Moxibustion

If you have visited an acupuncturist, you may have heard them mention the use of Moxibustion as a treatment option. This term might be unfamiliar to most people and requires some explanation and clarification.

What is Moxa?

It is a form of heat therapy that involves burning the dried moxa plant and placing it on or near the surface of the skin. Virginia University of Integrative Medicine describes it as promoting the flow of "qi" (pronounced "chee") and eliminates certain pathogens within the body. Click here

Moxa is made from the mugwort plant. It can be shaped into sticks of various sizes or mixed with other herbs to enhance its therapeutic benefits. Interestingly, moxa has been utilized in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

The first image is one method known as a moxa cone, it is placed directly on specific treatment points on the patient's skin. The acupuncturist will ignite these cones and allow them to burn slowly until patients start feeling heat sensations before removing them.

In contrast, Moxibustion in the United States tends to be applied more indirectly as a safety precaution. Instead of placing cones directly onto their skin, acupuncturists typically hold moxa sticks about an inch or two above targeted treatment areas during application.

The practice of Moxibustion varies per practitioner’s preference when treating patients.

Another technique involves putting moxa on acupuncture needles and allowing it to burn until extinguished.

Essentially, moxibustion refers to heating up dried mugwort (mug- wort) plants then applying them either right onto or just above your skin’s outer layer .

What can Moxibustion treat?

One of the primary benefits of moxibustion is its ability to raise a person's body temperature. Individuals who suffer from autoimmune diseases, weak immune systems, and poor blood circulation often feel cold. Practitioners will use moxibustion for fertility cases and breeched baby cases as well. The warming properties of moxa make it an effective treatment for these conditions.

Moxibustion is also utilized in the management of various ailments, including pain. It is believed that the heat generated by moxa can eliminate coldness and alleviate discomfort throughout the body, such as shoulder pain, abdominal pain, knee pain, back pain, and joint pain.

Furthermore, moxibustion aids in digestion by warming up the meridians and strengthening the entire digestive system. By enhancing immune function and reducing susceptibility to illness, moxa treatments can promote overall health and well-being.

If you are curious to know if Acupuncture and Moxibustion will work for you, schedule a consultation to gain a personalized analysis.