1. Nourish the spleen and stomach, and ensure good eating habits (consume warm drinks and foods, eat more foods that grow in the soil, avoid overeating, and focus on seasonal and locally grown foods), ensure good sleep (sleep by 11 PM to nourish qi and blood, preventing depletion of the spleen and stomach), and maintain emotional balance, especially avoiding liver qi stagnation to prevent wood from overpowering earth, which affects spleen and stomach function. Furthermore, fire is the mother of earth; to nourish the spleen and stomach, one must warm yang and supplement fire. Moxibustion is most effective, particularly at the Zusanli (足三里) and Zhongwan (中脘) points.
2. The method of moxibustion originates from the burning of fire; the aroma of mugwort is fragrant, its nature is warm and easily ignitable, and its heat is gentle, making it most suitable for moxibustion. Moxibustion first appeared in the north, where the cold and harsh winds can easily cause internal cold in the organs; moxibustion can warm and promote yang to alleviate discomfort. Later generations of physicians have placed great emphasis on moxibustion; for instance, Wang Tao from the Tang Dynasty wrote the “Secret Essentials of External Treatments,” even discarding needles in favor of moxibustion, indicating its high regard. Moxibustion is quite popular in Japan, likely because its needles are too fine and do not achieve the same quick effects as moxibustion.
3. While moxibustion can certainly promote health, its primary function is to treat diseases, addressing both minor and major ailments. For example, ancient practitioners treated abdominal masses by applying moxibustion to the Pigen (痞根) point, treated scrofula by moxibusting the elbow tip, treated mental disorders by moxibusting the Guikui (鬼哭) point, treated dysentery by moxibusting one inch beside the Mingmen (命门) point, and treated warts and moles by moxibusting the fist tip, among others. The efficacy of moxibustion is extremely strong, capable of reviving yang and rescuing the vital essence. Every practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) should be adept at using moxibustion.
4. Rhinitis manifests as nasal congestion, itching, clear nasal discharge, and even headaches and dizziness. Analyzing from a TCM perspective, the lungs open to the nose, and nasal diseases are often related to the failure of lung qi to descend and disperse. The lungs and large intestine are interrelated, and patients can perform moxibustion on the Yingxiang (迎香) and Hegu (合谷) points, which is a method of selecting points from both ends. The Yingxiang point is at the tail end of the large intestine, which can open the nasal passages, while the Hegu point, located closer to the head, can enhance the ability to dispel cold and open the orifices. Using both points together often yields rapid results.
5. After the autumn equinox, dryness begins to arise. Water flows with humidity, while fire becomes dry, each following its nature. Excessive dryness leads to symptoms such as skin cracking and depletion of essence and blood. Moxibustion can support yang, and it can also stimulate fire; if the fire becomes excessive, it can easily increase dryness. Therefore, after the autumn equinox, if there is no yang deficiency and excessive yin, one should not overuse moxibustion to avoid disturbing the fire. If excessive moxibustion leads to internal dryness, one can appropriately consume seasonal fruits or take nourishing yin and clearing dryness soups, which can nourish yin and alleviate dryness.
6. The Baihui (百会) point can elevate yang; particularly, moxibusting the Baihui point is most effective in uplifting yang qi. Anyone with weak yang qi, pale complexion, and lack of vitality can benefit from moxibustion at the Baihui point. However, after a certain amount of moxibustion at the Baihui point, one should take breaks of three to five days and use a three-edged needle to prick and release blood around the point, ensuring efficacy while preventing discomfort such as dizziness and spasms caused by excessive elevation of yang qi. If yang qi rises too high, one can also use equal amounts of Wu Zhu Yu (吴茱萸) and Xi Xin (细辛) ground into a fine powder, mixed with vinegar for external application at the Yongquan (涌泉) point for two hours each time.
7. The heart houses the sovereign fire; when the heart’s yang qi is strong, the sovereign fire is bright, and the person is naturally spirited, quick-witted, passionate, and unafraid of difficulties. If the heart’s yang is weak and the sovereign fire dim, the person will be listless, slow in thought, lacking passion, and retreating in the face of challenges. The heart corresponds to summer, when fire is abundant, and the heart’s yang is also strong; in winter, when water is abundant and fire declines, the heart’s yang is more prone to weaken, leading to depression. Those with weak heart yang should perform moxibustion at the Baihui point in winter and engage in more social interactions to prevent depression.
