Moxibustion

This therapy involves the burning of dried mugwort over an acupoint or an area of the body such as the abdomen or back. The herb may be applied directly to the skin but is more usually applied indirectly e.g. on a piece of ginger or in a ‘moxa box’. Moxa sticks can also be used or moxa can be burned on the end of a needle. Moxibustion is used in the treatment of ‘Cold’ conditions and also to help turn a breech baby.

Cupping

This involves the application of suction cups over acupoints. Sliding cupping can be used over a wider area and is very helpful in relieving muscular pain. This can indicate a problem of stagnation in the area and can be used to move this stagnation thus helping the Qi and Blood to flow more smoothly. It can also be used in the early stages of a cold to aid recovery.