Among the techniques used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), moxibustion consists of heating an acupressure point. According to theory, the Yang part of our body is composed of Heat and Qi (our vital energy). This stimulation therefore helps to invigorate the Yang aspect, especially in a person who is physically and/or mentally fatigued.
To do this, the practitioner uses mugwort, the combustion of which provides heat and stimulation. This plant is traditionally used for its tonic and stimulating properties. Its leaves and flowers are dried, ground into powder, then condensed into various forms called "moxas": sticks, cones, etc.
Therapeutic Effects
Interestingly, moxibustion (like acupuncture) was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list on November 16, 2010. Whether in Asia or the West, this practice has long been used with proven benefits, particularly for treating:
- osteoarticular disorders
- muscular disorders
- digestive disorders
- gynecological disorders
- circulatory disorders
- psychological disorders
Generally, moxibustion is used to treat all pathologies related to a syndrome of Cold, Dampness, or Yang deficiency, as well as chronic pathologies deeply rooted in the body. By dispelling an evil (here, Cold or Dampness), it rebalances and mobilizes Qi and Blood. Applied to certain specific points, it strengthens the Yuan Qi, the source energy of humans.
Moxibustion can be:
- direct: the crushed mugwort is placed directly on the skin, on a slice of ginger or salt
- on a support: placed on the tip of an acupuncture needle to conduct heat through the skin layers
- indirect: the incandescent stick is held a few centimeters from the skin to generate a pleasant sensation of warmth (the most common method)
Contraindications
Although mugwort is easily accessible, self-treatment is not recommended for the uninitiated. Moxibustion is not harmless and should be used in specific cases. A person with an excess of Yang will find no benefit, quite the contrary.
Risks such as anxiety, insomnia, excessive agitation, heart problems, worsening of infections or inflammations, dehydration, burns, or fires can occur if the technique is poorly applied.
To fully benefit from the advantages of TCM, it is preferable to rely on a specialist when necessary.
