Moxibustion in Santa Monica

Moxibustion is warming technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a means of alleviating pain and improving blood circulation in local areas.  Moxibustion or “moxa” technique uses smoldering mugwort (a Chinese herbal leaf) to provide a gentile warmth to the body.  Moxibustion techniques have been used throughout China and Asia for many thousands of years; in fact, the Chinese written character for acupuncture, translated literally, means “acupuncture-moxibustion.”

What is moxibustion used for?

In TCM thinking, moxibustion is used for patients who have a cold or stagnant condition. The application of moxa is used to warm the related channels and clear any cold blockages that may be causing pain. Generally speaking, moxa is used for conditions of weakness, cold sensations, and/or painful issues.  Some conditions where moxa is helpful include general immune system strengthening, chronic low energy, chronic fatigue, cold hands/feet, etc.  Moxa is also helpful for painful menstrual cramps, arthritis, muscle pain.

Why do acupuncturists use the mugwort herb instead of other herbs?

Mugwort, also known as artemesia vulgaris (ai ye in Chinese), has a long history of use in folk medicine. Research has shown that it significantly increases blood circulation to the pelvic area and uterus and stimulates menstruation. This could explain its use in treating breech births and menstrual cramps.

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