Benefits of Moxibustion
As the Fall and Winter settle in, cold and damp weather associated with these seasons can often exacerbate pain or other health conditions. As cold and lack of circulation can be at the root of many ailments, moxibustion is the perfect means of combating them.
Moxibustion (moxa, for short) is a modality used in Chinese medicine. It involves the burning of mugwort, a Chinese herb known as Ai Ye, an inch or two over specific acupuncture points or areas of pain. This adds further stimulation and power to the acupuncture points' effects. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions by producing thermal, neuro-endocrine, immune, analgesic, and blood circulating effects.
There are different types and forms of moxibustion. Here at Willow + Elm we use either smokeless stick moxa, ibuki moxa, or bowl moxa. Smokeless stick moxa is done with a compressed cigar version of the herb and is best for those with smoke/scent sensitivities. Ibuki moxa is done with small stick ons that contain the herb. And bowl moxa is done with a little bowl with 5 prongs on it in which 5 small sticks of moxa are inserted, and the bowl is placed over an area.
Conditions that may benefit from moxibustion:
Pain- Moxibustion has shown great results in the relief of pain due to osteoarthritis. It also may improve function in joints.
Digestive issues- Moxibustion can alter the mechanisms responsible for digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, bloating, and pain
Menstrual symptoms- Moxibustion can ease menstrual symptoms such as pain, cramping, bloating, and clotting
Fertility- Moxibustion can improve ovarian function, and increase blood circulation to reproductive organs
Breech baby- Moxibustion can increase the chances that a breech baby will turn into head down position
Fatigue- Moxibustion has shown efficacy in treating chronic fatigue syndrome, aiding adrenal function and energy levels
Make this winter season warmer and pain free! If you're interested in moxibustion, don't hesitate to ask Dr. Perez if it's a good fit for you!