From the perspective of moxibustion’s effects, it primarily benefits Qi and stabilizes the exterior. Certain acupuncture points can enhance Qi and stabilize the exterior. For the general population, points such as Fengmen (Wind Gate), Feishu (Lung Shu), Dazhui (Great Vertebra), and Hegu (Union Valley) can be used. For individuals with weaker constitutions, especially the elderly, Zusanli (Leg Three Miles) can also be added.
The Dazhui point is well-known for its heat-clearing effects; however, it also has a significant role in invigorating Yang Qi. This point is particularly beneficial when the body’s Yang Qi is deficient and cold. As Dazhui is a point on the Du Mai (Governing Vessel) and intersects with six Yang meridians, it is a crucial point for invigorating Yang Qi in the body.
The Hegu point is located on the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian and is a source point. It is particularly sensitive to both needle and moxibustion stimulation; even a gentle pinch can cause discomfort. When pinching, it is important to push towards the phalanges to enhance stimulation. A key characteristic of source points is their ability to replenish the Qi and blood of their respective meridians. Hegu, being on the Large Intestine Meridian, is closely related to the Lung Meridian, making it an excellent point for dispelling wind and resolving the exterior, as well as protecting Wei Qi. If it is inconvenient to access Dazhui, Feishu, or Fengmen, Zusanli and Hegu can also be used.
For enhancing Qi and stabilizing the exterior, the method of ginger moxibustion is emphasized. First, slice ginger into pieces 0.3 to 0.4 cm thick, with a diameter that corresponds to the size of the moxa cone, typically around 2 cm. The second step is to prepare the moxa cone. Roll the moxa wool in one direction to form a cone shape, or use a tool to compress it tightly, ensuring it burns slowly and produces less ash. The third step is to place the ginger slice on the selected acupuncture point, then ignite the moxa. It is generally recommended to light the tip of the cone and let the fire burn inward. Once the skin around the treated area turns red and the patient feels warmth penetrating into the deeper tissues, the treatment is effective. For health maintenance, the standard duration for moxibustion at each point is 15 to 25 minutes, as individual sensitivity and reactions to stimulation can vary.
Strengthening the Spleen and Harmonizing the Stomach Moxibustion
How can moxibustion be used to harmonize the spleen and stomach? When there is a blockage in the epigastric region and fullness in the spleen, one often feels unable to eat, and after eating, there is a sensation of water sloshing in the stomach. This indicates that the spleen and stomach are weak to a certain extent. When Yang Qi is deficient, water cannot be transformed and accumulates in this area. While acupuncture can help strengthen the spleen and stomach, if there is already a sloshing sound, it indicates the presence of Yin water accumulation, thus moxibustion is needed. For treating the epigastric area, the main acupuncture points are Pishu (Spleen Shu), Weishu (Stomach Shu), Zhongwan (Middle Cavity), and Zusanli (Leg Three Miles). If there are symptoms of abdominal distension and abnormal bowel movements, the spleen and stomach are often weak, usually leading to diarrhea, though in some cases constipation may occur, characterized by weak bowel movements but the ability to pass soft stools. For this type of constipation, the Tianshu (Heavenly Pivot) point can be added.
For harmonizing the spleen and stomach, the method of circular moxibustion is recommended. The specific technique involves igniting the moxa stick and holding it 2 to 3 cm away from the skin, then moving it in a circular motion above the acupuncture point at a gentle speed, or following the direction of the meridian in a linear circular motion. Depending on individual circumstances, moxibustion can be performed for 15 to 30 minutes until the sensation of warmth penetrates.
Calming the Spirit and Settling the Mind Moxibustion
Currently, 35% of women are troubled by insomnia, and this number is continuously increasing worldwide. Moxibustion can also be used to treat insomnia, providing a calming and sedative effect.
First, the acupuncture points with calming effects can be divided into two groups for alternating use. The first group includes Baihui (Hundred Meetings), Yintang (Hall of Impression), Sanyinjiao (Three Yin Intersection), Taixi (Great Stream), and Shenmen (Spirit Gate). The second group includes Xinshu (Heart Shu), Pishu (Spleen Shu), Ganshu (Liver Shu), Shenshu (Kidney Shu), and Ge Shu (Diaphragm Shu), which are relatively easy to locate as they are all on the back.
Among these points, it is crucial to emphasize Baihui, Shenmen, and Sanyinjiao, as they are particularly important for treating insomnia, functioning similarly to sedatives. Regardless of the cause of insomnia, these three points are generally used together.
