In Chinese medicine, asthma is seen as a disruption of energy by too much phlegm production, which can be brought about by a variety of factors, but is often due to a weakness of the kidneys, lungs and spleen. Phlegm in traditional Chinese medicine refers to disharmony in the body fluids which can block both physical and emotional functions. It is not the same as phlegm in the western sense.
The practitioner may prescribe a kidney, lung or spleen tonic. Ephedrine and bitter almond seed help stop wheezing. Too much phlegm can also be caused by a poor diet with too many sticky foods, such as chocolate, cheese, milk and other dairy products. Eating irregularly also increases phlegm production. Having a big meal before you go to bed, for instance, prevents your digestive system from working properly and skipping meals will weaken your stomach.
The eczema condition is associated with the lungs, stomach, heart and blood. According the Chinese medicine practitioners there are various types of eczema. One is where the skin is itchy, hot and weeping; another is caused by heat in the blood, and your skin is dry, red and itchy. A third kind is caused by wind, and the skin erupts into blisters. The treatment is tailored according to which kind of eczema you have.
Oriental wormwood or Chinese gentian and peony root are used for the type caused by wind. In this type of medicine, anxiety is often seen as an imbalance of the spleen and liver. Chinese angelica and ginseng may be used to strengthen the spleen and move energy through the liver. Chinese herbal remedies are made up to formulas prescribed by practitioners to suit the individual needs of each patient.