Moxa - Part 2

Patients often comment about the smell of the burning Mugwort (artemisia vulgaris) when entering the office. Most share with me about their enjoyment of the smell and how as soon as they smell it they have an overwhelming feeling of relaxation.
 
Smelling the burning Mugwort can be helpful for warming and opening the lungs and airways.  Moxa smoke also has antimicrobial properties which can strengthen the immune system. But as stated above and as reported by my patients it can induce a deeply relaxing state.  The burning Mugwort is often considered soothing to the nervous system.
 
Using Mugwort as an essential oil both on the body and by diffusing it in the air has many healing effects too. Some common uses are for stimulating dreams, improving concentration, helping with emotional balance, and digestive support.
 
The use of moxibustion in the Five Element acupuncture tradition aims to address not only physical symptoms but also emotional and spiritual aspects of health, promoting holistic well-being and harmony within the body-mind-spirit.  It was taught to me that moxa accesses the "spirit of the point" or the name of the point.  It also prepares the point by drawing the energy to the acupuncture point before needling it.  Moxa on the acupuncture points is very nourishing, qi-building, warming, and aids in boosting the functions of that point.
 
In Japanese style acupuncture rice grain or thread moxa, also known as Okyu, is a common practice.  While in 5-element tradition and other traditional Chinese medicine practices the moxa is burned on the acupuncture point, in Japanese style acupuncture it is placed on the skin, not always on an acupuncture point, or it is placed by the needle.  The primary purpose is to aid in healing by supporting the production of white blood cells and improving circulation by creating a targeted inflammation response.
 
Indirect moxa is another way that moxa can be used.  Moxa can be burned in a moxa box to create deep warmth, expelling cold and dampness, to help with elevating pain.  Moxa sticks can be used to target a larger area for warming and nourishing a patient. A moxa stick can help to move the energy along a channel. Or in the case of “mother roasting” using moxa on a postpartum woman’s lower abdomen and back to restore her vital qi after childbirth.
 
There is such a rich history of the use of moxa in Chinese medicine.  I hope these two newsletters have helped you to understand a bit more about the uses of acupuncture and how it aids in your healing.