AIMS:

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.