Guidelines on the Management of Atopic Dermatitis ... - Dermatology

D. Other complementary therapies without proven efficacy
Acupuncture, 21 bioresonance treatment, 22 balneotherapy, cleansing of the colon with
enemas, massage therapy, 23 autologous blood therapy, 24 Reiki 25 and topical Streptococcal
application 26 fall in this group. Sublingual immunotherapy has shown some promising
provisional results in respiratory allergies, but no evidence exists for efficacy in dermatitis. 27
Interactions between herbs and conventional medicine
Herbs and other complimentary medications can interact with conventional medication:
Evening primrose oil (gamma-linolenic acid) can reduce efficacy of anticonvulsant
drugs in epilepsy
CHM can induce hepatitis 28
CHM can potentiate the hepatotoxicity of methotrexate 28
Complementary and alternative allergy tests
The following tests have no scientific foundation or proof of validity. 39 These include:
The leucocytotoxic test
The IgG ELISA allergy test
Applied kinesiology
Electrodermal testing
Hair analysis
Auriculocardiac reflex
Nampudripad‟s allergy elimination technique
Live blood analysis
Stool analysis and microscopy for yeasts and parasites
Table 9: Advice to patients regarding complementary medicines as treatment for
atopic dermatitis
The safety and efficacy of therapies such as herbal medicine, homeopathy,
massage and food supplements for atopic dermatitis have not been adequately
investigated in clinical trials.
They should be cautious with the use of herbal medicines in children.
Topical corticosteroids are sometimes illegally added to some herbal medications
intended for use in atopic dermatitis.
Liver toxicity can occur with the use of some Chinese herbal medicines.
Emollient treatment should continue, even when complementary therapies are
being used.
Regular massage with emollients may improve the dermatitis.
Healthcare professionals should be informed if they are using complementary
therapies.
References