Acupuncture for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions worldwide, characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. It can cause physical discomfort, emotional distress, and impact quality of life. While conventional treatments like topical creams, biologic drugs, and phototherapy are widely used, acupuncture offers a natural and non-invasive alternative that complements these therapies and promotes overall skin health.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disorder where the turnover of skin cells is accelerated, leading to the development of inflamed, red patches with silvery scales. There are several types of psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis, the most common form, which presents as dry, raised, red patches covered with silvery scales. Guttate psoriasis often appears as small, drop-shaped lesions, typically triggered by infections like strep throat. Inverse psoriasis involves smooth, red patches that appear in skin folds, such as the underarms or groin. Pustular psoriasis is characterized by white pustules surrounded by red skin, and erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe form causing widespread redness and shedding of the skin in sheets.

The exact cause of psoriasis is unclear, but it is believed to be linked to genetic factors, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers like stress and infections. Acupuncture, grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), aims to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to psoriasis symptoms.

How Acupuncture Helps Manage Psoriasis

Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for psoriasis by targeting several key mechanisms that support skin health and overall well-being. First, acupuncture helps balance immune function, reducing the inflammation that triggers psoriasis flare-ups. It also enhances circulation, promoting the delivery of essential nutrients to the skin for regeneration. Since stress is a major trigger for psoriasis, acupuncture helps reduce stress and supports emotional balance. According to TCM, psoriasis is seen as an imbalance in the flow of Qi (energy), and acupuncture works to restore harmony and eliminate energy blockages. Additionally, acupuncture helps detoxify the body by eliminating toxins and clearing excess Heat, which is often associated with psoriasis flare-ups in TCM.

By addressing these factors, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to managing psoriasis that complements traditional treatments.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on Psoriasis

In TCM, skin conditions like psoriasis are viewed as the body's outward manifestation of internal imbalances. Common patterns of disharmony in psoriasis include Heat in the Blood, linked to inflammation, redness, and skin scaling, often triggered by emotional stress or poor dietary habits. Blood deficiency may cause dry, flaky skin and itchiness due to insufficient blood flow, hindering the skin's ability to stay hydrated and regenerate. Wind-Damp accumulation can contribute to itching and inflammation, exacerbating psoriasis symptoms. Liver Qi stagnation, caused by emotional stress or frustration, leads to stagnated Liver Qi, which results in heat buildup that aggravates psoriasis.

Acupuncture helps address these imbalances by targeting specific acupuncture points to restore internal harmony and support skin healing.

Acupuncture Points for Psoriasis Treatment

Acupuncture treatment for psoriasis is highly individualized, but several points are commonly used to help manage the condition. LI-11 (Pool at the Crook) is used to clear Heat and reduce inflammation, benefiting various skin conditions. SP-10 (Sea of Blood) improves blood circulation and helps cool Heat in the blood, nourishing the skin. GV-14 (Great Vertebra) strengthens the immune system and clears excess Heat from the body. ST-36 (Leg Three Mile) boosts energy, nourishes blood, and supports skin regeneration. PC-6 (Inner Pass) is a calming point that reduces stress and anxiety, which are known psoriasis triggers. BL-17 (Blood Shu) strengthens blood and promotes circulation to the skin, aiding in its healing.

These points, along with others tailored to an individual’s specific condition, help regulate energy flow and support the skin’s healing process.

Integrating Chinese Herbal Medicine with Acupuncture

Herbal medicine is often combined with acupuncture to enhance psoriasis treatment. Common Chinese herbal formulas used to support psoriasis treatment include Xiao Feng San, which clears Wind, Heat, and Dampness, making it effective for inflammatory skin conditions. Dang Gui Yin Zi nourishes blood and supports skin healing, while Si Wu Tang, a blood-tonifying formula, improves dry, flaky skin. Long Dan Xie Gan Tang clears excess Heat from the Liver, especially beneficial when emotional stress is a factor.

Chinese herbs, when prescribed by a licensed practitioner, work synergistically with acupuncture to promote skin health and address the root causes of psoriasis.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Psoriasis

In addition to acupuncture and herbal treatments, lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing psoriasis. Eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, omega-3-rich fish, and antioxidant-rich fruits, supports skin health. Avoiding common triggers like dairy or gluten may benefit some individuals. Managing stress is also important, and relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help alleviate emotional stress, which often exacerbates psoriasis. Gentle skin care with non-irritating products, regular moisturizing, and moderate, low-impact exercise (e.g., walking, swimming) can reduce stress and improve circulation, benefiting skin health.

How Long Does Acupuncture Treatment Take for Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition, and acupuncture treatment generally requires ongoing care. Most people begin to see improvements after 6-8 acupuncture treatments, with more noticeable results typically appearing after 3-6 months. To maintain results, regular treatments every 2-4 weeks may be recommended.

Take Control of Your Skin Health with Acupuncture

Psoriasis can be challenging to manage, but acupuncture provides a gentle and holistic way to support the body’s healing process. Whether you're looking to reduce flare-ups, manage stress, or improve your skin’s appearance, acupuncture offers a natural solution that can complement conventional psoriasis treatments.

Book your acupuncture session today to find a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.