Moxa
Moxa is another word for dried mugwort (artemisia vulgaris). Mugwort is an herb that has been used for thousands of years around the world for its healing, warming properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, moxibustion is used during an acupuncture treatment. The acupuncture points are warmed with moxa to add energy and heat to those points. Energy begins to flow again. The acupuncturist may choose this method 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. They apply moxa with attention to what you are experiencing. There are different ways in which moxa can be used. For example, it is used in the treatment of tennis elbow. The heat penetrates through the needle into the painful area and sets the energy in motion.
The Moxa Stick
A moxa stick is a thick cigar that smolders while being moved back and forth above the skin or towards a point. Of course, the cigar does not touch the skin. Women with a baby in a breech position may be familiar with the moxa stick. Daily warming the outer corner of the nails of both little toes with moxa can encourage the baby to turn. Always consult a well-trained acupuncturist and discuss with your midwife or doctor.
Moxa on the Needle
This is a method where a piece of a thin moxa cigar is slid over the acupuncture needle and ignited. The heat is brought deep into the skin or muscle through the needle. Again, the moxa does not touch the skin.
Moxa Ball
Sometimes a small ball of moxa is placed directly on the skin and ignited. As soon as you begin to feel the heat, the acupuncturist quickly removes the ball.
Moxa Lamp
For those who do not want the smoke from the smoldering herb, a moxa lamp can be used. This can deeply warm an entire area.
