Tuesday, April 20, 2010

The Burning Question - What is Moxa?

Moxibustion is a therapy often used in conjunction with acupuncture. Therapeutically moxibustion stimulates acupuncture points through the application of heat. The primary herb used in clinical practice is Ai Ye (artemisia vulgaris) or mugwort.

What action does burning moxa have on the body?
  • activates qi and blood circulation
  • eliminates cold and damp
  • disperses swelling
  • reduces pain
  • strengthens the body's yang qi which in turn helps prevent illness
  • enhances the therapeutic action of the acupuncture points when used in conjunction with needles
Moxa can be applied in the following forms:
Stick - the leaf is dried and rolled into a stick which can be used to warm the needles or areas of the body.
Floss - is a form which can be made into cones to apply on the body or tops of needles. Other herbs may be used with the moxa cones to enhance the therapeutic effect. Sliced ginger to help treat vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping. Garlic helps to detoxify and reduce swellings. Salt helps to tonify the yang qi.
Smokeless - spray and stick for use in clinics where air circulation is an issue.

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