Forum: Make reference to TCM in new study on eczema

I refer to the article “National Skin Centre gets $10m grant to study eczema, reduce rates of severe disease in Singapore” (June 25).

Eczema, though not life-threatening, is a common chronic disease that can be long-irritating. I am a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) of 15 years and have seen cases of eczema affecting young and old being successfully dealt with by the use of acupuncture and herbal medicine.

These patients generally had taken steroids, among other means, to suppress the inflammatory skin conditions before resorting to TCM treatment.

From the TCM perspective, inflammation, redness and irritation of the skin are signs of excessive heat in one’s body.

Overwhelming bodily heat is generated by poor sleep and a bad diet. Spices, fried and barbecued food, nuts, beer, cocoa drinks and chocolates that are commonly consumed can induce heatiness.

Consuming these foods and drinks therefore could be considered as adding “fuel” to the already massive “fire” in the body, making the inflammatory conditions persist, if not worsen. A good night’s sleep and a strict diet are essential in the fight against eczema.

Now that the National Skin Centre is embarking on a new study, the team should also make reference to TCM to see how it manages to deal successfully with a chronic health issue which continues to trouble a considerable portion of the population.

Yong Siong Hock