Moxa
Moxa is another word for dried mugwort herb (artemisia vulgaris). Mugwort is a herb that has been used worldwide for thousands of years because of its beneficial, warming effects. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, moxibustion is used during an acupuncture treatment. The acupuncture points are heated with moxa to add energy and warmth to those points. Energy starts flowing again. The acupuncturist may choose this if there is pain due to stagnation or if there is too much cold.
Moxibustion
In Moxibustion, the moxa is always heated. It goes without saying that the acupuncturist handles this carefully. He applies moxa with attention to what you experience. There are different ways in which moxa can be used.
The Moxa stick
A moxa stick is a thick cigar that smolders while being moved back and forth or towards a point above the skin. Of course, the cigar does not touch the skin. Women with a baby in breech position may be familiar with the moxa stick. Heating the outer corner of the nails of both little toes with moxa daily can encourage the baby to turn. Always consult a well-trained acupuncturist and consult with your midwife or doctor.
Moxa on the needle
This is a method in which a piece of a thin moxa cigar is slid over the acupuncture needle and lit. The heat is brought deep into the skin or muscle through the needle. Here too, the moxa does not touch the skin.
Moxa ball
Sometimes a small moxa ball is placed directly on the skin and lit. As soon as you start to feel the warmth, the acupuncturist quickly removes the ball.
Moxa lamp
For those who do not want the smoke of the smoldering herb, a moxa lamp can be used. This can deeply heat a whole area.
