Moxabustion

What is Moxabustion?

Moxa, for short, is a form of heat therapy usually used in conjunction with acupuncture. Although, on its own it can be a very useful and powerful medicinal tool. It is an age old form of medicine that goes back into ancient chinese folklore where it is said that burning it over a specific point (stomach 36) on the body daily will help someone live to 100 yrs old.

Moxa is a dried out and compressed form of a plant called Mugwort (Folium Artemisiae), it comes in two different forms, either a spongy material that can be easily manipulated or into a more commonly used charcoal stick form. Both types are used to strengthen the body by burning it on or over areas of the body, usually over specific acupuncture points.

When burned therapeutic oils get released, which the body absorbs and the combination of heat and oil are used mainly to treat :

1. Cold conditions(poor circulation)
2. Stagnation Conditions(painful areas)
3. Reduce Swelling
4. Disperse or Dry Up Excess Fluids
5. Increase Circulation
6. Strengthen Organ Function

The oil it releases is also considered an emmenagogue, which means it helps ease and improve menstrual flow, for such issues such as:

1. Amenorrhea
2. Dysmenorrhea
3. Leucorrhea

It has such a powerful effect over the menstrual cycle that for centuries it has also been used for turning a breeched baby. Burning moxa over the side of the little toe 3 times a day for 5-15 minutes around the middle of the 3rd trimester will assist a baby in turning in the right direction for labour.

Moxa is also considered an external form of Qi(energy) that when used appropriately gives the body a boost, because of this it greatly complements acupuncture treatments. Most acupuncturists use it in their practice, but you don't have to be an acupuncturist to use it on yourself, although there are contraindications for its use. If you plan on using moxa on your own please consult an acupuncturist first.

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