MOXIBUSTION Meaning and
Definition
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Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning a small bundle of dried herbs, mainly made from the leaves of the Artemisia plant, near specific acupuncture points on the body. It is a therapeutic practice often used in conjunction with acupuncture to promote healing and alleviate various health conditions.
The term "moxibustion" originates from the Latin word "moxa" meaning "to burn." The burning moxa stick, also known as moxa wool or cone, usually consists of the herb Artemisia vulgaris, commonly known as mugwort. The practitioner ignites the moxa stick and holds it a few inches away from the skin or directly on top of a needle inserted into an acupuncture point. The radiant heat generated by the burning moxa stimulates these acupuncture points, allowing the healing properties of the herb to penetrate the body and help restore balance.
Moxibustion is believed to boost the flow of Qi (energy) and blood in the body, strengthen the immune system, and relieve pain and inflammation. It is often used to address conditions such as colds and flu, menstrual discomfort, digestive disorders, arthritis, and various chronic ailments.
There are different techniques and varieties of moxibustion, including direct and indirect moxibustion. Direct moxibustion involves placing the moxa directly on the skin, while indirect moxibustion involves separating the skin from the moxa by using a layer of protective material like ginger or salt. Moxibustion is generally considered safe when performed by trained practitioners.
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The production of counterirritation by means of a moxa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MOXIBUSTION
- noxibustion
- koxibustion
- joxibustion
- mixibustion
- mkxibustion
- mlxibustion
- mpxibustion
- m0xibustion
- m9xibustion
- mozibustion
- mocibustion
- modibustion
- mosibustion
- moxubustion
- moxjbustion
- moxkbustion
- moxobustion
- mox9bustion
- mox8bustion
- moxivustion
Etymology of MOXIBUSTION
The word "moxibustion" is derived from the combination of two words: "moxa" and "combustion".
1. Moxa: The term "moxa" originated from the Japanese word "mogusa" (もぐさ), which in turn was influenced by the Chinese word "mògūshā" (默故痧). In Chinese, "mògūshā" referred to the traditional practice of burning dried herbs on specific acupuncture points to stimulate healing or provide pain relief.
2. Combustion: The word "combustion" comes from the Latin word "combustio" meaning "burning". It denotes the process of igniting or setting something alight.
Therefore, "moxibustion" essentially describes the therapeutic technique of burning dried herbs (moxa) on specific points of the body.
