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Moxibustion, Cupping & Gua Sha |
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 Moxibustion
treats and prevents conditions by applying heat to acupuncture points or
areas of the body. It uses a smouldering herb –
artemesia vulgaris (commonly known as mugwort) – to encourage the
body’s energy to flow smoothly. Often used in conjunction with
acupuncture, it can be used as a treatment on its own. It is
becoming widely known for turning foetuses in breech position.
In cupping therapy, cups are applied to the skin surface to help to move the
qi. The cups may be made materials such as glass, plastic, bamboo, or rubber
and the objective is to obtain suction by creating a vacuum.
 Like
cupping, gua sha seeks to influence the flow of qi through contact with the
body’s surface. It is a form of massage, where the skin is stroked using a
round-edged instrument. This removes congestion, and promotes normal
circulation and metabolic processes.
 Moxibustion, cupping and gua sha can be used in conjunction with acupuncture, or on their own.
They are particularly indicated for the treatment of pain, and in the
prevention and treatment of acute infectious illness, upper respiratory
problems, digestive disorders, and many other acute or chronic disorders.
Picture of Artemisia Vulgaris ©
Carl Farmer |
