Moxa wool is burned and used for a treatment called moxibustion.
The purpose of a moxibustion treatment, from a Chinese medical perspective, is to apply warmth to an acupoint or a specific part of the body to treat cold or dampness and improve the flow of Qi and Blood in our system.
Moxibustion treatments at Zen Shiatsu and Wellbeing, are incorporate into your Shiatsu sessions where it is required.
Origins of Moxibustion
The beginnings of moxibustion stem from the early healing methods of cauterization. It is mentioned in writings dating back to the 5th century BC, where placing hot sticks directly onto the skin to treat various illnesses was implemented. That method is still used today in the technique called 'direct moxibustion'.Â
By the 12th century, moxa was highly regarded in therapeutic practises, with physicians remarking that it was better than acupuncture for certain cold illnesses.
Moxibustion therapy is based on the use of mugwort, a herb with the Latin name Artemisia vulgaris. The term "moxa" is derived from the Japanese word "mogusa", which means mugwort. This herb is known for its natural warming properties, making it a popular choice in traditional medicine.
Styles of Moxibustion
There are two main moxibustion styles: indirect moxibustion and direct moxibustion.
​
Indirect Moxibustion
Indirect moxibustion is a popular method for giving treatments. This is the style that I use in my Zen Shiatsu sessions.
The moxa stick is burned at one end and held above the skin over an acupoint moved around a larger area like the knee. This method can be very effective in treating various conditions. Sometimes loose moxa is placed on a thin slice of ginger and lit, which will then rest on the skin and removed when the sensation gets too warm. Alternatively, small cones can be used; these are small enough to sit on an acupoint and then they are also removed when the feeling gets too warm. Neither of these leave a mark on the skin.
​
Direct Moxibustion
Direct moxibustion is a technique used in traditional Chinese medicine where moxa wool is placed directly on the skin. This can cause blistering and scarring, but it can also be done without causing any damage to the skin. It is believed to have several health benefits, such as pain relief and improved circulation.
Benefits of Moxibustion
Used in Zen Shiatsu
Cold is a Yin factor, and its signs and symptoms can be brought on in two ways.
External cold, pathogenic influences coming from the outside, like the weather weakening the body's Yang Qi.
Internal cold, from Yang Qi deficiency weakening the protective Qi from the inside, like diet or emotions making your body susceptible to external influences. You can read more in my blog, Lung: Grief & Sadness.
The presence of excessive cold in the system can inhibit the movement of Qi and Blood through the channels. Chills, fevers, headaches, frequent colds, and cold limbs are some of the signs and symptoms. This is why I like to use moxibustion within my Zen Shiatsu treatments.
​
Dampness is a Yang factor, and it is usually associated with the digestive system: the stomach, spleen, and intestines.
Some of the signs and symptoms are heaviness, stagnation, a foggy brain, or oedema. You may find it harder to get moving in the morning and have achy parts of the body.
An accumulation of lingering dampness could lead to rheumatism or rheumatoid arthritis.
​
Qi and Blood are interconnected. Qi pulls the Blood, and the Blood nourishes Qi. In our bodies, Qi is our vital energy that is important for the whole of our physical form and psychological state. When there is a good balance between Yin and Yang, Qi and Blood flow freely.
