In Chinese medicine, everyone’s case of dyshidrotic (or pompholyx) eczema is unique. Chinese herbal treatment focuses on the underlying “patterns of disharmony” associated with each individual’s eczema of the hands and feet.

How can you tell what patterns I have?

First, Antonia closely examines your hands and/or feet (as well as feet or other areas that may be affected).  She takes photos of the lesions during each visit in order to keep track of how things are changing. The look of the skin and lesions give us lots of information about what is going on internally.

To assess the “pattern of imbalance” Antonia will look at the cycle of the skin lesions. Is there a phase with fluid-filled bumps followed by a phase with dry, thickened skin? Or are both occurring together (or just one)? Are the hands and feet affected or just the hands? Have the lesions spread up the arms or further? Are the hands and feet sweaty? Is there itching? Each of these scenarios requires specific herbs to be included in a formula according to Chinese medicine.

Antonia also determines what inner imbalances led to the lesions expressing in the first place. What other symptoms do you have? Are there digestive symptoms like constipation or loose stools? Is stress a factor? Are you tired? How quickly are new lesions forming?

Chinese Herbal Formulas for Dyshidrotic Eczema

Once she identifies the patterns of disharmony, Antonia puts together a custom herbal formula. There are multiple ingredients in each person’s herbal formula to address each of these patterns. The ingredients in the formula change over time as the skin evolves and heals.

Antonia also recommends the best topical treatment (which may come in the form of an herb wash, salve, or cream) as well as beneficial foods and foods to avoid. She will also provide instructions for taking care of the hands on a day-to-day basis.