Before medicine, as we know it existed, people resorted to alternative healing methods to treat their ailments, and one of these treatments was moxibustion. It has been used for over a thousand years and has been proven to strengthen people’s health and immune systems and even alleviate chronic and short-term illnesses.
Most Asian countries integrate traditional medicine into their culture and use it to treat diseases; the most popular examples are Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. Northern countries have jumped on the bandwagon and are beginning to use plants and alternative medicine to treat illness, but how much do they really know about this ancient tradition? Without further ado, let’s dive into this blog to learn more about moxibustion.
1. What is it?
It is traditional Chinese medicine therapy that consists of burning dried mugwort and a plant which is also known as “moxa”. This is done at particular acupuncture points on one’s body. It is a small and spongy herb that is believed to enhance the healing properties of acupuncture. Because of this, the leaves are burnt close to the surface of the skin. A stick is used to apply heat.
Moxibustion is a healing practice that is derived from Chinese medicine. It is done to strengthen the blood and stimulate the flow of Qi (one’s energy), and it is said to maintain one’s overall health. According to healers and Chinese medicine, it can also increase the circulation of your Qi and can even help your body deal with a range of issues, including but isn’t limited to chronic pain and digestive problems.
2. Where does it come from?
Having said this, there is no official moxibustion. It was invented in a Chinese community that emanates as early as the clan commune period of the Chinese calendar of the primitive civilization. Some archaeologists or other sources believe that this was discovered in the 16th century BCE, during the Shang Dynasty.
3. Its uses
Alternative health practitioners believe and argue that the heat generated through moxibustion can help in the flow of energy or Qi throughout your body. This happens thanks to your body’s pathways, known as meridians. The principle of traditional Chinese medicine is to stimulate energy through your body, and this is believed to achieve health and wellness.
It is based on the belief that blockages in one’s flow of energy can lead to mental and physical health issues. It can treat:
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- Arthritis
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- Back pain
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- Cancer
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- Digestive problems
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- Fatigue
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- Headaches
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- Infertility
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- Migraines
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- Muscle stiffness
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- Tendinitis
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- Ulcers
4. Potential risk
It is an alternative technique that is worth it for us. However, there are a few risks out there when it comes to moxibustion. One of the major risks is burns because a hot stick is used during the process. For this specific reason, beginners are told to stick to the indirect moxibustion approach. Some other side effects or risks you need to be aware of are:
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- Basal cell carcinoma or a type of skin cancer
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- Coughing from the smoke
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- Dark skin patches
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- Fetal distress if pregnant
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- Nausea and vomiting
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- Premature birth
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- Toxic reactions to mugwort
Looking for help?
If you are considering the use of Chinese medicines, acupuncture, moxibustion, and even Tui Na for any type of health condition, make sure to consult your doctor before undergoing treatment. It is especially important to talk to your doctor if you consider using Chinese medicine while pregnant. Leaf Integrative Acupuncture is the place to go if you want to know more about the benefits of Chinese herbs. They are based in Boca Raton, Florida. So, what are you waiting for? Give them a call today for more information on their services.
