Traditional Chinese Medicine technique that involves burning the herb mug wort (moxa) on or near the skin to stimulate acupuncture points or specific areas of the body with heat, aiming to warm the body, strengthen the Qi (life energy) flow, and treat certain illnesses, particularly those related to “cold” and “emptiness” in TCM theory. It can be applied indirectly, as a burning stick or cone, or even on the end of an acupuncture needle and is also used as a heat therapy.
- Burning moxa: The primary material used is moxa, dried mug wort, which burns slowly to produce a mild, deep heat.
- Stimulating points: This heat is applied to specific points on the body, known as meridians in TCM, which are believed to carry the flow of life energy.
- Promoting healing: By stimulating these points, the therapy aims to improve blood circulation and the flow of Qi, helping to restore yin and yang balance and promote general health.
Uses in traditional Chinese medicine:
- Moxibustion is used to treat a variety of conditions, particularly those associated with “coldness” or lack of energy in the body.
- One notable use is to help turn a baby in a breech presentation before birth.
- It is also used to alleviate side effects from chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer patients.