Moxibustion

This is an ancient oriental therapy which involves heating specific areas of the body by burning a herbal preparation on or near the body. This produces a very pleasant sensation of warmth and is an effective way of relaxing the muscles.

The herb used is called Mugwort, and is a good example of a warming treatment. Moxa has a warming and energising effect and is used on specific points to increase energy or Qi and relieve pain. Moxibustion can be applied in a variety of ways according to the condition. For instance, burning Moxa on a slice of ginger enhances the warming quality: The heat of the Moxa passes through the ginger into the point being treated. Burning Moxa on the handle of a Acupuncture needle directs warming energy straight into the point, whilst Moxa sticks can give heat to a point over which it is held.