Moxibustion

Moxibustion (moxa) is made of herbs called ‘ai ye 愛葉’ which is mugwort. It is also often used in meals or teas.  Mugwort are very well known to treat gynecological problems because it is very warming.  The most essential thing for female is to be kept warm all the time, especially our uterus and abdomen.   We often have menstruation pads that have mugworts added to the products.

So how is moxibustion made?  They are dried mugworts and we light them with fire and place them mostly on our abdomen, back and palms.  We leave them on for about 20 minutes and this has a tremendous warming, tonifying effect.  Ideally, it is recommended that this be done during the morning,  when we have to boost our energy to start a new day. 

There are two types of moxa treatments: direct moxa and indirect moxa. In the direct moxa technique, the moxa are applied directly onto the skin, while in the indirect method, the moxa are applied at a slight distance from the skin by holding the moxa and applying it in a circular pattern around the specific acupuncture points.

Possible side effects may include itchiness, dryness, slight burn or slight blistering of the skin.   If you are prone to such symptoms, please let the practitioner know in advance.

Patients who have heat sign, headache, rashes, etc should also be careful and alert their practitioner, because moxa treatment may worsen these symptoms.  In general, moxibustion is energizing and can be used at home and it is easy to use!