Moxibustion cautery is an ancient form of Tibetan and Chinese medicine, often used in conjunction with acupuncture. In the Chinese acupuncture and moxibustion process, a bundle of mugwort is dried, ground up and formed into either a smudging bundle or a cigar. It is then lit and applied to either an acupuncture needle or to pressure points.
There are different methods of moxibustion. Direct moxibustion is when a cone or cigar-like piece of compacted mugwort is lit and then pressed into a pressure point, burning all the way to the skin where it may blister or burn the skin. Sometimes the moxi (compressed mugwort) is extinguished before it actually reaches the skin or the moxi is placed on a thin slice of ginger root to protect the skin. In other cases, the moxi is burned near the skin without actually touching the body. The process simply warms the area by the proximity of the smoldering moxi stick. Yet another form of moxibustion involves the use of an acupuncture needle. The moxi-coated needle is inserted into the pressure point and the moxi is lit and burns, causing a warm sensation to radiate down the needle, warming the pressure point.
The mugwort stimulates the circulation of blood and is particularly effective in stimulating the muscles of the uterus, instigating menstruation or movement of a fetus inside the uterus. As a result, moxibustion is used to stimulate the turning of breach babies and to reduce cramps related to menstruation. Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture and moxibustion are effective in turning breach babies most of the time.
The burning of the moxi also stimulates the circulatory system, increasing blood flow throughout the body and awakening natural healing responses. Moxibustion is also used to fight colds and to stimulate the life energy force referred to as "ki" or "chi." By directing this energy through the body, it is believed to promote healing and wellness. If you are interested in trying moxibustion, contact a licensed acupuncturist near you.
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