Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a traditional tool used in Chinese Medicine. It is often used in conjunction with acupuncture. It is a process which involves the burning of a herb in order to heat up an acupuncture needle whilst it remains in situ. It can also be used to heat up an area of the skin (even if it is not the location of a known acupoint).

The herb used for moxibustion is called Ai Ye in Mandarin or Mugwort Leaf in English. This may sound familiar to some of you since Mugwort has historically been used in witchcraft. Next time you watch Harry Potter, keep an ear out. You will hear it being listed in some of the potions.

Mugwort has an ability of burning at a very high temperature. All involved must be very careful not to incur a burn or blister. To assist application, it can be rolled up in similar manner to a cigar or it can be directly placed on a needle.

Little is understood about the mechanism of how moxibustion works. Science is yet to account for it said healing properties. Some think the heat is the main therapeutic property. From anecdotal observation, I am not sure of this claim. There seems to more to it than simply that. In meantime I eagerly await an explanation.