Research into the Treatment of Eczema with Chinese Medicine
This page collates research into Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) for eczema (atopic dermatitis). Studies are grouped by type: foundational clinical trials, systematic reviews, mechanistic research, topical formulations, and further recent research.
RCHM Eczema Research Bibliography 2026
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Foundational Clinical Trials: The Zemaphyte Studies (1992–1997)
The Zemaphyte trials, conducted at Great Ormond Street Hospital and associated UK centres in the early 1990s, were the first rigorous clinical evidence for CHM in eczema and remain foundational to the field.
A controlled trial of traditional Chinese medicinal plants in widespread non-exudative atopic eczema: children — Sheehan & Atherton (1992)
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of 47 children (37 completing the full protocol). Active Zemaphyte treatment was significantly more effective than placebo across all primary measures. No haematological, renal or hepatic toxicity was detected. This was the first rigorous RCT evidence for CHM in childhood eczema, published in a leading peer-reviewed journal.
Efficacy of traditional Chinese herbal therapy in adult atopic dermatitis — Sheehan, Rustin, Atherton et al. (1992)
A double-blind, randomised crossover trial in adults with widespread atopic eczema using the same ten-herb Zemaphyte formula. Significant benefit of active treatment over placebo was demonstrated, with meaningful reductions in erythema, surface damage and itch. Publication in The Lancet placed CHM for eczema into the highest tier of the biomedical evidence base.
One-year follow-up of children treated with Chinese medicinal herbs for atopic eczema — Sheehan & Atherton (1994)
Extended follow-up of the 37 children who completed the original paediatric trial, offered continued CHM treatment over twelve months. Benefits were sustained over the follow-up period with no pattern of adverse events, and a number of children remained clear for extended periods after treatment ended. This was the first long-term outcome evidence for CHM in childhood eczema.
Follow-up of adult patients with atopic eczema treated with Chinese herbal therapy for 1 year — Sheehan, Stevens, Ostlere, Atherton, Brostoff & Rustin (1995)
A one-year naturalistic follow-up of adult participants from the original Lancet trial. Sustained benefit was confirmed in the adult cohort with acceptable safety over twelve months, strengthening the case that CHM produces durable benefit rather than merely acute symptom relief.
The efficacy of traditional Chinese herbal therapy in atopic eczema — Latchman, Whittle, Rustin, Atherton & Brostoff (1994)
An immunological review accompanying the main UK trials, confirming efficacy in patients recalcitrant to standard Western treatments. Characterised the ten-herb formula and its known pharmacological components. Directly addressed the conceptual challenge of a complex herbal mixture for a Western scientific audience, bridging traditional and pharmacological frameworks.
Modulation by Chinese herbal therapy of immune mechanisms in the skin of patients with atopic eczema — Xu, Banerjee, Rustin & Poulter (1997)
A mechanistic immunological study showing that CHM produced measurable modulation of immune mechanisms within the skin itself — not merely systemic effects — with specific immunological markers shifting in correlation with clinical improvement. This established that CHM's effects involve genuine immunological action at the site of disease rather than placebo or non-specific responses.
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Systematic Reviews and Evidence Summaries
Systematic reviews synthesise the totality of evidence from individual trials. The following reviews have collectively examined the CHM-for-eczema evidence base and provide a consistent picture of benefit with acceptable safety.
The treatment of eczema with Chinese herbs: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials — Armstrong & Ernst (1999)
The first formal systematic review of the field, published in a respected pharmacology journal. Confirmed that the Zemaphyte trials represented genuine positive evidence for CHM in eczema, and identified the need for larger, independently conducted trials to extend the evidence base.
Chinese herbal medicine for atopic eczema — Zhang, Leonard, Bath-Hextall et al. (2004/2005)
A Cochrane systematic review — the international gold standard for evidence synthesis. Four RCTs with 159 participants met inclusion criteria. In two of three placebo-controlled trials, Zemaphyte produced greater reductions in erythema and surface damage than placebo. Participants slept better, itched less and expressed a preference for the active treatment. No serious adverse events were recorded.
