Moxibustion: heat treatment from the TCM

Moxibustion: heat treatment from the TCM

In the multifaceted world of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) there is a treatment method that has been appreciated for centuries because of its complex application and profound effect: moxibusization. This heat treatment, which is based on the combustion of mugwort herb, combines traditional wisdom with the subtle art of energy line in the body. Their application spectrum ranges from pain relief to improving blood circulation to strengthening the immune system. But how well -founded is the understanding of their mode of operation and effectiveness from a scientific point of view? This article illuminates the historical development of moxibustion within the TCM, undertakes its application of a critical scientific assessment and gives practical recommendations for proper implementation. Immerse yourself in the world of moxibustion and explore how traditional knowledge and modern research flow together in this old healing art.

Fundamentals and historical development of moxibustion in traditional Chinese medicine

MOXIBUSTION is a traditional form of therapy that is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is based on the burning of dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) over certain parts of the body in order to stimulate the body through the resulting heat and to promote the flow of Qi and blood. It was originally developed in China and other East Asian countries and has been practiced for over 2000 years.

The historical development of moxibusomy can be traced in old Chinese documents. Early records can be found in the "Huangdi Neijing" (the inner book of the yellow emperor), a basic text of the TCM, which between the 2nd and 1st century BC. Was written. This work describes various forms of moxibusization and their use in a variety of symptoms. Various techniques and forms of application have developed over the centuries, including direct and indirect moxibustion.

In direct moxibusion, a small piece of MOA is placed directly on the skin and lit until it burns completely. This method can lead to skin burns, which is why it is used less frequently in modern practice. The indirect moxibustion, in which the Moa wool does not touch the skin directly, is now the preferred method due to the lower risk of burns. Variations of this method include the use of moxa cigars that are kept via acupuncture points, and the laying of moxa on intermediate media (e.g. ginger panel or salt) that are placed between the skin and the glowing moxa.

The areas of application of moxibustion in the TCM are diverse. Traditionally, it is used in chronic pain, digestive disorders, cold symptoms and the general strengthening of the energy flow. She finds a special application in obstetrics to rotation of fetuses in a bump.

In modern research, the effectiveness of moxibusion is examined in various clinical pictures. Scientific studies suggest that moxibustion can be effective in the treatment of pain conditions, arthritis, menstrual complaints, and in supporting the rotation of fetuses in the bone position. The scientific knowledge of moxibustion is growing steadily, but the need for further high quality studies is emphasized in order to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this method.

Scientific evaluation of the effectiveness of moxibustion in various diseases

In the scientific community, the effectiveness of moxibustion in the treatment and relief of different diseases is intensively researched. Studies show mixed results that some indicate significant therapeutic effects, while others are skeptical of the method.

Clinical studies and meta-analyzes , moxibustion is particularly effective for the following conditions:

• pain relief, including arthritis and menstrual complaints
• improvement of digestive performance
• relief of pregnancy complaints, including the correction of bumps for birth preparation

The data situation regarding the effect of moxibustion in the treatment of cancer and other severe chronic diseases remains inconsistent and requires further research.

An example of a meta-analysis that examines the effectiveness of moxibusion is a study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine . This work evaluates the use of moxibusion in patients with knee osteoarthritis and comes to the conclusion that moxibustion can cause statistically significant improvements compared to standard treatments.

The academic discussion also focuses on the methodology of the moxibusion application. A distinction is made between direct and indirect moxibustion, whereby the direct application - in which the moxaca is burned directly on the skin - is considered more effective but more painful and risky. The indirect method in which there is a protective layer between skin and moxa reduces risks and pain, but, according to some studies, could have a reduced therapeutic effect.

In order to further promote the discussion about effectiveness, uniform clinical protocols and other randomized controlled studies (RCTS) are required. Both short and long-term effects should be recorded and the safety of the moxibustion should be confirmed. Furthermore, it is essential to understand the specific mechanisms through which moxibustion achieves their therapeutic effects in order to further optimize their application in modern medicine.

recommendations for the practical application of moxibusion: security aspects and techniques

When using the practical application of moxibustion, it is essential to consider both the correct techniques and the safety precautions in order to minimize potential risks and optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.

safety aspects include the protection of the patient from direct heat to avoid burns. It is advisable to use a barrier such as salt, garlic or ginger panel between the Moxa cigar and skin, especially when using the direct moxibuscation method. Smoke and smell that arise during treatment can be minimized by adequate ventilation or the use of low -smoke moxa. Users should also ensure that the moxa is completely deleted after use to prevent fire dangers.

The correct technology depends on the specific treatment. A basic distinction is made between direct and indirect moxibus. With direct moxibustion , a moxa cone is applied directly to the skin and lit. This method is less used today due to the increased risk of combustion. The indirect moxibustion , in which the moxa does not come into contact with the skin directly, is more used. Here, the moxa can be placed on acupuncture needles or kept in the form of a Moxa cigar that hovers close to the skin.

• distance holder: Use of spacers for a secure distance of the embers to the skin.
• treatment duration: Control of exposure time to prevent overheating and burns.
• smoke management: use of low -smoke moxa in closed rooms.

In order to maximize the effectiveness of moxibustion and at the same time minimize the security risk, learning correct application methods by trained specialist staff is essential. Further information on correct application can be obtained in specialized training or specialist books. In any case, a careful medical history and diagnosis should precede the use of moxibustion in order to individually adapt the therapy to the patient and to exclude possible contraindications.

moxibustion, a fascinating heat treatment from the repertoire of traditional Chinese medicine, is the focus of both historical and scientific terms. The historical foundations illustrate the deeply rooted meaning of this method, which has been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years. The scientific evaluation of their effectiveness, the challenges of research and the promising results in the treatment of various diseases show that moxibustion is more than just a traditional healing art. It is a treatment method, the potential of which can be further developed in modern medicine. However, the need for a knowledgeable application and observation of security aspects underlines the importance of well -founded knowledge and practical experience in the application of this technology. In the synthesis of tradition and scientific management, Moxibustion offers an example of how old healing methods can be integrated into modern therapeutic practice in order to promote the well -being and health of man.

sources and further literature

references

• Bensky, D., Clavey, S., Stöger, E., & Gamble, A. (2004). chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica . Eastland Press.
• Cheng, X. (2010). Chinese acupuncture and moxibusion . Publisher for traditional Chinese medicine Dr. Erich Wühr.
• Maciocia, G. (2015). The basics of Chinese medicine . Urban & Fischer Verlag/Elsevier GmbH.

Scientific studies

• Coyle, M.E., Smith, C. A., & PEAT, B. (2012). Cephalic version by Moxibustion for Breech Presentation . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD003928. Doi: 10.1002/14651858.cd003928.pub3.
• Lee, M. S., Choi, T.-Y., Park, J.-E., Lee, S. S., & Ernst, E. (2010). Moxibustion for cancer care: a systematic review and meta-analysis . BMC Cancer, 10, 130. Doi: 10.1186/1471-2407-130.
• Lee, M. S., Kang, J. W., & Ernst, E. (2010). does Moxibustion work? An overview of systematic reviews . BMC Research Notes, 3, 284. DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-3-284.

further literature

• deadman, P., & al-Khafaji, M. (1998). a manual of acupuncture . Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
• Flaws, B. (1997). The Book of Jook: Chinese Medicinal Porridges - A Healthy Alternative to the typical Western Breakfast . Blue Poppy Press.
• Matuk, C. (2011). Textbook of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The moxibustion . Müller & Steinicke.