Moxibustion is a technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the burning of the herb, “moxa” (mugwort) is used to increase circulation of qi and blood within the body. It is used to strengthen the yang energy of the body.

 

Moxibustion can be performed in two ways:

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1. Direct moxibustion: Involves burning a moxa cone which has been made by a health care practitioner which is placed on a specific acupuncture point on the meridian system. As the moxa burns the client may feel a warm sensation as the acupuncture point is penetrated with the yang energy from the moxa. This type of treatment is used to increase yang energy within the body.

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2. Indirect moxibustion: Involves burning moxa using a moxa stick. It is held by the health care practitioner over specific acupuncture points for several minutes until the client can feel heat or the area begins to turn red. Indirect moxibustion can be performed over an acupuncture needle that has been placed in an acupuncture point or the herb moxa can be wrapped on the acupuncture needle and burned which will create a warm feeling that will penetrate deep into the acupuncture point.

 

Health benefits of Moxibustion:

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• Increases the flow of qi & blood circulation in the body

• Relieves aches and pains due to arthritis

• Improves digestive function

• Boosts immune system function

• Increases energy levels

• Promotes lymphatic drainage

• Promotes turning of breech babies

• Increase yang qi