Effectiveness and safety of herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: an overview of systematic reviews — Kwon et al. (2020)
An overview of nine systematic reviews, re-synthesising original RCTs to assess overall efficacy and safety. Herbal medicine showed significantly better outcomes than placebo in total effective rate, itch scores, sleep quality and quality of life — both as a monotherapy and as an adjunct to conventional treatment, improving outcomes and reducing the dose of topical treatment needed.
Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: evidence from eight high-quality randomised placebo-controlled trials — Cai et al. (2022)
A meta-analysis of eight high-quality placebo-controlled RCTs including 662 patients. CHM produced clinically meaningful improvement in atopic dermatitis with low toxicity. Effects were attributed to anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and anti-angiogenic properties working through multiple mechanisms, including skin barrier restoration and immune regulation.-
Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for treating atopic dermatitis - Updated systematic review and meta-analysis (2023)
The most comprehensive quantitative synthesis to date: 17 RCTs involving 1,624 patients ranging from infants (8 months) to adults (38 years). CHM combined with modern medicine improved overall recovery rates and reduced recurrence rates. Positive effects were seen across the full age range from infancy to adulthood.
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Mechanistic Research: How CHM Works
The following studies address how CHM produces its effects, mapping its actions onto modern pharmacological and immunological understanding of eczema. A consistent finding is the convergence between traditional CHM diagnostic categories — heat, damp, wind, blood deficiency — and modern mechanisms: inflammation, immune dysregulation, barrier dysfunction and secondary infection.
Chinese Herbal Medicine and effective and safe treatment of atopic dermatitis — Yan, Li, Liu et al. (2020)
A ground-breaking comprehensive review exploring the vast number of biological mechanisms displayed by CHM in the safe and effective treatment of atopic dermatitis, a condition which affects up to 25% of children and 2–3% of adults. What truly sets this research apart is the exploration of the varied mechanisms of action in different Chinese Herbal Formulae, supporting the individuation of treatment based upon the experience of the person. CHM exerts anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects via multiple simultaneous pathways.
Chinese Herbal Medicine — a multiple mechanism model in the prevention of atopic dermatitis — Man, Hu & Elias (2019)
When researchers looked to define the active ingredient in a Chinese Herbal Formula for childhood eczema in the 1990s, they sought one key mechanism. Sadly this led to missed opportunities in helping children with severe skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. What research is increasingly finding is that Chinese Herbal Formulae possess multiple mechanisms. From researchers at a mainstream US academic dermatology centre (Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of California, San Francisco), this paper provides a definitive scientific rationale for the multi-mechanism model central to CHM: inhibiting cytokine and chemokine expression; reducing IgE production; suppressing inflammatory cell infiltration; blocking histamine release; and enhancing epidermal permeability barrier function. The Chinese Medical model has long recognised this multitude of mechanisms, observed in the context of a natural empiricism based upon knowable, clinically relevant signs and symptoms.
Chinese herbal medicine and their active ingredients in the treatment of atopic dermatitis-related signalling pathways — Nie, Fu, Zhang et al. (2025)
The most recent mechanistic review available. CHM and its active ingredients show both preventive and therapeutic potential in atopic dermatitis by modulating inflammatory response, orchestrating immune system functions and enhancing antioxidant activities. Specific signalling pathways are identified as targets. Demonstrates that mechanistic understanding of CHM is advancing rapidly alongside the clinical evidence base.
Selected traditional Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of atopic dermatitis: research progress on effect and mechanism of action — Zhang et al. (2025)
The most current overview of the field. CHM treatment of atopic dermatitis is characterised by targeting multiple pathways and targets simultaneously. Specific effects include regulation of inflammatory cytokines, gut microbiota and immune system function. The emerging gut-skin axis represents a new frontier for understanding CHM's systemic effects - an area where CHM's traditional emphasis on systemic treatment may prove particularly relevant.
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Topical CHM Formulations
Alongside oral herbal prescriptions, topical CHM preparations have been the subject of growing clinical research. The following studies focus on externally applied herbal treatments, including ointments and therapeutic bathing — both widely used approaches in CHM clinical practice.
