MOXIBUSTION

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy where dried plant materials called “moxa”, a cone of stick made of ground mugwort leaves are gently burned near the surface of the skin. According to Chinese medicine teachings, this is intended to invigorate the flow of energy in the body.

The practitioner generally holds a burning moxa stick close to, but not touching, the surface of the skin. The moxa stick is held about an inch from the body over specific areas often corresponding to acupuncture points.

What will I feel?

It is not uncommon for patients to feel a sudden flooding of warmth that radiates along a specific pathway away from the site of application. This is the ideal result as it indicates the free flow of energy in the body.

What is moxibustion used for?

Practitioners often use both acupuncture and moxibustion in the same clinic session when appropriate. These therapies are believed to increase each other’s effectiveness when used together. Moxibustion is commonly used for:

• Digestive problems including irregular bowel movements

• Protection against cold and flu

• Pain due to injury or arthritis

• Help to turn a breech baby

• Fatigue

• Menstrual cramps