Tineaaccording to TCM

*redirected from Skin tinea

Symptom family: Fungal Skin Infections

Parent symptom: Fungal Infection

Sub-symptom(s): Tinea Versicolor

What is Tinea?

Tinea, commonly referred to as ringworm, encompasses a group of fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes. These infections are characterized by their circular, ring-like rash that can appear on various parts of the body, including the scalp (tinea capitis), feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), and other areas (tinea corporis).

Tinea versicolor, though slightly different, falls under the broader category of tinea infections, showcasing symptoms like discolored patches on the skin. Effective management of tinea involves antifungal treatments and, importantly, understanding the environmental conditions that allow these fungi to thrive.

How does TCM view Tinea?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, tinea is seen through the lens of internal disharmony and external pathogenic factors, particularly Dampness, Heat, and Wind. TCM posits that an imbalance in the body's natural energy flow, or Qi, and the presence of Damp-Heat can create a conducive environment for fungal growth.

This holistic perspective underscores the importance of diagnosing the underlying pattern of disharmony to tailor the treatment effectively. By addressing both the symptoms and their root causes, TCM aims to restore balance and prevent recurrence.

Causes of Tinea According to TCM

TCM identifies the accumulation of Damp-Heat and the invasion of Wind-Damp as key factors in the development of tinea. These conditions result from the body's inability to maintain a harmonious balance, leading to the overgrowth of pathogenic elements.

For instance, environments that foster excessive moisture and warmth can exacerbate the imbalance of Damp-Heat within the body, providing an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections. By understanding these underlying causes, TCM practitioners can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the external symptoms of tinea and the internal conditions that contribute to its manifestation.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Tinea

To address tinea, TCM relies on a variety of herbs known for their ability to clear Heat, dry Dampness, and dispel Wind. Dittany Root Bark (Bai Xian Pi) and Sophora Roots (Ku Shen) are particularly effective in treating Damp-Heat, thanks to their bitter and cold properties. These herbs work to eliminate the excess moisture and warmth that fungi thrive in, reducing inflammation and itchiness.

Additionally, for external application, Realgar (Xiong Huang) and Sulfur (Liu Huang) are recommended for their capacity to treat Toxic Heat, further aiding in the eradication of fungal infections. Through the strategic use of these herbs, TCM offers a nuanced approach to combating tinea, focusing on restoring the body's natural equilibrium and enhancing its defense against pathogenic factors.

See more details below about Xiao Feng San, a herbal formula used to address tinea.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind

Acupoints for Tinea

See more details below about Yuzhong KID-26, an acupoint used to address tinea.

  • By Meridian
  • Kidney Channel
Yuzhong KID-26

Yuzhong KID-26

In the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

TCM Herbs for Tinea

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address tinea, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
  • Herbs that dispel wind and dampness
  • Herbs for external application
  • Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
  • Herbs that expel parasites
  • Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Purgative herbs that drain downward
  • Cathartic herbs that drain downward
  • Herbs that regulate qi
  • Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity

"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Dittany Root Bark (Bai Xian Pi) Not applicable
Sophora Roots (Ku Shen) Not applicable

"Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Honeycomb (Feng Fang) Not applicable
Garden Balsam Stems (Tou Gu Cao) Not applicable

"Herbs for external application" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Realgar (Xiong Huang) Not applicable
Sulfur (Liu Huang) Not applicable

"Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Chinese Honeylocust Abnormal Fruits (Zhu Ya Zao) Not applicable
Gleditsia Thorns (Zao Jiao Ci) Not applicable

"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Chinaberry Root Barks (Ku Lian Pi) Not applicable
Elm Seed Cakes (Wu Yi) Not applicable

"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie) Xiao Feng San
Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) Xiao Feng San

"Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for tinea

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Greater Burdock Fruits (Niu Bang Zi) Xiao Feng San
Cicada Sloughs (Chan Tui) Xiao Feng San