The Power of Moxa
Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy used in Chinese medicine, which involves the burning of a dried herb on or above specific acu-points on the body. In Chinese medicine, this herb is known as mugwort, moxa, or Aì yè and although any form of heat applied to the body is effective in stimulating circulation, the heat action combined with the powerful medicinal properties of mugwort makes moxa a powerful form of healing. Moxa also helps to increase the smooth the flow of Qi and blood and expel pathogenic influences. Internally moxa is really effective in resolving gynaecological disorders such as endometriosis as it helps to alleviate menstrual pain and warm the womb. The herb’s bitter and acrid with warming properties is thought to enter into the spleen, liver and kidney channels.
How is it used?
There are many uses of moxibustion. One such method is direct moxa- in which the dried herb is rolled into various size cones, placed directly on the skin and lit to create a more focused heat. (A lotion called Shiunko is often used a barrier to protect the skin from burns). Another technique is indirect moxa- which comes in a form of a stick and looks like a cigar. Indirect moxa can be easily used by yourself at home and I often use it to help with endometriosis pain. It is lit and then used above the surface of the skin to create a gentle warmth. Moxa can be combined with substances such as salt or ginger to enhance its therapeutic properties. It also can be made into medicinal incense, topical creams/ lotions and an essential oil which all have significant beneficial impacts.
What are its benefits?
Pain management- Moxa therapy can help to increase the flow of Qi, blood and lymph to areas of the body, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
Improves Arthritic pain- Especially when the pain that is made worse by cold conditions
Benefits Gynecological issues/ Menstrual pain- Moxa is often used on specific acu-points on the body to help improve symptoms associated with menstrual disorders.
Improves healing times of Injuries- An increase in blood, Qi, and Lymph to regions of the body that are in pain or injured speeds up the healing process .
Turning Breech position of fetus- Moxa is commonly used to help turn breech position babies during pregnancy. This simple and effective technique is highly regarded within gynecology.
Boosts immunity/ Protection against flus and colds- Moxa helps to boost immunity and shorten the duration of flus and colds. Studies have shown that moxa done on the acupuncture point ST 36 helps to increase white blood cell count almost immediately after the treatment.
Improvements from digestive complaints- It’s extremely effective for conditions such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. There are specific techniques that can be used for these aliments such as salt moxa or ginger moxa. With these techniques either salt or a slice of fresh ginger is placed covering the naval and then a cone of direct moxa is burnt on top of it. Depending on the patients underlying pattern will determine which one is best to treat these conditions. These techniques of moxa help to alleviate pain and regulate the large intestines re-absorption of water.
Vitality Boosting/Longevity promoting benefits- Classical Chinese medicine, often refer to the daily use of moxibustion on Stomach 36 (Zu San Li) acu-point. This point is located one hand-width below the patella within the depression on the lateral side of the bone (tibia). This simple daily self-care routine is one of Chinese Medicines’ most “famous” preventative therapies. The daily usage of indirect or direct moxa on this point helps to increase ones vitality and longevity. Some of these points’ actions and indications are known to help stimulate the immune system, enhance digestion as well as help treat diarrhea and constipation. It can also increase endurance, alleviate cramps, regulate the bodies Qi, disperse stagnation, and help alleviate pain from the legs and knees.
There are many uses for moxa but there are some instances where it should be avoided. Its best to talk to your Chinese Medicine practitioner to see if mugwort is right for you.
By Cassandra