8. In clinical practice, it is important to pay attention to the Jing points, which often yield remarkable effects. Here are some experiences I commonly use with Jing points: For metrorrhagia, moxibustion at the Yinbai (隐白) or Dadu (大敦) points often has rapid effects; for abnormal fetal position, acupuncture or moxibustion at the Zhiyin (至阴) point has an almost 100% cure rate; for mental disorders, moxibustion at the Shaoshang (少商) point is very effective; for sore throat, pricking and bleeding at the Shaoshang or Shangyang (商阳) points leads to quick recovery; for cervical spondylosis causing finger numbness, pricking and bleeding at the Shixuan (十宣) points is effective; for postpartum lack of milk, acupuncture at the Shaoze (少泽) point is effective; for children’s night crying, pricking the Zhongchong (中冲) point slightly to induce bleeding leads to rapid recovery. Pricking and moxibusting the Shaoshang point is extremely effective for nosebleeds; moxibustion at the Yongquan point or applying Wu Zhu Yu powder can effectively lower high blood pressure and alleviate insomnia; acupuncture at the Yongquan point has the effects of awakening the mind, opening the orifices, and promoting diuresis and lactation, used for unconsciousness, urinary retention, and insufficient milk production; for head and facial diseases, acupuncture at the Zhiyin point, especially for posterior headaches, is effective; pricking the Shaoshang point to induce bleeding treats children’s pneumonia, high fever, or epidemic mumps with remarkable effects.
9. Some netizens say: I love moxibustion, but I can’t stand the smoke, which makes my home smell unpleasant. What should I do? In fact, there are many types of moxibustion; it is not limited to moxa sticks, but also includes moxa cones, warm needle moxibustion, and warm moxibustion devices. In particular, the grain-sized moxibustion method, where the moxa cone is the size of a grain of wheat, produces very little smoke when burned, and can be removed as soon as it becomes slightly hot, providing rapid effects without the disturbance of moxa smoke. Additionally, there are moxibustion methods using ginger, garlic, or salt, where the moxa cones are the size of peanuts, producing minimal smoke.
10. For infertility, in addition to taking herbal decoctions and acupuncture, what self-treatment should patients perform? I often advise patients to perform moxibustion at the Yinlian (阴廉) point. This point is located on the inner thigh, two inches below the Qi Chong (气冲) point, where there is a noticeable arterial pulse upon pressing. Using a moxa stick for suspended moxibustion at this point for twenty minutes can significantly warm the uterus. Many patients report that moxibustion at this point is more effective in warming the lower abdomen than at the Yongquan point. Furthermore, moxibustion at the Yinlian point can also treat male infertility, as it can be used for cases of abnormal sperm count.
11. When treating diseases, the key is to achieve high efficacy, preferably without toxic side effects, and to avoid harm, while also achieving rapid results. Among various treatment methods, dietary therapy is the safest; if acupuncture and tuina can be used, there is no need for medication; if TCM can resolve the issue, surgery should not be the first choice; surgery and chemotherapy should always be the last resort. Sometimes treating diseases is very simple, for example, for colds and fevers, moxibustion at the Dazhui (大椎) and Fengchi (风池) points can yield rapid results; why resort to IV fluids?
12. A female patient from Austria suffered from infertility for eight years. After more than ten acupuncture sessions, she became pregnant, and her child is now five years old. She has returned for acupuncture, expressing a desire to have another child. Over the years, I have treated many infertility patients with satisfactory results. Currently, infertility is common, and I analyze its common causes as three: either cold congealing, blood deficiency, or blood stasis, all related to the uterus. I often select points such as Guanyuan (关元), Zhongji (中极), Guilai (归来), Ziwang (子宫), Zusanli (足三里), and Sanyinjiao (三阴交), adjusting according to the symptoms, sometimes combining with moxibustion.
13. Some people ask: Can children receive moxibustion at the Zusanli point? Generally, it is advisable to start moxibustion at the Zusanli point for health maintenance only after the age of thirty, as it can help maintain gastrointestinal function and prevent depletion of vital energy. Children have immature yin and yang; if excessive moxibustion is applied at the Zusanli point, it can easily provoke fire, leading to heat accumulation in the middle jiao and causing illness. Therefore, moxibustion can be used for children, but only during illness, such as for colds and fevers, using a moxa stick for gentle moxibustion at the Dazhui or Shenzhu (身柱) points, but it is important to stop as soon as the illness resolves, and not to overdo it.