Topical Chinese Herbal Medicine in the treatment of eczema — Lin, Chang, Yang et al. (2020)
Chinese Herbal Medicine is subject to ongoing research and investigation into its safety and efficacy. Although the one-size-fits-all approach taken in research does not match the diversity and complexity of a clinical practice based upon generations of natural empiricism, it provides a greater understanding which can be utilised in modern day practice. In this randomised, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial (48 participants aged 6–65), an ointment made using indigo naturalis (Lindioil, derived from Qingdai) was used twice daily for six weeks and found to be both safe and effective in the treatment of mild to severe atopic eczema. Indigo naturalis can come from Isatis tinctoria, commonly known as woad. The active group achieved a mean EASI reduction of 49.9% versus 19.6% in the placebo group — the first RCT to provide evidence for topical indigo-based CHM in atopic dermatitis.
Indigo naturalis oil extract (Lindioil ointment) versus tacrolimus for atopic dermatitis — Yang, Chen, Lu et al. (2025)
A prospective, randomised, crossover, evaluator-blinded trial directly comparing Lindioil ointment with tacrolimus 0.1% — a standard second-line conventional treatment — in 22 patients. Both treatments produced significant EASI reductions from baseline. Lindioil showed a statistically significant improvement with no treatment-related adverse events. This head-to-head comparison places CHM within the landscape of established treatments rather than as an alternative to them.
Chinese herbal bath for eczema: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 randomised controlled trials (2024)
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 RCTs examining the external application of CHM via therapeutic bathing — a widely used approach in CHM clinical practice. Chinese herbal bathing shows promise in treating eczema. The breadth of trials confirms substantial international interest in topical CHM approaches and demonstrates that delivery methods extend well beyond ointments.
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Further Recent Research
The following studies provide additional evidence across a range of CHM approaches to eczema treatment.
Efficacy and safety of Run Zao Zhi Yang capsule on chronic eczema — Huang et al. (2019)
A multiple-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study evaluating the Run Zao Zhi Yang capsule for chronic eczema.
Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in moderate-to-severe eczema in clinic and animal model: beyond corticosteroids — Srivastava et al. (2020)
A study examining the effects of TCM in moderate-to-severe eczema, exploring mechanisms beyond corticosteroid pathways in both clinical and animal model contexts.
Soshiho-Tang, a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms via Regulation of Inflammatory Mediators — Lee et al. (2019)
A study demonstrating that the traditional herbal formula Soshiho-Tang alleviates atopic dermatitis symptoms through regulation of inflammatory mediators.
Efficacy and safety of Qinzhuliangxue decoction for treating atopic eczema: a randomized controlled trial — Ma et al. (2020)
A randomised controlled trial examining the efficacy and safety of Qinzhuliangxue decoction for atopic eczema.
Yu-Ping-Feng-San ameliorates recurrent allergic inflammation of atopic dermatitis by repairing tight junction defects of the epithelial barrier — Zheng et al. (2019)
Research demonstrating that the classic formula Yu-Ping-Feng-San ameliorates recurrent allergic inflammation in atopic dermatitis by repairing tight junction defects in the epithelial barrier - a finding that maps directly onto CHM's traditional emphasis on restoring defensive qi and surface integrity.
Can We Treat Atopic Dermatitis without using Corticosteroids? — Huang (2019)
An exploration of treatment options for atopic dermatitis that do not rely on corticosteroids, examining the evidence for alternative approaches including herbal medicine.
Research collated by Alison Seymour & Martin John, and updated with additional bibliography from the RCHM Research Archive.
Chinese Herbal Medicine and IVF
More and more research is showing how using Chinese Herbal Medicine can improve treatment outcomes during IVF cycles. Here are some examples:
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Integrating Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine into Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of East Asian Traditional Medicine - Peng et al 2025
A new study by Peng et al (2025) evaluates the effectiveness and safety of women undergoing ART using acupuncture or herbal medicine compared to controls (sham or placebo). The overall quality of the evidence was classified as moderate quality evidence.
East Asian Traditional Medicine (EATM) acupuncture or herbal medicine was found to be safe, and an effective complementary therapy that can be used to improve assisted reproductive outcomes.
A retrospective cohort study of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treated with a Chinese Herbal Formula in conjunction with IVF - (Pan et al, 2022)
The study concluded that CHM may significantly increase the pregnancy rate through decreasing AMH levels in follicular fluids. The study additionally concluded that CHM is a safe intervention for PCOS patients undergoing IVF.
