What is Stick Moxibustion (Moxa)
Stick Moxibustion is a technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine where a stick of the herb 'Mugwort' is lit and directed towards specific acupuncture points around the body. The Moxibustion is thought to promote the effects of the acupuncture points, support the free flow of Qi and blood within the channels of the body.
Sometimes acupuncturists will recommend patients perform moxibustion as part of their self-care 'homework'. If this is the case, the acupuncturist would offer recommendations of points that are specific to each individual.
If you are still unclear as to how to perform stick moxibustion, then we have the ultimate guide for you here in video form and in written form.
Types of Moxibustion (Moxa) Sticks
There are two main forms of moxibustion sticks available. The first is 'Smokey' moxa stick and the second is a 'Smokeless' moxa stick.
The 'Smokey' stick is the mugwort herb rolled into the stick in its purest form. It is the more potent form of Moxibustion of the two, but when lit can product quite a lot of smoke. If you are not in a well ventilated area, this can become hazardous.
The 'Smokeless' stick is the mugwort herb mixed in with charcoal. This reduces the production of smoke that is common with the 'Smokey' Stick. Though the intensity of the heat produced from this stick is not as high as the 'Smokey' stick, this is the 'safer' stick to use and is often the form practitioners will give to clients to take home.
What is Moxibustion (Moxa) used for?
Traditionally Moxibustion has been used for many different ailments, with the purpose of improving the flow of Qi and blood within the channels of the body. In doing so it supports the clearing of stagnation due to damp, cold and blood.
It is also thought to help support the Qi production within the body, depending the on the acupuncture points targeted. Here is a list of conditions a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner may opt to use moxibustion:
Support the turning of a breech baby
Digestive support
Menstrual irregularities
Fatigue and energy
Nervous system support
Migraines and headaches
Pain presenting in different channels of the body
How to Perform Stick Moxibustion at Home
1) Ensure a Safe Environment: Conduct moxibustion in a well-ventilated, non-flammable area. Avoid locations with flammable materials.
2) Let’s start: Light one end of the moxa stick with a lighter until an amber red colour appears. (The smokey moxibustion stick will light faster than the smokeless moxibustion stick). Note: There is no need to tear of exterior paper of the stick.
3) You’re ready to go:
Hold approx. 3cm away from the skin and use along meridian channels or at specific acupuncture points as reccommended by your Acupuncturist. Ensure you are guided by a trained practitioner as to what points and meridians to target, as incorrect use can bring imbalance into the body.
5) Ashing the stick: While using the stick you will need to intermittently ash the stick (Every 30 seconds to 1 minute is recommended). This is best done into a small jar. A ceramic cup or bowl works well for this also. Be careful as the ash can be hot and can burn.
4) When you’re done: Place the lit end of the moxibustion stick into the metal stopper (provided in kit). Check the stick after 5 minutes to ensure that it is no longer lit.
Disclaimer: Lang Acupuncture & Holistic Health assumes no responsibility or liability for any misuse or improper handling of this moxibustion product.
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