The treatment of eczema with Chinese herbs: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.
OBJECTIVE
Chinese herbal treatments are being promoted as a treatment for eczema. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence for or against this notion.


METHODS
Extensive literature searches were carried out to identify all randomised clinical trials on the subject. Data were extracted from these in a predefined standardized fashion.


RESULTS
Only two randomized clinical trials were located. Both imply that a complex mixture of Chinese herbs is more effective than placebo in treating eczema. Yet several caveats exist, most importantly the lack of independent replication. Adverse effects have also been reported.


CONCLUSIONS
At present it is unclear whether Chinese herbal treatments of eczema do more good than harm.
Department of Complementary Medicine, School of Postgraduate Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT.
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Armstrong
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Ernst
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004485:Eczema / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal