Acne / Pimples in Acupuncture
Acne /pimples is a chronic inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands which commonly occurs during adolescence. The occurrence of the acne or pimples is related to gonad endocrine function of the body. The chronic recurrent inflammation happens in the hair follicles and in the sebaceous gland. Sometimes acne or pimples also develop into blackhead, cysts, and nodules.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the pathogenesis of acne or pimples are either by exogenous wind-heat invading the lungs or by overindulgence in spicy or greasy food, resulting in accumulation of heat in the stomach and intestine which create discord between qi and blood and give rise to acne or pimples.
TCM adopts the principle of syndrome differentiation and treatment. Acupuncture is a unique method of treating diseases; it can treat disease through the stimulation of meridian and acupoints.
Acupuncture can play important role in the pathophysiology of acne or pimples:
- Acupuncture promotes the reduction of chronic inflammation, which can assist in destroying the diseased tissue and stimulate the healing process.
- Acupuncture can change the microcirculation near the acne or pimples area which directly effects on healings.
- Acupuncture can directly destroy sebaceous gland cells, reduce excessive secretion of sebum, and change the living environment of microorganisms.
- Acupuncture creates a pathway for the discharge of inflammatory substances, thereby promoting the reduction of inflammation and accelerating local blood circulation.
- It can improve the body’s lymphatic system that can improve the condition.
Acne / Pimple in Ayurveda:
Ayurveda looks at acne and pimples issues in a holistically way. Instead of treating only the acne issue, Ayurvedic treatment for acne goes to the root cause of the problem.
Ayurveda has many several natural approaches that may help control acne or pimples.
It is the most common problem in adolescents, therefore known as Yauvanapidika in Ayurveda. Yauvan means ‘adolescence’ and pidika means ‘pustules or papules’. Acne usually affects the face, back and shoulders and other areas that are densely populated with sebaceous glands. Acne presents either as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or nodules.
Causes
The primary cause is impairment of Agni (Digestive fire) which leads to imbalance of all the three doshas, primarily the Pitta dosha, which further vitiates the rakta and meda dhatus (blood and fat tissues). Vitiated doshas produce toxins that block the Srotas (microscopic channels) of the affected areas leading to pimple formation. The condition of acne can also be aggravated by excessive intake of oily, spicy, salty, and sour foods, constipation, and irritable bowel movements. More oil on scalp can lead to acne and pimples.
Following diet & lifestyle modification can ease the acne or pimples problems:
- Avoid spicy, oily, and sour foods
- Eat more of fresh fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed food
- Increase the use of herbs that have cooling effects on the body like fennel, Black Grapes, Aavla, Guduchi and aloe vera.
- Increase intake of water to about 2-3 litres per day
- Manage constipation with high fibre diet.
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, and avoid irritant cosmetic
- Do not touch frequently or squeeze the acne lesions
Treatment
It is advisable to consult a qualified Ayurveda Doctor or Practitioner for better diagnosis and treatment based on your body constitution in Ayurvedic way.
Dr Kusum Lata is a Registered Acupuncturist and Qualified professional Ayurvedic Doctor. At AcuAyur Holistic Health Centre, issues with acne or pimple can be addressed by Acupuncture, Ayurvedic Medicine and Ayurvedic detox (Panchkarma) treatments according to need and preference.
If you think these time-tested traditional medicines can make a difference in your health and wellbeing, or would like further information, then please call (03) 9803 8718 or write email on info@acuayur.com.au
