Moxibustion
Moxibustion treats and prevents diseases by applying
heat to points or certain  locations
on the human body. The term moxibustion is derived from
Japanese (Moe Kusa) meaning, burning herb. The actual
herb is artemesia vulgaris, (mugwort, Chinese wormwood).
This herb is warm, bitter, and sharp in nature. These
qualities indicate the yang nature of the herb and its
ability to treat yang deficiencies. Moxa is available,
does not flame, and can provide a temperature of 670
degrees centigrade. Recent scientific studies indicate
the chemical richness of Moxa including vitamins A,
B, C & D, protein, sodium, potassium, calcium, iron,
aluminum, magnesium, adenine, and choline.
In China the application of heat in conjunction with
needling techniques has been documented for the last
ten thousand years. Traditionally, the herb was picked
before flowering, in the fifth lunar month and dried
for three years. Sun dried Moxa was considered to be
more beneficial due to the added strength of the sun’s
rays.
Indications for Moxibustion include the following:
• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Abdominal pain
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Diarrhea
• Frozen shoulder
• Rheumatic pain
• Sciatica pain
• Vomiting
Moxibustion regulates the Qi in blood and opens the
12 primary meridian channels. It is utilized for bi-syndrome
to expel coldness and dampness. The methods of moxibustion
include moxacones (direct and indirect), moxisticks,
moxiboxes, the warming needle technique and the heated
needle technique. In the United States, non-scarring
Moxa and indirect Moxa are used to avoid burns and scars.
Approximately three to six cones of Moxa may be applied
to a site with careful practitioner supervision.
Moxibustion is very helpful in preventing disease and
keeping healthy. It is an excellent modality to provide
relief from pain, fatigue, and chronic conditions.
An experienced practitioner incorporates this ancient
Chinese method along with acupuncture.
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