The term "moxibustion" comes from a word combination of moxa and combustion. Chinese dried mugwort also known as moxa or Artemisia Vulgaris is often used in conjunction with acupuncture.
The ancient but rarely used direct method involves the placement of clumps of moxa pinched into cones, put directly onto important acupoints, lit and burned slowly to warm the relevant point and area.
Typically, at Health and Harmony, we use indirect moxibustion. We either use dense cones of moxa placed on top of an inserted acupuncture needle or hold a rolled tube of moxa moss in place over an acupuncture point.
The biggest benefit of moxibustion is increased blood circulation which can warm those with a predisposition to coldness. After repeated and conscientious use, the heat is absorbed by the body which can use it to boost Qi to produce more heat and loosen stagnation of blood.
We use a combination of smoking and smokeless moxa in our treatments. We have found, in our experience, that the smoking moxa moss is more effective as there is a higher concentration of moxa.
However, while the smoke dispels quickly, we are also conscious of those who may possibly have respiratory difficulties. Aside from poor circulation, moxibustion can also be used to ease aches and pains varying from period pains to joint pain.
