MOXIBUSTION  (THE BURNING HERB THAT HEALS

What is moxibustion?

Moxibustion

 is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials called "moxa" are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. The intention is to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body and dispel certain pathogenic influences.

What can I expect to feel?

It is not uncommon for patients receiving moxibustion to report a sudden flooding of warmth that quickly radiates along a specific pathway (usually corresponding with the jing luo channel that is being treated) away from the site of application. This is a good result, as it indicates the arrival of the Qi and signals that the flow of Qi and xue has been freed in the channel.

When is moxibustion used?

Moxibustion is used for:

• Pain due to injury or arthritis, especially in "cold" patterns where the pain naturally feels better with the application of heat

• Digestive problems and irregular elimination

• Gynecological and obstetrical conditions, including breech presentation in late term pregnancy

• Protection against cold and flu strains

• Migraine