Moxibustion
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a heat therapy technique that involves burning Ai Ye (Artemisia argyi), a herb known for its powerful healing properties, to apply warmth over acupuncture points, needles, or other areas of the body.
What are the primary functions of moxibustion?
- Promoting blood circulation
- Warming the meridians or area
- Dispersing cold from the body
- Relieving pain
- Removing blood stasis
There are two primary forms of moxibustion:
Direct Moxibustion
- The herb is shaped into small cones and placed directly on the skin over an acupoint, often with a thin barrier of salt or raw ginger is used to protect the skin.
- The intensity of the heat is carefully controlled by the practitioner through ongoing communication with the patient to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
Indirect Moxibustion
- A compacted, cigar-like stick of Ai Ye is burned and held close to the skin without direct contact.
- The patient experiences a deep, penetrating warmth at the targeted point, which is soothing and not uncomfortable
Both methods are designed to deliver therapeutic heat to specific areas, enhancing the flow of Qi and Blood while dispelling cold and alleviating discomfort.
Moxibustion’s soothing and revitalizing effects in conjunction with acupuncture, amplifies the effectiveness of the treatment. Together, these modalities work synergistically to accelerate the healing process.