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How is moxibustion performed in traditional Chinese medicine?
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traditional Chinese medicine
In moxibustion, or moxa treatment, small cones of an herb (typically Artemisia moxa) are burned on top of needles placed in designated points of the body, generally the same points as those used in acupuncture.
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the burning of dried plant material—typically wormwood—on or near specific points on the body. These locations generally correspond to the points used in acupuncture.1
The procedure is performed in several ways:
- Direct and Indirect Warming: Historically, the skin was blistered by burning, but modern practice focuses on warming the area. The herb is often crushed, wrapped in special paper, and held above the skin or placed on the skin and removed before overheating occurs.1
- Moxa Sticks: Practitioners may use a moxa stick, which burns for several minutes to relieve pain and congestion.1
- Specialized Tools: Japanese techniques utilize small tubes with handles to control the heat applied to the body.1
- Supplementary Materials: Practitioners may place moxa on pieces of ginger, garlic, or salt to treat specific conditions like digestive issues, respiratory disorders, or to stimulate abdominal organs.1
The practice is intended to increase circulation and relieve pain.1