Moxibustion Benefits
Moxibustion Benefits – Traditional vs Modern
Moxibustion is the burning of mugwort leaves, known as Ai Ye (Artemesia vlugaris) directly or near the surface of the skin. Moxibustion is a penetrative heat therapy with medicinal benefits which is commonly integrated in an acupuncture treatment to enhance healing effect.
What is moxibustion used for and its benefits?
Moxibustion works as an excellent complementary with acupuncture to amplify treatment outcome by improving overall Qi and blood circulation. The nature of the moxa is bitter, acrid, and warm which validate its healing properties to expel cold, remove dampness, stimulate acupoints and promotes energy circulation. Moxibustion is a traditional healing method which has been long used for centuries to prevent diseases, trigger body’s natural healing response, improve functions of the organs, and strengthen immunity as part of its numerous benefits.
Clinically, it has been widely used for:
Pain management
Digestive disorders: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), constipation, diarrhea etc.
Weight management
Breech babies
Women’s health issues: irregular menstrual cycle, infertility, uterine bleeding etc.
Men’s health issues: low sperm count and motility
Insomnia
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there are several body constitutions which are suitable to consider for moxibustion treatment:
Deficiency in Yang
Phlegm and dampness
Qi and blood stagnation
Deficiency in Yang:
Individual may present with cold extremities (hands and/or feet), slow metabolism, lack of motivational energy, scanty menstrual flow for the ladies
Phlegm and dampness:
Individual may present with sluggish metabolism, indigestion, abdominal bloating, loose bowel, prefers sweet and greasy food, excessive sebum secretion on face and scalp
Qi and Blood stagnation:
Painful menstrual cramps, clots, emotionally anxious, feels irritated, frustrated, easily triggered by stress, dull complexion, poor digestive function, and poor sleep quality