14. For symptoms caused by cold and stagnation, such as joint swelling and pain, tumors, hyperplasia, and cysts, it is necessary to nourish and promote yang, as strong yang can transform qi, and the stagnation of yin can disperse. How can one nourish and promote yang? I believe that one should eat warm foods instead of cold; consume warming foods instead of cooling; bask in the sun instead of hiding from it; exercise instead of being overly lazy; drink ginger sugar water in the morning and soak feet in hot water before bed; and frequently perform moxibustion, among other methods.
15. Some people ask: Can moxibustion be applied to areas of hyperplasia? If the body’s yang does not transform qi, then yin stagnation will condense and form. Therefore, it is said that any pathological product that has formed can be treated with moxibustion. For example, various lumps, hyperplasia, nodules, cysts, lipomas, and fibroids can all be treated with warm moxibustion at the local area to promote the flow of yang qi.
16. During the cold season, when the weather is cold and cold waves arrive, it increases the chill. If a person with insufficient yang qi suddenly encounters cold, they are most likely to fall ill. At this time, health maintenance focuses on preventing cold and keeping warm to nourish yang. Drinking ginger sugar water in the morning can elevate and nourish yang; moxibustion is the best method to warm yang; the colder it is, the more one should perform moxibustion; meals should be warm, and consuming hot and spicy hot pot can effectively promote yang qi; one should avoid exposure to cold when sweating; and morning exercises in cold winds are not recommended, as they are not conducive to health and can easily lead to illness.
17. Many people experience cold hands and feet every winter, and some even have cold extremities throughout the winter. From a TCM perspective, this is known as “four reversals,” indicating that yang qi cannot circulate to the extremities. The reasons can be either stagnation or yang deficiency. If it is stagnation, the method should be to promote circulation; Zhang Zhongjing’s Four Reversal Powder can be used; if it is yang deficiency, then warming yang is necessary, using formulas like Four Reversal Decoction. Acupuncture can relieve stagnation and warm yang; moxibustion is most suitable for those with yang deficiency, and moxibustion can be performed at the Guanyuan or Yongquan points.
18. A female patient experienced urinary incontinence when running or jumping five years ago and underwent surgery to secure her bladder. After the surgery, she developed a tightening sensation in her lower abdomen, followed by recurrent cystitis, and has been taking antibiotics without improvement. The root of the problem lies in the inability of yang qi to rise; moxibustion at the Baihui point should yield good results. However, the excessive use of surgery has harmed the vital energy, leading to multiple symptoms. Acupuncture at the Zhongji, Guanyuan, and Dahe (大赫) points can stabilize the lower jiao, while the Sanyinjiao point opens the bladder orifices, warming the lower abdomen and alleviating discomfort.
19. The great physician Wang Zhizhong from the Song Dynasty wrote the “Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” which contains many clinical experiences. He stated, “Some have long suffered from head wind; I instructed them to moxibust the Sihui point, and they were cured.” This point is particularly effective in dispelling head wind. Wind is the chief of all diseases, adept at invading yang positions; the head is the highest part of the body, where all yang converges. If external wind evil invades the brain orifices, causing headaches, dizziness, nasal congestion, drowsiness, or convulsions in children, one can select the Sihui point. For excess conditions, acupuncture is used; for deficiency conditions, moxibustion is applied, often yielding rapid results.
20. If one wishes to perform moxibustion without leaving large scars, the following method can be used: roll aged moxa into small cone shapes, about the size of a grain of rice or half a grain of rice. First, rub the acupuncture point with slices of fresh ginger or garlic, then place the small moxa cone on the point and light it with an incense stick. When the moxa cone burns down, it will cause a prickling sensation; it can be immediately removed with tweezers or extinguished with ginger or garlic slices. This is one method I often use, performing one to seven cones of moxibustion at each point each time.
21. Many people say that heat conditions should avoid moxibustion, or that yin deficiency should not be treated with moxibustion. This viewpoint is worth discussing. We know that moxibustion can warm and supplement deficiency, stimulating declining functions, but it can also suppress excessive functions, bringing them towards balance. Moxibustion is a beneficial stimulation for the body; it can invigorate the body’s vital energy, supplement deficiency, and drain excess, making it applicable for both patients and healthy individuals. Of course, if there is yin deficiency and yang excess, moxibustion must be applied with care and skill, and should not be overused.
22. For children with diarrhea, moxibustion at the Tianshu (天枢) or Hegu points is generally effective. For chronic diarrhea or acute diarrhea where other methods are ineffective, moxibustion at the Mingmen point should be performed. In my understanding, moxibustion at the Mingmen can mobilize the yang qi in the kidneys, producing rapid effects. This method is similar to the action of western medicine’s cortisone, but without the many side effects of cortisone. Therefore, moxibustion at the Mingmen can be used not only for children’s diarrhea but also for adults’ diarrhea. Furthermore, any chronic diseases related to the kidneys can also benefit from moxibustion at the Mingmen.
23. If a child is exposed to wind and cold, develops a fever, and has clear nasal discharge and diarrhea, but is still in good spirits, moxibustion can be performed at the two Hegu points while the child is asleep, using gentle moxibustion with a moxa stick, observing as the cheeks gradually become rosy, and after ten minutes of moxibustion, the fever subsides. After two consecutive treatments, all symptoms resolved. When children are affected by evils, the symptoms are often mild; it is best for parents to learn some TCM knowledge for quick recovery and to avoid the excessive use of antibiotics. If the evil qi penetrates deeply, serious illnesses may arise.
24. What is the best time for daily moxibustion? Some patients report that they feel the effects of moxibustion most significantly in the morning and at noon, while the effects are least at night. Analyzing from a TCM perspective, the yang qi of the human body rises in the morning and is at its peak at noon; therefore, performing moxibustion at this time can promote the rising and floating of yang qi, making it suitable for conditions of yang deficiency and insufficient yang qi. If one wishes to gather fire and direct it downwards, then the evening is better, as the yang qi of the body gathers and stores at night; moxibustion at the Yongquan point can effectively harness the power of heaven and earth to gather floating fire.
25. The medical records from the Jin Dynasty physician Li Dongyuan documented a case of excessive moxibustion: “In the past, there was someone who was weak in qi during youth and often moxibusted the Qihai (气海) and Zusanli points, performing about fifty to seventy cones each time. As he aged, he developed heat stroke and headaches, and even in the cold of winter, he still preferred cold winds. His headaches would worsen when he encountered warmth or smoke, and he suffered for five to seven years without recovery, all due to excessive moxibustion.” The moxibustion password reminds us that: those with weak qi can benefit from moxibustion, as it has the effect of nurturing the original qi. However, it should not be overdone.
26. When the yang qi of the body rises, the mind becomes clear; when the yang qi sinks, the mind becomes dull and sleepy. Elderly individuals often doze off while reading newspapers or watching television during the day, and some even fall asleep while talking, or find it difficult to wake up after sleeping, experiencing numbness in their hands and feet and sluggish movements. These are all responses indicating that yang qi is not circulating properly, which Western medicine considers a precursor to cerebrovascular disease. Timely administration of herbal decoctions or acupuncture is most effective, and moxibustion can be applied at the Zusanli, Xuanzhong (悬钟), and Baihui points.
27. Treating major and severe diseases requires both increasing resources and conserving energy, with three key points: first, one must nourish the original qi, as it is the foundation of life; however, merely supplementing the original qi is not enough; balance and regulation are also necessary. For example, moxibustion at the Hangu (膏肓) point may lead to excessive floating of deficiency fire, so it should be combined with acupuncture at the Zusanli or Qihai points to direct the fire downwards, preventing excessive floating of deficiency fire; second, one must clear the heart; a calm heart prevents the sovereign fire from moving, and the original qi will not be uprooted; third, one must abstain from desires, so as not to waste kidney essence.
28. Some people are overly concerned about machine examination indicators, and even slight abnormalities lead to repeated medication. Someone brought a B-scan report, stating they had taken many antibiotics but still had pelvic effusion; what should they do? Pelvic effusion is often due to deficiency of yang in the uterus, leading to poor qi transformation and retention of fluid. Therefore, nourishing yang is key to treating pelvic effusion (either through herbal decoctions or moxibustion at the Guanyuan point is excellent). Excessive use of antibiotics may provide temporary relief but can damage yang qi, leading to recurrence.
29. Some individuals experience recurrent miscarriages after three to four months of pregnancy. This is known as habitual abortion, often due to insufficient true essence, instability of the Chong and Ren channels, and inability of yang qi to secure the pregnancy. In addition to dietary adjustments, avoiding sexual activity, and actively treating with herbal decoctions, moxibustion can also be combined. The moxibustion password reminds you that moxibustion can support yang, suppress yin, secure original qi, and warm and open the meridians. Moxibustion can be performed at the Guanyuan or Zhongji points, with regular warming moxibustion to secure the Chong and Ren channels and stabilize original qi. This method can also treat dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, and infertility caused by cold.
30. Some people have a misunderstanding about diabetes, believing it can only be controlled and not completely cured. They do not realize that with proper use of acupuncture and herbal decoctions, many cases of diabetes can be completely cured. I place great emphasis on acupuncture for this condition, as it can harmonize the organs and balance yin and yang. Moxibustion can be applied at the Shenshu (肾俞), Pishu (脾俞), Ganshu (肝俞), as well as Zhongwan, Quchi (曲池), Zusanli, and Taixi (太溪) points, using small moxa cones for light moxibustion of two to three cones at each point, supplemented with acupuncture.
31. True qi is derived from heaven, combined with the qi of food and water, filling the body. If true qi is about to escape, the five organs and six bowels become empty, and the original spirit has no place to reside, leading to confusion of consciousness. To revive the waning life force, moxibustion is essential. Moxibustion can be performed at the Guanyuan point, which is the intersection of original yin and yang, the sea of prenatal qi; moxibustion can also be performed at the Shenque (神阙) point, which is the root of prenatal essence, the entrance and exit of the original spirit. In critical situations, heavy moxibustion with large moxa cones is necessary. There is no limit to the number of cones; prolonged moxibustion is hoped to restore the waning true qi.
32. A netizen asked: How to adjust if one has low immunity and frequently catches colds? From a TCM perspective, the so-called immunity is the function of yang qi to defend against external evils. When yang qi is strong, the defensive function is robust, and external evils are kept at bay, making it less likely to catch colds. If yang qi is weak, external evils can invade, leading to imbalance of the defensive and nutritive qi, making one prone to recurrent colds. The best way to support yang qi is through moxibustion. Regular moxibustion at the Dazhui or Shenzhu points can invigorate the yang qi of the governing vessel and enhance the body’s resistance. Both adults and children can benefit from moxibustion.
33. Moxibustion at the Zusanli point is beneficial for health maintenance, enhancing physical fitness and prolonging life. A popular practice in Japan is to perform moxibustion from the first to the eighth day of the lunar month, with a certain number of cones each day. The contemporary famous physician Peng Jingshan provided another method for moxibustion at the Zusanli point: on the first day of each lunar month, perform one cone, on the second day, two cones, increasing to seven cones on the seventh day, then stopping. On the fifteenth day, start again with seven cones, decreasing by one cone each day until the twenty-first day, when only one cone is performed, then stop. This method is especially suitable for the elderly.
34. Some believe that moxibustion can be performed on the fontanelle of newborns to prevent convulsions. This method is not advisable. Infants have a constitution that is still immature in yin and yang; yang can easily become active, and fire can easily float. Therefore, if there is no obvious yang deficiency, excessive moxibustion should not be used. Moxibustion can easily cause floating fire, leading to irritability, constipation, and convulsions. However, it is acceptable to boil mugwort leaves and use the water for bathing infants, as it can dispel wind and detoxify, benefiting the health of the child.
35. The moxibustion method of placing aconite on the navel can utilize the warming power of aconite and moxa to promote yang qi, while the addition of fine salt can draw it into the kidneys, securing kidney qi. I often use this method to treat various yang deficiency-related diseases, such as edema, late-stage tumors with yang deficiency, impotence, premature ejaculation, insufficient sperm vitality or count, and yang deficiency-related infertility. The moxibustion password reminds you that any chronic disease affecting the kidneys or cases of kidney qi deficiency can benefit from this method. For severe cases, moxibustion can be performed dozens or even hundreds of times. Those with yang deficiency can also perform moxibustion around the summer solstice to improve their constitution.
36. A netizen said: After performing moxibustion at the Zusanli point from the first to the eighth day, my long-standing stomach issues that had troubled me for over twenty years were resolved. For those with a constitution leaning towards deficiency and cold, or middle jiao yang deficiency, or chronic diarrhea, or stomach pain and bloating, or pale complexion and fatigue, or muscle atrophy in the limbs, or those wishing to lose or gain weight, this method can be tried. However, it may leave scars, so those concerned about appearance should choose carefully. After moxibustion, there may be moxibustion sores that need to be treated according to the method.
37. A friend of mine discovered a scar on her mother’s buttocks while performing acupuncture. When asked, her mother said that she was a premature baby, and her grandmother learned a folk method to moxibust the Changqiang (长强) point, resulting in a scar. Her mother has been very healthy throughout her life, even at over seventy years old. The Changqiang point is the starting point of the governing vessel, and as the name suggests, it has the effect of promoting yang. Yang qi rises from the Changqiang point along the spine, becoming stronger and longer. Therefore, for children with congenital deficiencies, moxibustion at this point can be used for health maintenance.
