More on Moxibustion.
The original Chinese term for what we today include under the umbrella term of “acupuncture” is zhenjiu: which refers to both needling (zhen) and moxibustion (jiu). These two ancient practices are essential parts of one fundamental approach to treating disease and maintaining health.
Today, compared to the popularity of acupuncture in the strict sense of needle insertion, moxibustion is often considered a secondary practice, but it is no less important.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion, often called moxa, is the practice of burning herbs (traditionally mugwort) near or on the surface of the skin. Areas used often, though not always, correspond to acupoint locations.
This heat therapy directs blood flow and qi to an area, bringing warmth and circulation to the local tissue, which then relieves pain, warms and stimulates healing and function of the body’s organs. According to Chinese theory, moxibustion dispels cold pathogens and/or warms the Yang aspect, which is the heat and vitality that already exists within us.
We are warm-blooded creatures and the invasion or development of cold patterns in the body will constrict, slow, weaken, numb, and devitalize the body. By using a directed heat therapy like moxibustion (of which there are many different types) we can bring back the light, stoke the fire, warm the channels and lift the essence. Where there is cold, pain or weakness, we may use moxa. And, moxa feels so good.
What happens in a Moxa session?
There are many different forms of moxa used in clinics today (even smokeless moxa to accommodate office buildings and scent sensitive folks). The moxa is put in close proximity to the skin and is maintained near (within the person’s comfort) until the area is slightly reddened and sufficiently warmed. People generally report feeling comforted and relaxed during and after a moxa session. Other forms of moxa include direct application of the herb with a more intense sensation of heat. As the moxa burns down closer to the skin surface, it is eventually removed before the heat sensation becomes stronger.
Moxa rolls can be applied to the handle of acupuncture needles as well to warm the needles through conduction and allow for deep penetration of the heat into tissue.
Common applications for Moxibustion Treatment :
Pain treatments for joint and muscle pain (including arthritis and arthralgia) and abdominal pain (intestinal or gynecological).
Tissue recovery after surgery or injuries to restore proper circulation and reduced scarring. This includes symptoms of swelling, bruising, inflammation, and stiffness.
Breech presentations: Moxibustion treatment for breech presentations is the most studied obstetrical acupuncture treatment in the world. This treatment method is now recommended by Western medical practitioners as a safe and effective way of encouraging the movement of a breech baby into an ideal cephalic (head down) position for a vaginal delivery.
Building the energy up in a person who is tired, weak, cold, or debilitated. This includes recovery from great illnesses, women after childbirth, elderly, and those with weakened constitutions. Moxibustion has been shown to be beneficial in strengthening the immune system.
Water accumulation pathologies in the body such as edema and swelling. This is by way of boosting the body’s ability to properly transform and transport fluids to where they are required.