For treating insomnia, the gentle moxibustion method is recommended. Gentle moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses the warmth generated by ignited moxa sticks to stimulate acupuncture points for therapeutic purposes. There are several key points to note with gentle moxibustion: first, the distance from the skin; second, whether there are any hand movements during the moxibustion process; and third, observing the skin color, as the patient’s sensations determine the duration of moxibustion.
In gentle moxibustion, maintain a relatively fixed distance of 2 to 3 cm from the skin with the ignited moxa stick. Then, moxibustion should be performed for the required duration, which depends on the acupuncture point, condition, and the patient’s situation. For example, if the skin turns slightly red and the patient feels warmth penetrating, the treatment can be concluded. The body should be relaxed during moxibustion to ensure smooth circulation of Qi and blood.
In gentle moxibustion, for cold conditions, the duration can be adjusted based on personal sensations, while for heat conditions, the duration should generally be shorter.
When performing moxibustion on these calming points, there are some precautions to consider. When moxibustion is applied to the head, timing is particularly important; otherwise, it can easily lead to dizziness. If the patient is very deficient or sensitive, care should be taken not to apply moxibustion for too long on the Baihui point. Secondly, when moxibustion is applied to the Yintang point, it is best to have some support to avoid fatigue, allowing the wrist to move freely. The most critical aspect of gentle moxibustion is maintaining a relatively fixed distance from the skin at the acupuncture point; this distance is not constant but can be adjusted. Within the first five minutes, if it does not feel warm, the moxa can be brought closer, and once the heat sensation increases, it should be moved further away. During moxibustion, placing fingers around the acupuncture point helps gauge distance and heat sensation.
Phlegm Resolving and Lipid Lowering Moxibustion
Hyperlipidemia is closely related to cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, and other conditions, and this state is associated with high blood lipids and phlegm. In traditional Chinese medicine, phlegm can be both tangible and intangible. The phlegm that is coughed up is tangible, while some individuals may be overweight, have a thick and greasy tongue coating, or even show no symptoms but feel dizzy and have tinnitus; this may also be considered phlegm. Hyperlipidemia can also be classified as a type of phlegm. Moxibustion for phlegm resolution and lipid lowering is aimed at relatively overweight individuals or those who feel heavy and drowsy, unable to wake up easily. Some may not yet show symptoms but have elevated blood lipids upon testing, which can also be equated with phlegm.
In moxibustion, there are several acupuncture points that can help lower blood lipids and resolve phlegm. The points for lipid lowering and phlegm resolution can be divided into two groups: the first group includes Gongsun (Yin Mound), Zhongwan (Middle Cavity), Zhangmen (Chapter Gate), Fenglong (Abundant Dragon), and Yinlingquan (Yin Mound Spring); the second group includes Lieque (Broken Sequence), Weishu (Stomach Shu), Pishu (Spleen Shu), Ge Shu (Diaphragm Shu), and Sanjiao Shu (Triple Burner Shu). The Zhongwan point is often the first choice for many digestive system diseases, as it can strengthen the stomach and spleen and enhance the body’s transformation functions, making it also the first choice for lipid lowering. Fenglong is known for phlegm resolution, while Yinlingquan is more focused on dampness removal; phlegm and dampness are closely related, so when combined with Zhongwan, these three points can effectively strengthen the spleen and resolve phlegm, with Fenglong being particularly effective in lowering triglycerides. Other points that family members can help with at home include Weishu, Pishu, Ge Shu, and Sanjiao Shu, which all help strengthen the spleen and stomach, resolve phlegm, and promote smoothness; Sanjiao Shu and Lieque also have dampness-reducing effects.
The most suitable moxibustion technique for phlegm resolution and lipid lowering is the sparrow pecking moxibustion. When holding the moxa stick, the hand resembles a small bird pecking, hence the name. The technique involves varying the distance from the acupuncture point, coming closer when descending and raising it when lifting, creating a pattern of alternating strong and weak stimulation. The previously mentioned gentle moxibustion is more nourishing, while sparrow pecking moxibustion is more depleting. The duration of moxibustion is generally 15 to 30 minutes, and for patients with cold deficiency, the time can be extended, with the goal being to achieve skin redness or warmth penetrating.
In addition to phlegm resolution and lipid lowering, sparrow pecking moxibustion is also used for the following situations: in emergencies, for certain childhood diseases, correcting fetal positions, and for conditions like agalactia.