38. For high fevers of 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by restlessness and insomnia, this indicates that yangming is not descending, and fire qi is rising. According to the principle, “If the body feels like burning charcoal, sweating will disperse it.” Moxibustion at the Dazhui and Shenzhu points for several minutes can induce sweating and immediately reduce the heat. Over the years, whenever I encounter patients with high fevers, if acupuncture is ineffective, I switch to moxibustion, which often yields immediate results. It is crucial to avoid excessive use of cold treatments; some physicians mistakenly believe that only cold can eliminate high heat, not realizing that this also diminishes the vital energy. Moreover, using ice to lower the temperature simultaneously reduces life vitality.
39. Some netizens worry: In summer, it is already hot; if I perform moxibustion, what if I get too hot? Generally speaking, individuals with a constitution of yang deficiency should use moxibustion in summer to improve their yang deficiency constitution. If excessive moxibustion leads to symptoms of excessive heat, drinking a few cups of green tea or a few bowls of mung bean soup can quickly alleviate the situation. Since each person’s constitution, condition, and understanding of TCM differ, I do not recommend that everyone use the same health maintenance methods.
40. Many years ago, I treated a Korean friend in her seventies who had a patch of neurodermatitis the size of a one-yuan coin on her right upper limb, commonly known as psoriasis, which had persisted for over ten years, causing white flakes and unbearable itching. She had taken various internal and external medications without significant effect. I used a moxa stick to moxibust the affected area once a day for fifteen minutes. After four or five sessions, her psoriasis remarkably healed, and she has not experienced a recurrence in over ten years.
41. For those prone to allergies, moxibustion can be beneficial. Moxibustion at the Zusanli and Guanyuan points, whether using a moxa stick or small moxa cones, can effectively warm and supplement original qi, improving allergic constitutions. When not experiencing allergies, moxibustion can be used to strengthen the body; when allergies occur, moxibustion can also be applied to accelerate the expulsion of evils. Skin allergies can also be treated with moxibustion at the Ge Shu (膈俞) point; psoriasis can be combined with local plum blossom needle pricking followed by moxibustion; allergic rhinitis can be treated with moxibustion at the Yingxiang point; allergic bronchitis can be treated with moxibustion at the Fengmen (风门) and Feishu (肺俞) points, all yielding good results.
42. Life is a bundle of yang qi; to preserve life, one must nourish this bundle of yang qi. Whether for health maintenance or disease treatment, it is essential to avoid using any cold methods that harm yang qi. The moxibustion password reminds you that after illness, yang qi is already deficient; if cold methods are excessively used, it will lead to further damage to yang qi. Although there may be some benefits, it is not advisable to seek one benefit at the cost of numerous drawbacks. The ancients have long advised: the first method to preserve life is moxibustion. This is because moxibustion can support yang and suppress yin, benefiting the vitality of life.
43. There are many methods to warm and promote yang. One can harness the power of the sun, such as by sunbathing; one can utilize the power of moxa, as moxibustion is the best method to support and warm yang; one can use the power of Chinese herbs, such as Guizhi (桂枝) and formulas like Si Ni San (四逆汤), which have warming and promoting effects; and one can nourish one’s own yang through diet, daily routines, exercise, and behavior. Patients with serious illnesses should not only seek help from doctors to alleviate symptoms but also learn methods to warm and promote yang.
44. From the Grain Rain to the Summer Solstice, the twelve channels belong to the Qian hexagram, during which the yang qi between heaven and earth is at its peak, and mugwort absorbs the yang qi of heaven and earth, making it most potent at this time. To nourish yang, one should use moxibustion promptly. This method is best, especially for those with a constitution of yang deficiency, performing moxibustion until the summer solstice to nourish the body’s yang; if the body’s yang qi is not smoothly circulating, it can easily stagnate under the skin, manifesting as various eczema and itchy rashes. At this time, bathing with water boiled with mugwort leaves can effectively promote the circulation of yang qi, making the body feel refreshed and comfortable.
45. Moxa has a bitter and pungent taste, and its nature is warm; it absorbs the qi of wood and fire from heaven and earth, making it most adept at warming and promoting yang qi. When the body’s yang qi circulates smoothly, it can warm the meridians, dispel dampness, scatter cold, stop bleeding, relieve asthma, stop coughing, stabilize pregnancy, and combat allergies. A moderate amount of mugwort leaves, boiled with ten times the amount of rice vinegar for external washing, can treat various skin itching conditions and stubborn skin diseases, as mugwort can disperse the internal stagnation of yang qi; for treating cold legs, mugwort leaves can be boiled with an equal amount of Sichuan pepper for external washing; moxa can be sewn into knee pads or abdominal wraps for excellent cold-dispelling effects.
