Traditional Chinese Medicine Parenting: Question 2 What should be done when a child has a skin allergy?
Traditional Chinese Medicine Parenting: Question 2 What should be done when a child has a skin allergy?
Answer: Since ancient times, illnesses have been categorized based on their location as either internal or external conditions. Skin-related issues are one of the external symptoms. However, there has never been a disease specifically called "skin allergy" in traditional medicine. The term "allergy" is a concept created by Western medicine when it cannot explain persistent conditions like itching and dampness on the skin that are difficult to treat.
As the saying goes, "What manifests externally must have an internal cause." The appearance of dampness and itching on the skin is generally due to two possible reasons.
Natural Immunity Development: It is normal for children to develop rashes and pimples, which are crucial steps in forming natural immunity. However, with the frequent use of antibiotics and vaccines, many children no longer develop these. As a result, the toxins remain trapped inside the body. When the child has enough vital energy, the body tries to expel these toxins but cannot do so effectively, leading to what is termed as "skin allergy."
Sweating and Wind Exposure: This refers to the condition known as eczema, which can occur when a child sweats and is then exposed to wind. In both cases, it is essential to help the child's body expel what it needs to.
General Treatment: For example, for a child weighing 20 pounds, here is a suggested herbal remedy (this formula may not be perfect for every child's condition, but it generally aims to induce mild sweating and draw the issue to the surface without causing significant problems). Adjust the dosage proportionally based on the child's weight:
Chai Hu (Bupleurum) 10g
Ge Gen (Kudzu Root) 10g
Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) 7g
Chi Shao (Red Peony Root) 7g
Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-Fried Licorice) 5g
Da Zao (Jujube) 5g
Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger) 7g
Boil these herbs in three bowls of water until it reduces to one bowl. Have the child drink this in three doses, with one dose every four hour.