Lupus Erythematosus and its Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Lupus erythematosus is a relatively common disease, with systemic lupus erythematosus being a typical form. This disease often occurs in young women and poses a significant threat to their health. Early symptoms may not be obvious, but during the acute stage of the disease, patients often experience various symptoms. In terms of treatment, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has proven to be quite effective. Below, we will briefly discuss how lupus erythematosus is treated using TCM.

1. Heat Toxicity and Excess Type

This type is seen during the acute and subacute stages of lupus erythematosus. The treatment aims to cool the blood and clear heat-toxicity. Formulas such as Yunu Jian, Compound Houttuynia and Wormwood Decoction, Huaban Jiedu Decoction, and Qingwen Baidu Decoction may be prescribed with modifications based on the individual's condition. For patients with high fever, delirium, and incoherent speech, additional medications like Zixue Dan and Angong Niuhuang Pill may be administered.

2. Kidney Yin Deficiency and Yin Deficiency with Excess Yang Type

This type is commonly observed during the acute and subacute mild kidney damage activity stages of lupus erythematosus. The treatment focuses on nourishing the kidney and Yin, and clearing heat. Formulas such as Compound Houttuynia and Motherwort Decoction, combined with Qiju Dihuang Decoction, Erzhi Pill, or Yunu Jian, may be prescribed with modifications.

3. Liver Depression and Blood Stasis Type

This type is seen during the subacute mild activity stage of lupus erythematosus. The treatment aims to soothe the liver, regulate Qi, and promote blood circulation to remove blood stasis. Formulas like Danzhi Xiaoyao San or Chaihu Shugan Yin may be prescribed with modifications. For patients with additional symptoms of spleen Yang deficiency, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, bowel sounds, pale tongue, and thin pulse, modifications using Fuguilizhong Decoction may be made.

4. Qi and Yin Deficiency with Heart Yin Loss Type

This type is commonly observed in the later stages of lupus erythematosus when the fever has subsided. The treatment aims to nourish the heart, calm the spirit, and tonify Qi and Yin. Formulas such as Shengmaisan, Sanjia Fumai Tang, and Buzhong Yiqi Tang may be prescribed with modifications.

5. Yin and Yang Deficiency with Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency Type

This type is often seen in lupus erythematosus patients with kidney damage, nephrotic syndrome, and those undergoing long-term hormone treatment or accompanied by Raynaud's phenomenon. The treatment aims to warm and tonify the spleen and kidney. Formulas like Shenqi Wan, Shenfu Tang, or Compound Houttuynia and Motherwort Decoction may be prescribed with modifications.