46. Individuals with yang deficiency often prefer heat and dislike cold, even warm temperatures. For example, some prefer hot drinks and feel comfortable only with boiling hot beverages, while warm drinks can cause diarrhea or abdominal pain; some feel comfortable only in a 60-degree hot bath, while 40 degrees feels too cold; some prefer direct moxibustion with moxa cones, even to the point of burning the skin without feeling pain. The key reason for this is that their yang qi is too deficient, and their bodies seek external heat to warm and circulate the internal yang qi.
47. Aconite is spicy, warm, and very hot, with the ability to warm the kidneys and strengthen yang, treating conditions of cold and dampness; moxibustion can also support yang and suppress yin. Those with a three yin constitution, meaning those with inherently weak yang qi, are most suitable for supporting yang in summer. The moxibustion method of placing aconite on the navel is excellent. The method involves using an appropriate amount of fresh aconite, grinding it into a fine powder, mixing it with a small amount of flour to form a thin cake the size of a one-yuan coin, with several holes poked in the center, and then drying it for later use. First, fill the navel with fine salt, cover it with the aconite cake, and then apply a moxa cone the size of a mung bean for moxibustion.
48. Some people ask whether the smoke produced by moxibustion is harmful to health. All smoke contains dust and impurities, and inhaling it can affect the normal functions of the lungs in dispersing and descending qi, so it is said that moxa smoke is also not beneficial to health, and it is best to minimize inhalation. In fact, if moxibustion is performed for health maintenance, occasional inhalation is not a problem; moxa smoke is at least safer than car exhaust. It is recommended to keep windows open for ventilation, and if the smoke is too heavy, wearing a mask can help. Additionally, placing bamboo charcoal indoors can help absorb smoke.
49. For infertility, I often attribute it to deficiency, cold, stasis, or stagnation of the uterus. In Austria, I have treated infertility using both acupuncture and moxibustion, with satisfactory results. Acupuncture focuses on the Zhongji, Guanyuan, Guilai, and other local points of the uterus, supplemented by Sanyinjiao, Taichong (太冲), Zusanli, Linggu (灵骨), and Daba (大白) points, selected according to the symptoms. Moxibustion can be performed at the lower abdomen and at the Yongquan or Sanyinjiao points. Recently, I received news that three patients from Austria have successfully given birth, which is very gratifying.
50. To strengthen the spleen, during the time from 9 AM to 11 AM, when the spleen is at its peak, one can eat a slice of ginger soaked in vinegar or drink ginger and brown sugar water, both of which have the effect of warming the spleen and uplifting yang; second, appropriate exercise should be done to promote sweating; third, moxibustion at the Zusanli and Zhongwan points is generally performed with gentle moxibustion using moxa sticks, and the Zusanli point can also be treated with small moxa cones for scar moxibustion, greatly supplementing spleen yang; fourth, one should avoid cold drinks and foods, eat less cold fruits, and consume more foods that grow underground to nourish the spleen and strengthen the earth.
51. An elderly female patient from Italy experienced abdominal bloating and indigestion, unable to eat seed foods, which caused severe bloating. This indicates deficiency of middle qi and loss of spleen function, with grains becoming a pathogenic factor. The moxibustion password reminds you to strengthen the middle jiao and support its qi transformation. Acupuncture at the Sanjiao (三脘), Tianshu, and Qihai points, combined with moxibustion, can support the middle yang, promote spleen function, and alleviate bloating. After five treatments, her symptoms gradually improved. Later, I considered adding Taibai (太白) to consolidate the treatment.
52. The kidneys are where essence resides; the heart is where essence moves. In youth, when one indulges in pleasures, the heart often becomes overly active, causing the sovereign fire to rise and the ministerial fire to burn, leading to the kidneys being unable to store water, resulting in seminal emission. If the heart fire continues to be overly active for a long time, the essence chamber gradually empties, leading to a weakened foundation of life. The treatment method requires first calming the heart. The ancients said, “If one wishes to cherish life, one must first cherish essence. If one wishes to cherish essence, one must first purify the heart.” Additionally, moxibustion should be performed at the Shenshu (肾俞) point to secure the gateways.
