Moxibustion Therapy

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is another treatment method of stimulating acupuncture points through the application of heat. The literal translation of the word means ‘burning herb.’  The most commonly used substance to perform moxibustion treatment is a weed called mugwort whose pharmaceutical name is Artemisia Vulgaris or Artemisia Argyi. Mugwort is utilized because it can be easily be dried, compressed into cones or cigar-shaped sticks, and then burned to produce a deep, penetrating type of heat.  It is utilized primarily for its tonifying or strengthening effects on the body.

Historically, there have been a variety of ways to apply it to stimulate acupuncture points, but the safest and most common method used today is referred to as indirect moxibustion. This means that the ignited moxa itself does not come into direct contact with the skin; instead, it is elevated above and directed towards a specific acupuncture point to provide the necessary stimulation. Like acupuncture, moxibustion has a wide variety of therapeutic indications but is more commonly used for conditions that are classified as chronic, cold, or deficient as well as disorders or diseases affecting the digestive, immune or reproductive systems.

As moxibustion often needs to be performed two to three times per week to achieve the maximum benefit, we often teach our patients which acupuncture points need to be stimulated and how to apply the moxibustion safely so that they may perform it at home. Many of them find it to be a very relaxing ritual as part of their weekly routine. It is also a simple and effective way to increase your energy, vitality and to boost your mood.