Strengthening the Kidneys and Nourishing the Foundation Moxibustion
How can moxibustion be used to harmonize the spleen and stomach? When there is a blockage in the epigastric region and fullness in the spleen, one often feels unable to eat, and after eating, there is a sensation of water sloshing in the stomach. This indicates that the spleen and stomach are weak to a certain extent. When Yang Qi is deficient, water cannot be transformed and accumulates in this area. If acupuncture alone can strengthen the spleen and stomach, but if there is already a sloshing sound, it indicates the presence of Yin water accumulation, thus moxibustion is needed. For treating the epigastric area, the main acupuncture points are Pishu (Spleen Shu), Weishu (Stomach Shu), Zhongwan (Middle Cavity), and Zusanli (Leg Three Miles). If there are symptoms of abdominal distension and abnormal bowel movements, the spleen and stomach are often weak, usually leading to diarrhea, though in some cases constipation may occur, characterized by weak bowel movements but the ability to pass soft stools. For this type of constipation, the Tianshu (Heavenly Pivot) point can be added.
For harmonizing the spleen and stomach, the method of circular moxibustion is recommended. The specific technique involves igniting the moxa stick and holding it 2 to 3 cm away from the skin, then moving it in a circular motion above the acupuncture point at a gentle speed, or following the direction of the meridian in a linear circular motion. Depending on individual circumstances, moxibustion can be performed for 15 to 30 minutes until the sensation of warmth penetrates.
Unblocking Meridians and Alleviating Pain Moxibustion
Joint pain can arise from several causes, with wind, cold, and dampness being the primary factors, particularly cold, which can cause severe pain. Another significant cause is blood stasis, where various factors lead to blood stasis that blocks the meridians, resulting in pain. Additionally, insufficient Qi and blood can also lead to pain. Common joint pain among the public is often related to insufficient nourishment of the liver and kidneys. If the pain is muscular, it may relate to the spleen, and sometimes skin pain can be associated with the lungs.
For pain relief, moxibustion can be applied to points including Dazhui (Great Vertebra), Quchi (Pool at the Crook), Guanyuan (Origin Pass), Shenque (Spirit Gate), Houxi (Back Stream), Shenmai (Sinew Vessel), and Zusanli (Leg Three Miles). Dazhui helps to unblock the meridians and invigorate Yang Qi, while Guanyuan nourishes Kidney Yang; these two points can alleviate pain when present and prevent it when absent. Quchi and Zusanli are also suitable for systemic pain. In addition to these four points, if the patient experiences upper limb pain, the Houxi point can be added, which is located in the depression at the outer side of the wrist crease when the fist is clenched. Houxi is a point on the Small Intestine Meridian that can help unblock Yang Qi in the upper limbs. Shenmai is located in the depression below the outer ankle bone and can be used for lower limb pain, as it helps to extend Yang Qi.
For joint pain, the technique of pressing moxibustion can be used, which involves igniting the end of the moxa stick (usually a medicinal moxa stick) and pressing it tightly against the acupuncture point through several layers of cloth or cotton paper, allowing the heat to penetrate the skin. Once the fire diminishes, it can be reignited and pressed again. Each point can be pressed several times to dozens of times. This method is suitable for various wind and cold pains. If the pain is severe, it can be performed once or twice daily; for health maintenance, once or twice a week is sufficient. Since pressing moxibustion does not burn the skin, it is generally safe for everyone to use.
Strengthening Tendons and Bones Moxibustion
Most elderly individuals are prone to symptoms such as hunching and back pain. If the body feels weak and sore for an extended period, it may indicate osteoporosis. Calcium loss is a significant cause of osteoporosis, and prolonged sitting and lack of exercise can lead to calcium deficiency.
Thus, calcium storage is crucial for the body, and certain acupuncture points can help reduce calcium loss and strengthen bones, including Dazhui (Great Vertebra), Xuanzhong (Suspended Bell), and Yanglingquan (Yang Mound Spring). Dazhui is related to the bones of the entire body and is located 1.5 inches lateral to the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra, which can strengthen the bones. Xuanzhong is related to the marrow, as bone marrow nourishes the bones, and is located 3 inches above the outer ankle bone, which can nourish the marrow. Strengthening bones also requires strengthening the tendons, and Yanglingquan is the point that governs the tendons. Additionally, Zusanli and Sanyinjiao can be added, as these two points manage the muscles, and strengthening the muscles can also strengthen the body.
For moxibustion at these points, the previously mentioned methods can be applied. If one prefers not to use hands, a warming moxibustion device can be used. The specific method involves inserting the ignited moxa stick from above. Initially, when it is not very hot, it can be held closer to the skin, about 1 cm away, and after two to three minutes of moxibustion, it can be gradually raised. Generally, moxibustion for 5 to 10 minutes can achieve the desired effect.
In addition to dietary considerations, soaking feet in warm moxa leaf water is also beneficial for daily health. Moxa leaves can be used externally and internally; they are commonly used for various gynecological diseases and for conditions related to cold dampness, as they help regulate blood and Qi, stop bleeding, and promote sleep.
