Moxibustion
There are a variety of Moxibustion techniques. The direct (Japanese) techniques include "heat perception Moxibustion," which involves using large cones of moxa that are placed directly on the skin and burned on ointment or ginger, then removed when the patient feels they're hot. "Penetrating Moxibustion" uses small rice grain-sized cones of high-grade moxa. Indirect (Chinese) techniques include the use of "moxa boxes" the burning of moxa within a ceramic temple that sits above specific areas of the body; "stick moxa" a cigar-like stick of moxa burned directly above the skin over specific points; and "needle head moxa" where small cylinders of moxa are placed on the ends of acupuncture needles so that the warmth penetrates deeply into the point without burning the skin. Moxa is used for pain and deficient conditions, and has been clinically effective for treatment of common conditions such as acute and chronic pain (frozen shoulder, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome), digestive upset (diarrhea, IBS), women's disorders, and sexual function (impotence, decreased libido). |
The ancient healing technique of Moxibustion, believed by some medical historians to pre-date even acupuncture, is approximately 3,000-years-old. It plays an important role in the Traditional medical systems of China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet, and Mongolia. Moxibustion uses moxa or mugwort herb (artemisia vulgaris), applied directly or indirectly, in order to warm regions and acupuncture points, which stimulates circulation, encourages a smoother flow of blood and Qi, and protects against cold and dampness.