Folliculitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different folliculitis patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Folliculitis is a common skin condition where hair follicles become inflamed and infected, often appearing as small, red, pus-filled bumps. It can be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection and is frequently seen in areas prone to friction or sweating.
Folliculitis can affect any part of the body with hair, including the scalp, legs, and underarms. While it's generally mild and self-resolving, severe or recurring cases may require medical attention. Understanding its causes and treatment options is crucial for managing this often uncomfortable condition.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches folliculitis differently than Western medicine, focusing on internal disharmony that manifests as skin problems. TCM believes that skin conditions like folliculitis are external symptoms of an imbalance in the body’s Qi (vital energy), Blood, and Bodily Fluids.
Factors like Heat, Dampness, and Toxins are often implicated in TCM diagnoses. Treatment in TCM aims to correct these imbalances, often using a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary modifications, offering a holistic approach to healing and prevention.
TCM Patterns for Folliculitis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause folliculitis
Blood Stagnation with Heat
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Folliculitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address folliculitis