Regulating the Chong and Ren Meridians Moxibustion
You may have heard of the Eight Extraordinary Meridians, but may not fully understand what they are, where they are located, and their functions. If there are issues with the Eight Extraordinary Meridians, the first health risks that may arise are reproductive system diseases. This means that individuals suffering from gynecological issues or male prostate problems can effectively use Chong and Ren Meridian moxibustion to address these concerns.
The main acupuncture points for regulating the Chong and Ren meridians are Guanyuan (Origin Pass) and Zhongji (Middle Extreme), located three and four inches below the navel, respectively. Additionally, the Sanyinjiao (Three Yin Intersection) point on the leg should be included. Another important point to recommend is Taichong (Great Surge), which is located similarly to Hegu on the hand.
Promoting Growth and Development Moxibustion
Joint pain can arise from several causes, with wind, cold, and dampness being the primary factors, particularly cold, which can cause severe pain. Another significant cause is blood stasis, where various factors lead to blood stasis that blocks the meridians, resulting in pain. Additionally, insufficient Qi and blood can also lead to pain. Common joint pain among the public is often related to insufficient nourishment of the liver and kidneys. If the pain is muscular, it may relate to the spleen, and sometimes skin pain can be associated with the lungs.
For pain relief, moxibustion can be applied to points including Dazhui (Great Vertebra), Quchi (Pool at the Crook), Guanyuan (Origin Pass), Shenque (Spirit Gate), Houxi (Back Stream), Shenmai (Sinew Vessel), and Zusanli (Leg Three Miles). Dazhui helps to unblock the meridians and invigorate Yang Qi, while Guanyuan nourishes Kidney Yang; these two points can alleviate pain when present and prevent it when absent. Quchi and Zusanli are also suitable for systemic pain. In addition to these four points, if the patient experiences upper limb pain, the Houxi point can be added, which is located in the depression at the outer side of the wrist crease when the fist is clenched. Houxi is a point on the Small Intestine Meridian that can help unblock Yang Qi in the upper limbs. Shenmai is located in the depression below the outer ankle bone and can be used for lower limb pain, as it helps to extend Yang Qi.
For joint pain, the technique of pressing moxibustion can be used, which involves igniting the end of the moxa stick (usually a medicinal moxa stick) and pressing it tightly against the acupuncture point through several layers of cloth or cotton paper, allowing the heat to penetrate the skin. Once the fire diminishes, it can be reignited and pressed again. Each point can be pressed several times to dozens of times. This method is suitable for various wind and cold pains. If the pain is severe, it can be performed once or twice daily; for health maintenance, once or twice a week is sufficient. Since pressing moxibustion does not burn the skin, it is generally safe for everyone to use.
Beauty Through Meridian Unblocking Moxibustion
As we age, various skin issues such as melasma and wrinkles become a concern. Age, gravity, hormonal factors, and poor blood circulation can all lead to wrinkles and melasma. When the liver, spleen, and kidneys undergo pathological changes, these symptoms may arise.
For moxibustion targeting melasma, acupuncture points along the Ren Meridian can be selected to replenish Yang and Yin. Points on the Kidney Meridian can replenish the foundation, while points on the Spleen and Stomach Meridians can help regulate Qi and blood. Overall, these meridian points have a significant impact on the face. Additionally, there are many facial acupuncture points; a simple way to remember them is “two bamboo, two white.” The two bamboo points refer to the eyebrows, specifically the Yintang (Hall of Impression) and the tail of the eyebrows, while the two white points refer to Yangbai (Yang White) and Sibai (Four White). Yangbai is located one inch above the midpoint of the eyebrows, and Sibai is located directly below the pupils, in a depression. Mastering these four points around the eyes can help target the most important facial acupuncture points.
For facial beauty moxibustion, if performed at home, gentle moxibustion with moxa sticks is recommended. There are also some moxa sticks available on the market that contain medicinal herbs; if they include blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs, they can be used as well. Additionally, a new moxibustion method using a moxibustion box is introduced. The moxibustion box has several layers, with a metal mesh inside and a surrounding rod, preventing the moxa stick from moving around. After placing the moxa stick or wool inside, arrange them evenly to ensure uniform heat distribution, then ignite the moxa stick. If using gentle moxibustion, only one area can be treated at a time, while using a moxibustion box allows for larger areas to be treated simultaneously.
When using a moxibustion box, there are some precautions to consider. Many patients report feeling warm all over after moxibustion, and some may even sweat. Therefore, it is advisable to drink warm water after moxibustion, especially after longer sessions, to facilitate sweat excretion and improve the circulation of Qi and blood in the body.
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