What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning a dried herb, usually mugwort (Artemisia argyi) (also known as moxa), on or near the skin to stimulate specific acupuncture points and meridians. The heat generated from burning the moxa is believed to warm and invigorate the flow of qi (life force) and promote healing.
Types of Moxibustion
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Direct Moxibustion: Moxa is burned directly on the skin, either until it burns out or is extinguished before burning the skin.
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Indirect Moxibustion: Moxa is burned near the skin, often with an insulating material like ginger or garlic between the moxa and the skin.
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Acupuncture Moxibustion: A moxa stick is used to burn an acupuncture needle that has been inserted into the body.
Modern Uses
In modern medicine, moxibustion is sometimes used to help turn a breech baby (a baby positioned bottom-first in the womb) and to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatments.
Traditional Uses
Moxibustion is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, digestive issues, and fertility problems.
What types of health problems can benefit from moxibustion?
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Joint pain
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Indigestion
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Organ prolapse
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Gastrointestinal issues
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Menstrual cramps
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Infertility
Safety
Moxibustion is generally considered safe, but there is a risk of burns if the moxa is not handled properly.