Moxibustion is an ancient Chinese medical practice that stimulates healing and promotes wellness. It is a form of heat therapy that involves burning a herb called mugwort over specific points on the body. This herb is known for its medicinal and therapeutic properties and is said to be able to treat various health conditions.

How Does Moxibustion Work?

Moxibustion can treat various conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues, infertility, and even certain types of cancer. It is also commonly used to support the health of pregnant women, helping to turn breech babies, reduce pain, and increase energy levels.

The primary goal of moxibustion is to restore balance by stimulating the flow of qi, or energy, around the body. The heat generated by the burning moxa is believed to encourage the qi to move through the body’s meridians, or channels, to areas where it is blocked or stagnant. This helps to restore balance and promote healing.

A trained practitioner typically performs moxibustion. The practitioner will use either a direct or indirect moxibustion technique. In direct moxibustion, the moxa is burned directly on the skin, while in indirect moxibustion, it is placed close to the skin without touching it. The practitioner may also use various tools to help direct the heat, such as a moxa stick or a moxa box.

What Can Moxibustion Heal?

Moxibustion has been used to treat various physical conditions, such as arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain, digestive disorders, asthma, and even some skin conditions. It can also be used to improve a person’s overall health and well-being. It has been used to boost the immune system, reduce stress, and improve circulation.

What Are the Risks of Moxibustion?

One of the most serious risks of moxibustion is the potential for burns. Though the herb is usually burned on the skin, it can easily get too hot and cause serious burns. The application of moxibustion should always be done with caution and care. It is also important to note that moxibustion should not be done on broken or irritated skin, as this can increase the risk of burns.

 In some cases, moxibustion can also cause a skin reaction. This is due to the mugwort, which can be a skin irritant for some people. If you have sensitive skin, it is important to be aware of this risk and take extra care when applying moxibustion. If a reaction occurs, it is important to stop the treatment and seek medical advice.

Moxibustion can also produce smoke, which can be an irritant to the eyes, nose, and throat. It is important to make sure the area is well-ventilated and that you are wearing a mask while applying the herb. It is also important to keep the area clear of children and pets to avoid any potential hazards.

Finally, moxibustion should not be used in place of traditional medical treatments. It should only be used alongside conventional treatments and not be used as a sole treatment for any medical condition. If you are considering moxibustion, it is important to talk to your doctor first to determine if it is an appropriate treatment for your needs. 

Conclusion

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy using dried mugwort leaves to heat and stimulate acupuncture points. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including digestive disorders, musculoskeletal pain, menstrual cramps, and fatigue. Moxibustion is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner.

If you are interested in natural Chinese medicine in London, you can visit us at Virtual Medicina. We offer holistic herbal and natural remedies like acupuncture, cupping therapy and more. Get in touch with us to learn more about what we can do for you.