Moxa- Why use it?

Moxa ~ Ai Ye ~ Mugwort ~ Artemisia

Moxa is a plant that is used in a wide variety of ways-- from being used in desserts, to being used medicinally (internal & external).

To create moxa, mugwort leaves are dried then grind the plant until it turns to the texture of a flower or cotton. From this point, one could make moxa sticks (cigars), loose moxa, stick-on moxa, or moxa cookies (not to be eaten). The types of moxibustion are broken into two groups. Direct moxibustion where the moxa is placed directly on the skin. Indirect moxibustion where the moxa is held near but not directly onto the skin.  There are some providers who have their whole practice solely utilizing moxa to treat their patients. 

In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) moxa is taught to ‘open the channels and collaterals’ by adding warmth. Additional functions of moxa within TCM: Warming the channels, Warming Yang, Expel Cold, Tonify Qi, Nourishing Blood, Activating Blood. 

Moxibustion has been applied in treating a range of diseases. From diarrhea, urinary incontinence, dysmenorrhea, herpes zoster, osteoarthritis of the knee, soft tissue injury, as well as weakness, fatigue and aging related issues.  

Schedule an appointment to see if moxa will be beneficial for you!