Managing Skin Allergies: Natural Remedies for Food Sensitivities

Skin allergy

I have a friend from abroad who had skin allergies at the age of 4-5, but it disappeared after he turned 6.
Recently, at the age of 45, the allergies have resurfaced, particularly triggered by eating beef, lamb, shrimp, and crab.
Since he is a Muslim and does not consume pork, he cannot determine if pork would also cause an allergic reaction.
Only certain fish (such as cod and swordfish) and chicken do not trigger his allergies.
However, due to work requirements, he frequently travels abroad, where some cuisines may include shrimp oil or beef fat as ingredients, leading to allergic reactions again.
As a result, he often needs to prepare Western medications to alleviate the itching caused by the allergies.
Therefore, he has asked me to help find out if there are any traditional Chinese medicines that could treat this type of allergy so that he would not need to rely on Western medications in the future.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter.
Liu Shenghan, November 23, 2000.

Mike Liu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/24

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Based on your description, it is possible that you have urticaria.
Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes differential diagnosis and treatment, which can generally be categorized into two main types: wind-heat and wind-cold, and further classified based on the principles of yin-yang and the conditions of cold-heat and deficiency-excess.
It is recommended that you consult a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Reply Date: 2000/11/24

More Info

Managing skin allergies, particularly those triggered by food sensitivities, can be a complex issue, especially for individuals with a history of allergic reactions. Your friend's situation is not uncommon; food allergies can develop or re-emerge at any age, and the symptoms can vary widely.
In your friend's case, it appears that he has developed sensitivities to certain types of meat and seafood, which can lead to skin reactions such as rashes, itching, and inflammation. The fact that he has experienced these symptoms after consuming beef, lamb, shrimp, and crab suggests that he may have specific IgE-mediated allergies to these foods. It is also important to note that food allergies can sometimes be cross-reactive, meaning that if someone is allergic to one type of food, they may also react to similar foods.

For managing these allergies, it is crucial for your friend to avoid the foods that trigger his symptoms. This includes being vigilant about food labels and asking about ingredients when dining out, especially in foreign countries where he may not be familiar with the local cuisine. Since he is a Muslim and does not consume pork, he should also be aware that some dishes may contain hidden pork products or derivatives.

In terms of natural remedies, while there is no definitive cure for food allergies, some strategies may help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of reactions:
1. Dietary Management: Keeping a detailed food diary can help identify specific triggers. This diary should include everything consumed, along with any symptoms experienced afterward. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and recommending appropriate dietary changes.

2. Natural Anti-Inflammatories: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts) can help reduce inflammation. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial when incorporated into the diet.

3. Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics can help improve gut health and may play a role in modulating the immune response. Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods can be beneficial.

4. Herbal Remedies: Certain herbs, such as nettle and chamomile, have been traditionally used to alleviate allergic symptoms. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen, as some herbs can interact with medications or may not be suitable for everyone.

5. Topical Treatments: For skin reactions, natural topical treatments such as aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or calendula cream can soothe irritated skin. These remedies can provide relief from itching and help with skin healing.

6. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate allergic reactions, so practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can be beneficial for overall well-being.

7. Consultation with Specialists: It is advisable for your friend to consult with an allergist or a dermatologist who specializes in food allergies. They can provide tailored advice, potential skin testing, and possibly prescribe medications that can help manage symptoms more effectively.

While your friend is looking for alternatives to Western medications, it is important to remember that some allergies can be severe and even life-threatening. Therefore, he should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (if prescribed) and be prepared to use it in case of an anaphylactic reaction.
In conclusion, while natural remedies can support the management of food allergies, they should not replace conventional medical treatment, especially in cases of severe allergies. A comprehensive approach that includes dietary management, natural remedies, and professional medical advice will be the best strategy for your friend to manage his skin allergies effectively.

Similar Q&A

Managing Skin Allergies: Herbal Remedies and Dietary Tips for Relief

Hello Director Shi, Seven years ago, I discovered that my skin develops rashes with blisters after sun exposure, and the affected area increases the more I scratch it. After consulting with a physician, there was no specific diagnosis, only that it is a skin allergy. The doctor ...

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Hello, Xiao Zhu! If you are sensitive to light, in addition to consulting a dermatologist or an allergist, you can also consider using traditional Chinese medicine for treatment. However, it is important to seek a qualified TCM practitioner to ensure safety, and avoid taking unve...

Essential Foods for Managing Allergies and Skin Conditions

I have been experiencing allergies to an increasing number of foods and have had skin allergies for many years, along with noticeable lymphadenopathy. What types of foods should I eat? Thank you.

Dr. Xie Peiru reply Nutrition
Hello: There are many reasons for allergies, such as individual constitution, environment, stress, and food, among others. It is recommended to undergo allergy testing to clarify the specific allergens, which can help narrow down the prevention measures. Common food allergens inc...

Managing Hives: Foods to Avoid and Key Tips for Relief

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, can be triggered by various factors, including certain foods. It is advisable to avoid the following types of foods if you are experiencing frequent hives: 1. Shellfish: Such as shrimp, crab, and lobster. 2. Nuts: Particularly peanuts ...

Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is an allergic skin condition that is a personal physiological response. According to Dr. Chiu Chia-Yu from the Dermatology Department of National Taiwan University, the causes of urticaria are typically associated with type I hypersensi...

Dietary Tips for Managing Eczema: Foods to Avoid and Embrace

I would like to ask the doctor about dietary restrictions for atopic dermatitis and what foods can effectively help improve the condition!

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: It is generally not recommended to consume alcoholic beverages or foods, spicy flavors, or traditional Chinese medicinal dishes such as ginger duck or rice wine chicken when the skin is in an inflammatory state. These may help alleviate the condition. Some patients have re...