Moxibustion is known for its significant effects, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness, with almost no adverse reactions. However, it is essential to strictly follow the principles of treatment and operational methods during the moxibustion process.
1. The Sequence of Moxibustion is Important
“Moxibustion should begin with Yang points before Yin points, starting from the head and gradually moving downwards to the left,
then from the head to the right, starting from above and moving downwards.”
—— Tang Sun Simiao, “Qian Jin Yao Fang (Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold) · Acupuncture”
The general sequence for moxibustion in clinical practice is: first moxibustion on the upper body → then the lower body; first on the back and waist → then on the chest and abdomen; first on the head → then on the limbs; first on Yang meridian points → then on Yin meridian points; start with a small amount of moxibustion → gradually increase. If the sequence is not followed, such as moxibustion on the lower body before the head, patients may experience discomfort such as heat in the head and face, dry mouth, and throat. The moxibustion should also be adjusted according to the patient’s condition, and should not be rigidly adhered to.
“First moxibustion above, then below; first a small amount,
then a larger amount, moxibustion should be done with caution.”
—— “Xi Fang Zi Ming Tang Jiu Jing (Western Child’s Moxibustion Classic)”
2. Proper Dosage of Moxibustion
The amount of moxibustion is related to the method used. Different moxibustion methods require different dosages. Here, we provide recommendations for the duration and distance of moxibustion using the Ai Yisheng moxibustion device.
1. Duration of Moxibustion
1) Health moxibustion with the moxibustion device:
For points on the head, face, and chest, the moxibustion time is relatively short, recommended for 20-30 minutes;
For the thin-skinned and bony areas at the ends of the limbs, the recommended moxibustion time is 30-40 minutes;
For the waist and abdomen, the recommended moxibustion time is relatively longer, about 40-60 minutes;
2) Foot moxibustion device:
Recommended for 30-60 minutes.
3) Sitting moxibustion device:
Without clothing barrier: recommended for 30-60 minutes.
If moxibustion is done in public places (like living rooms, offices, etc.) with clothing barrier, it can be slightly extended.
4) Targeted moxibustion for specific conditions:
It is recommended to extend the time based on health moxibustion, once a day, with a course of 10 days.
【Note】The duration of moxibustion for children should be slightly shorter than for adults, and should be adjusted according to the child’s age and physical condition. (Children under three years old must be guided by professionals.)
The above is only a suggestion for the duration of moxibustion using the Ai Yisheng device; the specific duration should be adjusted according to one’s physical condition and should not be rigidly adhered to.
2. Distance of Moxibustion
The moxibustion head should be kept 5-15 cm away from the skin, and should be adjusted flexibly according to the patient’s perception of heat.
3. Precautions for Moxibustion
1. Before moxibustion, maintain a calm mood, avoiding significant emotional fluctuations. Also, drink a cup of warm water (the water temperature should be higher than body temperature) before moxibustion. During moxibustion, keep warm and avoid drafts; in summer, avoid air conditioning during moxibustion to prevent catching a cold.
2. If dizziness occurs during moxibustion, stop immediately, let the patient lie down and rest, and drink some warm water; recovery should be quick.
3. During moxibustion, periodically place your hand on the moxibustion area to sense the local heat level, allowing for timely adjustments to the distance to avoid burns, especially when moxibustion is performed on children.
4. Moxibustion will cause some moisture to evaporate through the skin; after moxibustion, drink more water (preferably warm) or consume porridge to help the organs expel toxins from the body.
5. If there are post-moxibustion discomforts such as body heat, dizziness, or irritability, allow the patient to move appropriately and drink a small amount of warm water.
6. After moxibustion, some may experience symptoms like heat, skin itching, rashes, fatigue, constipation, yellow urine, sweating, toothache, tinnitus, irregular vaginal bleeding, or general discomfort. Generally, there is no need to panic; these symptoms will disappear with continued moxibustion. You can also moxibustion on the Zusanli (足三里) point and Yongquan (涌泉) point to help reduce heat, and drink more water. If necessary, stop moxibustion or do it every other day; these symptoms will quickly resolve.
7. After moxibustion, maintain a calm mood, striving to forget about illness and worries, which will help achieve better therapeutic effects from moxibustion.
8. Do not take a bath immediately after moxibustion; generally, it is better to bathe after moxibustion. Alternatively, wait a few hours after moxibustion before bathing.
9. After moxibustion, avoid eating raw, cold, spicy, or fatty foods; do not drink alcohol or smoke. The diet should be light, with plenty of vegetables and fruits, and moderate protein intake. Avoid overeating, but you can eat smaller meals more frequently.
10. Some people may experience constipation after moxibustion; honey, lotus root, and celery can be used for adjustment.
11. In terms of lifestyle, maintain moderation in sexual activity and ensure adequate sleep.
12. Avoid heavy physical labor and reduce daily screen time (internet, TV).
13. Exercise is the best form of health maintenance. Post-moxibustion activities can include walking, Tai Chi, or yoga, but avoid vigorous exercise.
14. Some chronic conditions should be treated with conventional medication alongside moxibustion therapy, while acute conditions should be promptly addressed at a hospital, combining moxibustion as an adjunct therapy.
Previous Exciting Articles on Moxibustion:
(Click on the article title you wish to read to jump to that article page)
1.“What is Moxibustion? Why Can Moxibustion Treat Illness?”
2. “What Are the Benefits of Moxibustion?”
3. “Why Should We Do Moxibustion?”
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Ai Yisheng
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