Moxibustion

Moxibustion or moxa treatment, is a traditional medical practice involving the burning of dried leaves of the wormwood plant known as Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort). The leaves are placed on acupoints or localised areas on the body with functions to relax, warm and tonify.

Classifications of Moxibustion Techniques:
  • Warming needle moxibustion, by burning moxa on the acupuncture needle.
  • Indirect moxibustion by either utilising a moxa burner box to fumigate larger areas on the skin or a single moxa stick (known as suspended moxibustion) for smaller areas until the skin turns red.
  • Direct moxa cone application on small localised areas of the skin; or burning moxa with ginger slices placed in between the skin and moxa to warm and allow ginger to exert its functions onto the body. Other alternative mediums include salt and garlic slices.
  • Pressing moxibustion, where a non-inflammable cloth is wrapped on the burning tip of the moxa stick before pressing onto the skin.
Studies have shown that it may benefit patients presenting with:
  • Gynaecological-related discomforts
  • Cold extremities
  • Pelvic organ prolapses
  • Anaemia
  • Musculoskeletal-related pain
  • Breech presentation

 


 

This treatment is performed by a licenced Chinese medicine practitioner. For further interest, kindly complete the enquiry form to make your first appointment with our practitioners.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

  1.  How often can moxibustion be performed?
There is no exact number of times moxibustion is performed per day but it can be applied everyday up to twice a day depending on the needs of the patient. Professional supervision is required to prevent further skin complications including burns, blisters, itchiness, allergies, infections, and scarring. Therefore, patients are discouraged from carrying this out at home.

  1.  What are other functions of mugwort?
Apart from moxibustion, mugwort is also part of the ingredients to make medicinal food in Asian cuisines. It can also be used as the flavouring of beer in certain Asian cultures.

  1.  Who is suitable for moxibustion?
Moxibustion is not suitable for all body types. A patient will be advised further by his/her practitioner to determine if this treatment is suitable.

  1.  Is moxa smoke harmful?
Moxa smoke does not pose a health risk due to the low concentrations of oxides produced during moxa combustion but it may trigger allergic response such as nausea or shortness of breath. Hence, optimum ventilation should be ensured during moxibustion.