needles + heat? should i ask about this?
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a technique used to warm channels or points. It is performed by burning mugwort, a Chinese herb, that has been packed into a cigar or some other form that can be held in the fingers or an implement. Mugwort, or moxa as it is called when prepared for this purpose, burns steadily at a high temperature. There are a variety of ways to apply this heat to the skin. A common one is the moxa cigar, which the practitioner holds close to (but not touching) the skin, and can move up and down a channel or circle over a particular point. There are also moxa holders of various shapes and sizes, which can be used over a larger area of skin to warm a body part. Loose moxa can be packed into cones and applied directly to the skin (only by a trained professional!).
What are the benefits of moxa?
It all has to do with warming you up. Do you have some pain point or issue that gets worse with cold? Using moxa externally could help treat it! Think: old injuries that hurt more in the winter months. Digestive concerns that get worse when you eat cold, uncooked food like salad. Menstrual pains that feel better when you use a heating pad.
Moxa sticks are sometimes given to a patient to take home and use during the week, between treatments. Always take advice from a licensed acupuncturist regarding whether moxa is appropriate for your situation, and follow instructions that they give you. I don’t currently offer moxa treatments at my practice because in a shared space I have to be considerate of others’ feelings about any lingering smoky smells, but talk with me about it if you’re curious!