53. Moxibustion utilizes the heat of moxa to warm and supplement the body’s yang qi; therefore, within a few hours after moxibustion, one should avoid exposure to cold to prevent the dissipation of heat and affect the results. After moxibustion, it is important not to take a bath immediately, avoid drinking green tea and cold water, and refrain from exercising. If symptoms of a cold, such as clear nasal discharge, coughing, or fever occur after moxibustion, this is a response indicating that the body’s yang qi is being invigorated and the hidden evils are being expelled; one should rest indoors and avoid further exposure to wind and cold. If fatigue occurs after moxibustion, it is also a sign of yang qi circulation, and rest is needed.
54. When the yang qi of the body circulates smoothly, there is health without disease; if there is a blockage in any area of yang qi, that area will become ill. Symptoms can vary, whether they are sores, swellings, or toxins, or pain and numbness, or itchy rashes and spots, or lumps and phlegm masses, or bruises and stagnation, all can be treated with moxibustion. Moxibustion has the effect of warming yang; when yang flows smoothly, all symptoms will resolve. For example, for hot toxic sores, moxibustion with garlic can be used; for subcutaneous lumps and scrofula, direct moxibustion with moxa cones can be applied; for stubborn numbness, warm needle acupuncture can be used; and so on, all of which should be applied by skilled practitioners according to the symptoms.
55. Some individuals may feel lumps of varying sizes in the flesh of their necks, interconnected, which TCM refers to as scrofula. Moxibustion can treat scrofula. The “Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion” states, “For scrofula, moxibustion can eliminate the root. If a child develops scrofula behind the ear, and medication is ineffective, moxibustion can cure it.” The method involves using a whole garlic clove, cutting off both ends, leaving the middle section, applying it to the affected area, and placing a large moxa cone on top, ensuring it does not burn the skin. Moxibustion should be performed seven times, replacing the garlic slice each time, until the scrofula disappears.
56. Skin sores and ulcers are often due to underlying fire; their treatment should focus on clearing and draining the fire, and it is advisable to combine herbal decoctions with moxibustion. Moxibustion can draw out toxins, disperse fire, and also revive yang, allowing the underlying fire to dissipate with the moxa fire, which is highly effective. Furthermore, moxibustion is warming and poses no risk of damaging the middle jiao’s yang qi. Although skin sores and ulcers may present with heat, itching, redness, and swelling, excessive use of cold treatments should be avoided, as this can lead to a depletion of the body’s resources, making the condition difficult to resolve and even leading to complications. If combined with acupuncture to regulate qi and expel evils, the effects can be even better.
57. The second external treatment method for psoriasis is as follows: The affected area can be treated with moxibustion; first, apply garlic juice, then place a moxa cone (about the size of a match head) on the area with garlic juice, ensuring a distance of 1.5 centimeters between each cone. After igniting the moxa cone, allow it to burn out, then blow away the ash and cover it with a disinfecting dressing. Moxibustion should be performed every ten days until the skin returns to normal. Generally, significant effects can be seen after one to three treatments. After moxibustion, avoid using alcohol, soap, or other irritants on the affected area, and avoid stimulating foods.
58. Thunder fire moxibustion is a combination therapy that uses thunder fire moxibustion with moxa sticks separated by cotton paper, combined with massage techniques on the painful area, allowing the gentle penetration of moxa heat and the medicinal properties to work together, promoting the circulation of qi and blood, achieving the effects of warming and relieving pain.
59. If one does not get vaccinated, how can one avoid infectious diseases? My view is to regularly support the righteous qi, and to use appropriate formulas based on one’s constitution to improve the three yin constitution, or to combine with acupuncture. The saying “When the righteous qi is stored within, evils cannot invade” reflects this principle. When encountering infectious diseases, urgent moxibustion at the Zusanli point is recommended, preferably using direct moxibustion with moxa cones to induce blistering. This can effectively enhance the body’s resistance, making it less susceptible to illness.
60. Moxibustion is most needed for serious diseases. In the past, Cao Cao suffered from head wind; Hua Tuo treated him with acupuncture, but the condition recurred. The herbal king Sun Simiao believed that if Hua Tuo had performed moxibustion after acupuncture, the head wind would not have reappeared. The reason is that without moxibustion, the evil qi remains hidden, and the root of the disease is not eliminated. Sun Simiao stated, “Practitioners should not rely solely on acupuncture and herbal medicines, hoping for a complete cure. If moxibustion is not performed, how can the root cause be addressed? Therefore, despite the abundance of medicines, the key to all treatments lies in fire and moxa.” Moxibustion is extremely important and should be given due attention.