What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion involves the use of burning herb “mugwort” on or near acupuncture points of the body to facilitate healing. It is cone-shaped, and the heat resulting from “moxa” also referred to as moxibustion strengthens the blood and stimulates the flow of qi (energy) and the overall wellbeing of the body.
Applications of moxibustion?
Moxibustion can be applied in two ways; direct and indirect.
In direct application, a small cone-shaped amount of moxa is placed on an acupuncture point and burned, the patient will experience a penetrating heating sensation into the skin, but most likely wouldn’t experience pain or scarring. And in other cases, it is left until it burns out completely.
The indirect application which is commonly used as there is a lower risk of pain or burning is achieved by placing a lit end of a moxa stick, holding it close to the area being treated for several minutes until it turns red.
Another form of indirect moxibustion uses both acupuncture needles and moxa, thereby a needle is inserted into an acupuncture point and the moxa is ignited on the tip to generate heat to the point and surrounding area.
ALSO, READ: ACUPUNCTURE: A HEALING TECHNIQUE
Why Mugwort is used and not some other herb?
Artemisia vulgaris also known as mugwort, is great for blood circulation. Traditionally, it’s said to stimulate irregular or suppressed menstruation and is said to have properties that are anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, also effective in treating a wide range of parasitic infections, and fungal infections.
It is used as a herbal remedy for various ailments ranging from colds, fevers, asthma, also commonly used to treat digestive disorders and aid in digestive functions. It is a good herb for a gastric disorder, bowel complaints, and equally used to promote sleep.
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