Moxa

Jim Damman (Loveland, CO), a licensed acupuncturist and instructor,  discusses the use of the herb moxa and how it applies to the practicing acupuncture.

Moxa is an herbal variation of mugwort that has been consistently used for medicinal purposes in both traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine for years. It is ground up or rolled up into a consistency similar to that of wool, and comes in a variety of ways including in sticks, cigar-like rolls, and even in large quantites in bags.

Moxa is used in addition to, and often before, acupuncture needles and it is burned on or above the skin. In Five Element Acupuncture, the majority of moxa use is with direct skin contact on acupunture points. When used in this fashion, the smoldering herb strengthens Ki and promotes healthy movement within the body. It also feels good.

Another way of using moxa is by waving a cigar-like roll above injured points on the body. This is typically done for injuries like sprains or when someone is emotionally closed off. The warmth and smell of the herb combine to loosen and relax and it also helps increase bloodflow to the area it is warming.