Moxibustion

One of the most effective Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques is Moxibustion. This technique utilizes the burning of a spongy herb called mugwort to assist in the healing process. This Chinese medicine technique has been in use for thousands of years throughout Asia. The main aim of moxibustion is strengthening the blood, maintaining general health and stimulating the flow of qi.

There are two different methods of moxibustion:

  • Direct Moxibustion
  • Indirect Moxibustion  (This is the style we use in our clinic)

Direct Moxibustion

In this method, a little cone-shaped quantity of moxa is positioned on the point of acupuncture where it is burned. There are two types of this method

  • non-scarring
  • scarring

In scarring moxibustion, the ignited moxa is placed on the point till it completely burns out which leads to localized scarring and blistering after the healing. We do not use this method in our clinic.

In non-scarring moxibustion, the ignited moxa is placed on the acupuncture point but is removed or extinguished before it can burn the area. It only gives out a heating sensation which penetrates deeply in the skin but there isn’t any scarring or blistering on the area.

Indirect Moxibustion

This method is more popular in this technique as there is no risk of burning or pain. In this technique,  a moxa stick is burned at one end and is placed close to the area to be treated for a few minutes till. A mild warmth is felt close to the point being stimulated.

There is also another technique used in this method in which moxa and acupuncture needles are both used. First a needle is inserted and retained in the area to be treated. Afterwards the needle’s tip is covered by moxa and burned which generates heat around the area. After a while, the practitioner extinguishes the moxa and removes the needle. You can also use a moxa stick to warm an inserted needle. This technique works very well.

What to Expect?

Most patients experience a sudden flood of warmth, quickly radiating through a certain pathway and away from the area being treated. This is a signal which indicates that the level of qi has been achieved and the flow of xue and qi has been released in the channel.

What Does Moxibustion Treat?

This traditional Chinese medicine technique is best used to treat:

  • Pain caused by arthritis or injury, this is most effective during the cold patterns when the pain is considerably better with heat application,
  • Irregular elimination and digestive problems,
  • Obstetrical and gynecological conditions,
  • Flue and cold.

Usually, both moxibustion and acupuncture are used during the same session if appropriate to the treatment strategy and diagnosis. This is because the practitioners believe this enhances the effectiveness of the healing process. However, moxibustion can be done at home, unlike acupuncture, which has to be done in a clinical setting by a trained practitioner. Usually Chinese practitioners provide training to their patients to do the moxibustion technique by themselves.

To learn more about moxibustion call 786-537-7022