Warming points through Moxibustion is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It utilises a substance called Moxa, which is made from the aged leaves of a herb called mugwort.
When lit, Moxa produces a nourishing, penetrating warmth similar to the heat from the sun, which radiates deep into the body. In its simplest terms, Moxibustion is Chinese Medicine’s version of a relaxing deep heat treatment.
After the leaves are ground to a fluff, practitioners compress the resulting product into a ball or form it into cones, which are placed on the acupuncture needles (indirect moxibustion) or directly onto the acupuncture point and then burnt.
The form of direct moxibustion that Lorna uses means that the cone is extinguished and removed from the skin before it has burnt out to avoid any possibility of skin damage. For use on larger areas, Moxa can also be formed into larger cigar-like sticks, which are lit and then held over the affected area until the benefits are felt.
Call 07960 852338 and book your Moxibustion treatment today
What does Moxibustion do?
When applied to specific acupuncture points in conjunction with acupuncture, direct moxibustion increases the effect of acupuncture. This is known in Chinese Medicine as tonification, a process which involves the supplementation and fortification of its natural resources. The additional heat produced is a way of giving patients something ”extra” – a natural way of boosting the body. It is therefore particularly effective for treating patients experiencing Loss of Energy and Feeling Run Down.
The stimulating effect of the heat from the Moxa is also effective for increasing circulation, particularly to the pelvic area. This is known in Chinese Medicine as dispersal – movement of stuck blood or energy. Moxibustion is therefore especially effective in treating a variety of Women’s Concerns.
Moxibustion and Breech Babies
This acupuncture treatment is well known for helping breech babies to turn on their own without any manipulation. Find out more
The effects of Moxibustion
Whilst the process can be a little alarming when first experienced since the patient can feel a bit like a human birthday cake, it is a good marker for determining the progress of your recuperation. As a result of a course of repeated treatments, the more the patient’s energy rises, the warmer the moxa feels to the point where it is uncomfortable the moment it is lit. That’s when the practitioner knows that the patient no longer needs this type of stimulation.
Like the sun, moxa produces a comforting dry heat helping to eliminate dampness and cold in the body, alleviating Aches and Pains and supporting Aging Joints.
Moxibustion is a regular part of Lorna Withers’ acupuncture treatments at her treatment rooms in Leigh-on-Sea and Southend on Sea, Essex
