What are the symptoms of LS?

The symptoms of lichen scerlosus includes:

• itching
• pain with intercourse
• unusual swelling with pain
• pain with urination
• tearing or bleeding of the genitals in affected spots
• smooth white patches on affected skin

If this condition is untreated, in some cases, it can lead to vulvar cancer.

Treatment for LS

In western medicine, the first line of treatment is using corticosteroid cream regularly on the tissue. This treatment can be beneficial in controlling the symptoms. However, it also comes with risks including but not limited to further thinning of vaginal tissues and more discomfort.

Acupuncture, Chinese herbs and essential oils for treating LS

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), LS occurs due to:

1. Damp-heat accumulating in the lower burner (lower torso). It causes skin redness, itchiness, and pain.
2. Blood deficiency and poor blood circulation creating thinning tissues, dryness, and white patches on the skin.
3. Imbalance of the liver, spleen, and kidney leads to immune system disorder, which causes an autoimmune reaction on genital tissues.

Based on those diagnoses, acupuncture and herbal treatment will focus on removing damp-heat, balancing the immune system, detoxifying liver heat, regulating stomach qi and strengthening spleen/kidney qi. Finally, tonify the blood, and improve blood circulation to nourish the skin tissues.

Acupuncture can regulate and strengthen the body’s organ functions, and adjust and balance the immune system. Acupuncture also can help relax the mind and reduce stress. It is a powerful tool for treating autoimmune disorder, which is at the core of treating LS.

I also use a special point that I call “derma point” for women who suffer from severe itchiness. The results are immediate freedom from itching, and it will help white patches fade away faster.

Chinese herbs play an important role in treating LS. The herbs can be consumed by making a tonic with the herbs or the patient can take herbal pills. Please make sure to visit the herbalist before taking herbs for accuracy and safety. Essential oils are also an effective topical treatment that I highly recommend for the treatment of LS.

Since LS is an autoimmune reaction (self- attack) that causes skin problems, the healing time requires at least 4 to 6 months. Please allow your body to have this recovery opportunity.

Dietary advice for LS

A healthy lifestyle and healthy diet plan has a positive impact on healing LS. Avoid smoking, consuming alcohol, heavy tea, coffee, seafood and very spicy food. Avoid deep-fried, greasy, and very sweet food as well as dairy products in which will make our body produce dampness and mucus. Eat more vegetables and foods that benefit the liver by removing dampness and mucus. Please reference my other two articles about healthy diet including why we need to cook vegetables and what is candida.

We will work together to help you overcome LS and have a better quality of life. Please do not hesitate to contact me when you need help. I am looking forward to working for you.

Here is a review from a patient who had LS that I treated:
“Dr Liang worked diligently with me on bringing my migraines under control, so of course I trusted her to help me bring the symptoms of my lichen schlerosis under control as well. She is more than a doctor; she is a human being who truly cares about the health and wellness of her patients. Dr Liang researched the disease, and worked with me to create an acupuncture / herbal combination / essential topical oil regimen that, along with the AIP diet, brought my symptoms under control. I am so grateful for all the care and time and energy she put into my particular health issue. I am healthier and happier thanks to her!”
Adèle Saint-Pierre

The review and others can be read on Google by clicking here:

To make an appointment to see Dr. Liang, please call (212) 779-0468 or click here to fill out our appointment form.