Link to study
Effects of Chinese herbs combined with in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation on infertility: a clinical randomized controlled trial - (Guo et al, 2014)
The study concluded that patients treated with CHM in conjunction with IVF showed improved embryo quality and fertility. The findings demonstrated the trial group had significantly increased endometrial thickness and increased implantation, thus improved conception rates in comparison to the control group.
Curative effect of assisted reproduction technology by Traditional Chinese Medicine multi-channel interventional therapy on 95 cases of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer failure - (Xia et al, 2017)
The study backs up findings of CHM IVF 4. CHM was given prior to IVF cycles where TCM pattern differentiation of Liver Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis, Kidney Deficiency were identified. The study demonstrated that CHM (alongside auricular acupuncture) in the 3 months prior to the IVF cycle significantly increased pregnancy rates as compared to IVF alone.
Effect of traditional Chinese comprehensive therapy on gestation in patients with previously failed in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer - (Xu at al, 2015)
The study evaluated the outcomes of CHM treatment in females where previous IVF cycles had failed. The CHM treatment was based on TCM pattern differentiation of Liver Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis, Kidney Deficiency. The study demonstrated that CHM in the 3 months prior to IVF cycle significantly increased pregnancy rates as compared to IVF alone.
The Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on Semi-Targeted Metabolomics to Improve IVF Outcomes in Senile Patients - (Ma et al, 2021)
The study examined the mechanisms and outcomes of cases of infertility in geriatric females (age over 35 years), based on a TCM pattern differentiation of Kidney Deficiency. The study showed that adjunctive treatment of IVF with a Chinese herbal formula significantly increased pregnancy rates in comparison with IVF alone.
Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine in the management of female infertility: a systematic review - (Reid & Stuart 2011)
The study suggests that management of female infertility with Chinese Herbal Medicine can improve pregnancy rates 2-fold within a 4 month period compared with Western Medical fertility drug therapy or IVF. Assessment of the quality of the menstrual cycle, integral to TCM diagnosis, appears to be fundamental to successful treatment of female infertility.
Research into COVID-19, SARS and Seasonal Influenza
The RCHM is keenly monitoring the research and reports of the use of Traditional Herbal Medicine in the fight against the current COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst many of these reports are encouraging, please be aware that resources regarding the treatment of Covid-19 are for informational purposes only. The RCHM does not recommend that practitioners claim to be treating or preventing Covid-19 at this stage.
Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia - National Health Commission & State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine on March 3, 2020 -
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Clinical characteristics and therapeutic procedure for four cases with 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia receiving combined Chinese and Western medicine treatment -
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Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Patients Infected with 2019-New Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2): A Review and Perspective. Yang, Y, et al. nt J Biol Sci 2020; 16(10):1708-1717. doi -
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Can Chinese Medicine Be Used for Prevention of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)? - A Review of Historical Classics, Research Evidence and Current Prevention Programs -
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Antiviral Action of Tryptanthrin Isolated from Strobilanthes cusia Leaf against Human Coronavirus NL63 -
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Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Patients Infected with 2019 - New Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2): A Review and Perspective -
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Traditional Chinese medicine for COVID-19 treatment -
Link to study
Asthma
Safety and Tolerability of an Antiasthma Herbal Formula (ASHMI™) in Adult Subjects with Asthma: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, Dose-Escalation Phase I Study
Complementary and alternative medicines are increasingly used for the treatment of asthma in Western countries. A novel three-herb antiasthma herbal medicine intervention (ASHMI™; Sino-Lion Pharmaceutical Company; Shan Dong China) was demonstrated to be effective and safe in a murine model of asthma and in a preliminary clinical study in China.
Urinary Tract Infections
Acute urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection that affects 40% to 50% of women. Between 20% and 30% of women who have had a UTI will experience a recurrence, and around 25% will develop ongoing recurrent episodes with implications for individual well-being and healthcare costs. Prophylactic antibiotics can prevent recurrent UTIs but there are growing concerns about microbial resistance and side effects from treatment. This review assesses Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of recurrent UTIs both as a stand-alone therapy and in conjunction with other pharmaceutical interventions.
