Moxibustion
Moxibustion is using the Chinese herb, Ai Ye, commonly known as Chinese mugwort, by burning it on or near the skin. An acupuncturist will choose either a direct or indirect technique, using moxa based on the desired therapeutic effect. Moxa can be applied directly using a piece the size of a small grain of rice or larger using a piece shaped like a cone about the size of an almond. The moxa is ignited with a piece of incense and then extinguished or removed before reaching the skin. It can also be used indirectly in form of a lit pole, which is in the shape of a cigar, or a small piece, which is in the shape of a ball or small cone placed, on top of acupuncture needles. There are various uses for moxa, with the most common use to promote warmth and movement over various areas of the body. It is effective is relieving pain which is caused by stagnation. When used with a certain technique, moxa is also effective for reducing swelling and can even help in clearing sinuses. A trained acupuncturist can properly assess the best application for moxa when treating a patient.
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Moxibustion FAQ
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion, also known as moxa, is the application of burning the Chinese herb, mugwort, either directly or indirectly near the skin. While the main application for moxa is to generate warmth and promote movement, it can be used to release heat and resolve inflammation using the appropriate technique by a properly trained acupuncturist.
What is moxibustion used to treat?
Moxibustion is effective in treating pain such as knee pain, low back pain, shoulder pain, certain joint pain, and menstrual cramps. It effectively helps to alleviate swelling and inflammation, which is great for acute injuries. In combination with acupuncture and herbs, moxa can effectively treat a cold. Moxa can be used to warm the body and help with certain digestive issues. In addition, it can be used to help clear the sinuses in certain conditions.
Does Moxibustion hurt?
Moxibustion is not a painful therapy. Patients may feel some warmth when moxa is applied. Some patients may not feel warmth at all, but the warmth is reflected upon palpation of the patient’s skin after using moxa. Specialized burn cream containing Chinese herbs, is used to help protect the skin during the application of direct moxa. When using needle head moxa, the acupuncturist will use moxa guards in certain areas to help stabilize the needle and protect the skin. During therapy involving moxa, the acupuncturist will communicate with the patient to avoid the patient from getting too hot or uncomfortable from the application of moxa being used.
How does moxibustion work?
The herb, Ai Ye, is considered a warm herb in East Asian medicine that is used in some herbal formulas, topical balms, and in moxibustion. By directly burning moxa in the form of poles, as small pieces the size of rice grains, or placed on top of needles, moxa is very warming and promotes the movement of Qi and blood. Qi is the basically the energy which flows throughout the body and along channels. When Qi and blood are stagnant, they cause pain. By directly burning moxa in the shape of a small cone, the moxa opens the pours and allows the release of heat. This is great for resolving inflammation and is extremely effective at reducing swelling.
What is direct moxibustion?
Direct moxibustion is burning moxa directly on the skin. Moxa can be shaped into pieces, the size of a small grain of rice, or into a small cone, roughly the size of an almond. A small amount of special burn cream is applied to the skin allowing the moxa to stick and help protect the skin. The moxa is then ignited with a piece of incense and then extinguished or promptly removed before reaching the skin.
What is indirect moxibustion?
Indirect moxibustion is the burning of moxa near the skin. Moxa can be made into a pole, approximately the size of a cigar. The pole is ignited, and the acupuncturist will move it above certain areas of the skin and in specific manners depending on the desired therapeutic effect. Moxa can be rolled into small balls or special pre-made cones can be used and placed on the end of needles. An acupuncturist will place a moxa guard around the needle and against the skin at certain locations to protect the skin prior to lighting the moxa on the end of the needles. Once the moxa is done burning, the moxa is then removed, and the needle is allowed to cool prior to removing it.
Who is qualified to use moxibustion?
Properly trained acupuncturists are qualified to use various moxibustion techniques. They are trained how to perform each techniques, whether moxibustion should be used during treatment, which form of moxibustion should be used, and the appropriate places to utilize moxibustion.
How can I learn more about how moxibustion can help me?
You can contact us at info@karmazenacupuncture.com or 512-766-3049. You can also go to our online scheduler to book a FREE consultation and learn how moxibustion can benefit you and help with your current problem. Dr. Katrina Giangarra, D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl. O.M., can assess your condition and formulate a treatment plan specific to your needs. She can answer any questions and go over any concerns that you may have.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
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* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
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Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
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Dr. Katrina Giangarra, DACM, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.
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Isabella (aka Izzy, aka Fluff Nugget) Giangarra
3rd Unofficial Mascot
Calliope (aka Callie) Giangarra
Unofficial Mascot
Esme (aka Ezzy or Ezzers) Giangarra
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Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Located in Spicewood
Karma Zen Acupuncture is located in a serene spot off of Highway-71 in the Bee Creek Business Park as part of the Bee Creek Clinic. Whether you live locally in Spicewood or in the surrounding areas of Briarcliff, Marble Falls, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Austin, or Dripping Springs, we are happy to provide a peaceful and relaxing environment as we help you on your path to better health. The location is a hidden gem as it’s great for those locally, not wanting to travel far, and for those wanting to escape from the more chaotic and busier areas.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
