Ilchi Lee Day Celebrations

Through centuries of use in traditional Eastern medicine, we know that moxibustion can be used to treat hundreds of problems. Practitioners of traditional Oriental medicine recommend it for any condition that involves the stagnation of Ki-energy or the excess of cold energy, for problems ranging from the common cold to digestive problems and joint pain. Moxibustion reinvigorates blood and energy circulation and can speed the body’s natural healing process, boost metabolism, and enhance the immune system. It should only be avoided when fire energy is already overly abundant, as in the case of high fever, high blood pressure, and inflammation. Pregnant women should avoid moxibustion, since the corresponding surge of energy can kick-start the birthing process. All moxibustion can be categorized as either “direct” or “indirect.” In both cases, an herb, usually dried mugwort, is burned on or near an acupressure point relating to the particular complaint. In the indirect method, the flame doesn’t come into direct contact with the skin. The mugwort may be rolled into a densely packed cylinder, or a “moxa stick.” The stick is then lit and held briefly a few millimeters above the acupressure point. Moxibustion can also be used in conjunction with acupuncture needles, in which case a tuft of mugwort is connected to the needle and burned. A third indirect method is to burn the mugwort with a barrier between the mugwort and the skin. The barrier can be any non-reactive material, even something organic, such as a thin slice of ginger, which may add to the medicinal benefit.