Moxibustion

 

Moxibustion (applying heat near the skin) is a method of heating specific acupuncture points on the body by burning an herb material close to the skin. This technique can be used alone or in combination with acupuncture – the Chinese character for acupuncture means “acupuncture-moxibustion.”

 

What is moxa made of?

 

The herb material used is mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris, Ai Ye) an invasive weed, which grows in many climates. Mugwort has a long history of use in folk medicine. It is believed that the Romans planted mugwort by roadsides to make it available to travelers to put in their shoes to relieve aching feet and protect them from exhaustion.

Mugwort gets its botanical name from the Greek moon goddess Artemis, a patron of women, and is a wonderful herb for gynecological conditions. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and uterine bleeding and to increase blood circulation to the pelvic area to treat menstrual pain. Moxibustion has successfully been used to turn breech babies into a normal head-down position before childbirth.

 

What is moxibustion used for?

 

Moxibustion can be used to prevent diseases and maintain health as part of tonification treatments to help strengthen the organs and immune system. It warms the meridians and expels cold. It can be used to promote circulation over areas of chronic pain or muscle tension. It is especially used for pain that is worse with exposure to cold or damp weather, as with some types of arthritis pain. When applied to acupuncture points that strengthen and lift the Qi, moxibustion can boost the immune system and help with fatigue, digestive issues, and much more.

 

What else do people use it for?

 

Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation

Menstrual cramps

Pain, including pain from arthritis, joint or muscle pain, and chronic pain

Cancer-related nausea

Urinary incontinence

Asthma symptoms

Eczema

Fatigue

Cold and flu prevention