Moxibustion is a form of therapy derived from Chinese medicine that entails the burning of mugwort leaves, a small spongy herb that is believed to enhance healing with acupuncture. As such, the leaves are burnt close to the skin’s surface using a stick to apply heat.
Its purpose is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of Qi or energy, and maintain good health. According to Chinese medicine, an increase in the circulation of Qi can help your body deal with a broad range of issues, including digestive problems and chronic pain.
What conditions can be treated with Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions, including:
- gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation
- menstrual cramps
- pain, including pain from arthritis, joint or muscle pain, and chronic pain
- cancer-related nausea
- urinary incontinence
- fertility
- asthma symptoms
- eczema
- fatigue
- cold and flu prevention.
Benefits of Moxibustion
Scientists and health experts have been battling over the usefulness of moxibustion for a while and in 2009 study discovered that moxibustion reduced both the frequency and severity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. Furthermore, while not proven, moxibustion has been used by practitioners to treat and help a number of problems, including:
- Arthritis pain
- Digestive disorders
- Promotes circulation of blood
- Stimulates acupuncture points.