Moxibustion
Moxibustion, often referred to simply as “moxa”, is a technique which utilizes burning of the herb mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris, or Ai Ye). Moxa warms the channels and invigorates the blood in the body by boosting the Yang Qi. Moxa brings energy into the body and increases circulation. It is used in treatment of deficiency conditions, cold conditions, and Qi or Blood stasis. These conditions include such things as chronic fatigue, arthritis, cold hands and feet, Reynaud’s syndrome, and menstrual cramps.
Techniques
Moxa can be administered in a number of ways. The most common forms of moxibustion in the U.S. are indirect, direct and warming needle. While moxa is generally a safe and gentle modality, be sure to tell your acupuncturist if there are any areas of your body with decreased sensation or circulation (such as diabetic neuropathy or numbness).
Indirect Moxibustion
Indirect moxa involves a stick of compressed moxa which is lit and held close to the body over a certain area or acupuncture point. This technique looks like holding a large, glowing charcoal pencil over the body. Indirect moxa brings heat and energy to a larger area of the body than other techniques. This form of therapy can be taught to a patient and administered by them at home to augment their regular visits.
Direct Moxibustion
Direct moxa is used to bring more energy and warmth directly to an acupuncture point. The moxa is placed directly on the patient's skin, allowed to smolder until warm, and removed before any burning occurs. The practitioner may use a pre-formed cone of moxa, or use loose moxa to form a small pyramid or grain-of-rice shape for placement directly on the skin over an acupuncture point.
Warming Needle Moxibustion
Warming needle is when the moxa is applied to the handle of an inserted acupuncture needle. The energy from the burning moxa is transmitted down the needle to the heart of the acupuncture point, and also diffused to the area surrounding the needle. This technique is used for strong tonification of the Yang energy.