Long Dan Xie Gan Tang: A Classical Chinese Herbal Formula for Eczema Relief
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Commonly associated symptoms such as itching, redness, dryness, cracked skin or lesions and recurrent flare-ups can significantly impact quality of life.
While conventional treatments like topical steroids and antihistamines may provide temporary relief, long-term use can sometimes lead to side effects, dependence, or diminished effectiveness over time.
Chinese herbal medicine offers an alternative solution with sustainable results and fewer adverse effects, that can stand alone or be used in combination with western treatment interventions.
Understanding Eczema
Biomedical research identifies several contributing factors to eczema, including:
Skin inflammation
Abnormal Immune Function
Dysfunction of the Skin Barrier
Genetic and Endocrine Influences
What is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang?
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang is a classical herbal formula first recorded in the medical text Yī Fāng Jí Jiě by Wang Ang. The formula is traditionally used to clear excess heat and dampness from the Liver and Gallbladder systems; factors that can contribute to inflammation, itching and impairment of the skin barrier.
The formula contains ten herbs:
Long Dan Cao (Gentianae Radix)
Huang Qin (Scutellariae Radix)
Zhi Zi (Gardeniae Fructus)
Chai Hu (Bupleuri Radix)
Mu Tong (Akebiae Caulis)
Che Qian Zi (Plantaginis Semen)
Ze Xie (Alismatis Rhizoma)
Sheng Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix)
Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis Radix)
Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix)
*Modified version of LDXGT below
Chinese Medicine’s View of Eczema
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), eczema is commonly associated with patterns such as damp-heat, toxic heat, blood heat, and wind. The treatment principles behind Long Dan Xie Gan Tang include:
Clearing heat (inflammation)
Draining of dampness (for skin health)
Expelling wind (alleviating itching)
This combination aims to address both the visible symptoms on the skin and the underlying internal imbalance contributing to recurrent flare-ups.
Biomedical Research on LDXGT
Modern research has explored the potential immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.
Studies suggest the formula may:
Improve CD4+ T-cell proportion while reducing CD8+ T-cell proportion, which balances immune system reactivity
Provide anti-inflammatory activity
Support antioxidant and free-radical scavenging in the body
What the Research Says
A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated 14 randomized controlled trials involving 1,080 patients with eczema.
The experimental groups received Long Dan Xie Gan Tang alone or in combination with western medicine
Control groups received western medicine only, including medications such as cetirizine, loratadine, ebastine, and azelastine
Treatment duration ranged from 10 to 21 days
The analysis found that treatment with Long Dan Xie Gan Tang alone or combined with western medicine demonstrated greater clinical efficacy compared to western medicine alone in the treatment of eczema.
Important Considerations
Eczema varies from patient to patient, and in Chinese medicine, herbal formulas are traditionally prescribed based on an individual’s pattern presentation rather than solely on a biomedical diagnosis.
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang may not be appropriate for every case. Proper evaluation by a licensed practitioner trained in Chinese herbal medicine is important before beginning treatment.
Looking for a more personalized approach to eczema treatment?
Schedule an appointment at my Manhattan-based clinic, or virtually, to receive an individualized herbal treatment plan based on your skin’s needs.
Hu, Z., Gao, L., Li, C., Cucco, A., Wang, S., Yuan, W., Zhang, F., Kang, S., & Wang, M. (2021). Efficacy of Longdan Xiegan Decoction on the Treatment of Eczema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2021, 8836117. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/8836117
Scheid, V., & Bensky, D. (2015). Chinese herbal medicine. formulas & strategies. Eastland Press.
Xu, Y., & Sumei, Y. (2004). Dermatology in traditional chinese medicine. Donica Pub.
Continue learning how Chinese medicine approaches eczema:
Best Chinese Herbs for Eczema Itching
Acupuncture for Eczema: How It Relieves Itching, Inflammation & Flare-Ups
