Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Trigger Chronic Urticaria Flare-Ups?

Q: Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Trigger Chronic Urticaria Flare-Ups?

Hello Youzi： Based on your description, after drinking a can of Siwu, your urticaria recurred. <br>Coupled with your later description of feeling very hot recently, it is very likely that the Siwu caused your urticaria. <br>Siwu Decoction is associated with blood deficiency; howe

Chronic urticaria

I previously had chronic urticaria, and it hasn't recurred for a while.
However, after drinking a can of Si Wu, I suddenly started itching again.
Is there a connection between these two? Recently, I've been feeling very irritable, and I wake up in the morning with dry mouth and two sores in my mouth.

Youzi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/21

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello Youzi: Based on your description, after drinking a can of Siwu, your urticaria recurred.
Coupled with your later description of feeling very hot recently, it is very likely that the Siwu caused your urticaria.
Siwu Decoction is associated with blood deficiency; however, you are currently experiencing a condition of heat (or dryness), and consuming Siwu Decoction may exacerbate the heat, potentially triggering your chronic urticaria.
As the weather begins to cool and the dryness of autumn sets in, I recommend consuming some cooling and moistening foods to improve your constitution.
However, for more detailed advice, it may be necessary to consult a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for a more accurate assessment (such as determining whether your urticaria is due to heat, dryness, dampness, deficiency, or other food triggers, which requires further inquiry and diagnosis).
This is provided for your reference.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2012/09/21

More Info

Chronic urticaria, commonly known as chronic hives, can be a perplexing condition for many individuals. It is characterized by the recurrent appearance of itchy welts or hives on the skin, which can be triggered by various factors, including stress, allergens, and even certain foods or medications. In your case, you mentioned experiencing a flare-up after consuming a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation known as Si Wu Tang (四物湯), which is traditionally used for nourishing blood and regulating menstruation.

The relationship between TCM and chronic urticaria is complex. While TCM is often viewed as a holistic approach to health, it is essential to recognize that individual responses to herbal remedies can vary significantly. Some individuals may experience adverse reactions to specific herbs or formulations, particularly if they have underlying sensitivities or allergies. In your situation, it is plausible that the Si Wu Tang could have triggered your chronic urticaria flare-up, especially if your body is reacting to one of its components.

Moreover, you mentioned feeling an increase in "heat" in your body, which is a common concept in TCM. In TCM, symptoms such as dry mouth, mouth ulcers, and skin irritations can be associated with "excess heat." If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may indicate an imbalance in your body's internal environment. The consumption of certain TCM formulations, particularly those that are warming or tonifying, could exacerbate this condition if your body is already in a state of excess heat.

It is crucial to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can assess your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations. They may suggest alternative herbal formulations that are more suitable for your current state, focusing on cooling and detoxifying properties to alleviate the symptoms of chronic urticaria. Additionally, they can help identify any potential triggers in your diet or lifestyle that may contribute to flare-ups.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food and symptom diary to track any correlations between your diet, herbal consumption, and the occurrence of hives. This can provide valuable insights into what may be triggering your symptoms. Staying hydrated, managing stress, and avoiding known allergens are also essential steps in managing chronic urticaria.

In summary, while TCM can offer beneficial treatments for various conditions, including chronic urticaria, it is essential to approach it with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Individual responses to herbal remedies can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you suspect that Si Wu Tang or any other TCM formulation is contributing to your flare-ups, it is advisable to discontinue use and seek professional advice.

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