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Scaldaccording to TCM

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Symptom family: Burns and Scalds

Parent symptom: Skin Burns

What is Scald?

A scald is a type of burn injury that results from exposure to hot liquids or steam. It can vary in severity, affecting only the outer layer of skin or penetrating deeper tissues. Scalds are characterized by reddened, blistered skin and can be quite painful.

They are often domestic accidents, typically occurring in the kitchen or bathroom, and require immediate first aid to minimize tissue damage and reduce the risk of complications like infections.

How does TCM view Scald?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches scalds as an imbalance caused by excessive Heat invading the skin and flesh. This Heat can disrupt the flow of Qi and Blood, leading to pain, swelling, and blisters.

TCM aims to clear the Heat, nourish the skin, and restore the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood to the affected area. Treatment strategies involve a combination of internal and external remedies to address both the symptoms and the underlying imbalance.

Causes of Scald According to TCM

In TCM, scald injuries are primarily caused by an imbalance of Heat affecting the skin and underlying tissues. This Heat can be of an Excess type, overwhelming the body's defenses and leading to the immediate symptoms of redness, pain, and blisters.

On a deeper level, a deficiency in the body's Yin can leave the skin vulnerable to damage, unable to protect itself against the penetrating Heat. Both Excess Heat and Yin Deficiency require different therapeutic approaches in TCM to restore balance and promote healing.

TCM Herbs for Scald

For the treatment of scalds, TCM recommends herbs that can invigorate the Blood, cool the Blood, and nourish Yin to heal the damaged tissues and alleviate pain. Bushy Knotweed Rhizomes (Hu Zhang) is often prescribed for its ability to address Blood Stagnation and clear Phlegm Heat, while Chicken Egg Yolks (Ji Zi Huang) are utilized to nourish Yin and Blood Deficiencies.

Additionally, Hibiscus Leaves (Fu Rong Ye) may be used for their cooling properties, helping to clear Toxic Heat and Damp-Heat. The choice and combination of herbs are tailored to the individual's unique pattern of imbalance and symptom presentation.

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
  • Herbs that cool the blood

Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency

Scald can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.

One such herb is Chicken Egg Yolks (Ji Zi Huang), which is directly recommended for scald.

Herbs that cool the Blood

Scald can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.

One such herb is Hibiscus Leaves (Fu Rong Ye), which is directly recommended for scald.