Moxabustion
Receiving moxibustion (moxa) is a deeply rejuvenating experience in which the soft fuzz from the underside of the mugwort leaf is burned close the skin. It is used in Chinese medicine for:
Warming and revitalizing the body
Invigorating the flow of energy and blood
Boosting the Wei Qi or protective energy.
What to expect
When receiving moxa you will typically feel relaxed and warm deep inside your core. Usually you’ll feel a gentle warmth similar to sunshine, or that warm feeling that comes with a glass of good scotch.
We always ensure the amount of warmth you feel is comfortable. Moxa is always removed before it gets too hot.
The history of moxibustion
Chinese medicine doctors have used moxibustion to centuries to warm the body, stimulate blood flow and regulate physiological processes. Historically, moxa was used by travelling merchants and diplomats to boost their Wei Qi or protective energy and prevent them from getting sick on their travels.
Research related to moxibustion
A 2018 randomised controlled trial showed that moxibustion may be effective in reducing pain, reducing muscular tension in the lower back and increasing quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis.
Another 2018 study concluded that moxa reduced the necessary dosage of opiates and increased immune response in cancer patients with pain.
A 2017 met-analysis concluded that combined acupuncture and moxa treatment may be more effective than herbal medicine, western medicine or sham acupuncture in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.
In this 2018 study, adjuvant moxibustion therapy improved response to TB medication, even in those also suffering from HIV.