Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a therapy whereby a stick of mugwort is burn over a small area of skin. The moxa warms up regions and acupuncture points with the intention of stimulating circulation through the points and inducing a smoother flow of blood and qi.

Moxipuncture is a similar treatment, when a block of moxa is positioned and burnt on top of an acupuncture needle that has been inserted into the skin.

Mugwort acts as an emmenagogue, meaning that it stimulates blood-flow which can be applied to various areas of the body, including the pelvic area and uterus.

 

Moxibustion works against cold and dampness in the body, and can serve to turn breech babies. Moxibustion also exhibits immunoregulatory effects by increasing the production of white and red blood cells in the body.

It stimulates the production of proteins in the body called interferons that are produced to target the immune system against infections and tumours.

It can improve the circulation of blood and lymph in the local area and relaxes contractile tissue to relieve pain and tension in rigid muscles, and also induces neurotransmitters, chemicals that are important for regulating pain and spasms and play an important role in neurological disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Moxibustion is especially effective in the treatment of chronic problems, “deficient conditions” (weakness), and gerontology.  If people are suffering from excessively cold conditions, moxapuncture is effective for channelling heat to those areas to get rid of the coldness and drying up dampness.  

Other conditions include:

  • Arthritic conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
  • Common cold and fatigue
  • Digestive disorders such as constipation and IBS
  • Gynaecological conditions such as painful periods and excessive vaginal discharge
  • Neurological conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Bell’s Palsy and fibromyalgia
  • Reproductive conditions such as abnormal foetal position, infertility, assisted IVF and impotence
  • Sports injuries
  • Upper respiratory tract infections and asthma

Moxibustion is an extremely safe procedure but carries certain risks such as skin burn if it is not properly carried out by an adequately trained practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine. I have received comprehensive training in all Moxibustion therapies and both Moxa Wand and Moxa Cone treatments which involves no contact between the mugwort and the skin at any time. You can therefore be assured that such Moxibustion treatments are carried out by a fully qualified professional.

  • Moxibustion is considered unsafe for people with diabetes.
  • If you suffer from Asthma or respiratory problems, a smokeless form of moxa can be used to avoid triggering your condition.
  • Moxa will not be used if people suffer from hypertension of excessive heat conditions.
  • Moxa will not be used around any open orifices, wounds or the eyes.
  • With moxipuncture I will ensure that ash will not burn the skins as barriers films will be positioned at the base of the needle to catch falling ash.