Natural Paths
February 23, 2009
HERB OF THE WEEK
MOXA 
Greetings!
Moxa is ARTEMESIA, MUGWORT and is used in Moxabustion (also called Moxacautery). This aromatic herb is used loose to form little, tightly packed "cones" that are placed on the human's body and lit with a flame, then allowed to smolder and are removed before the cone burns down to a place of discomfort. The herb is also added to acupuncture needles and lit to stimulate the chi and unblock meridians even more effectively than the puncture alone.
 
Sometimes the herb is placed in a brass container with a handle, is lit and moved over the body while the herb smolders. MOXABUSTION STICKS or "ROLLS" are like big, thick sticks of incense that you light, keep smoldering and apply ABOVE the bodies (about 2 inches) of people, horses and some large, SHORT haired dogs.
 
The moxa stick is kept moving, in circles, big strokes or by coming in toward a point and back away, repeat. Moxa is used to apply deep warmth and healing at the sites of old, chronic injuries, on acupoints for specific maladies and to calm and release muscle trauma or spasm. It is profoundly effective where other methods have been lacking.
 
Do not use Moxa on fresh, acute injuries or conditions; on pregnant clients; over burns or infections; on the face; over genitals or before the subject needs to be alert!
 
Moxa sticks/rolls are the best choice for beginners - keep a container of water handy, just in case. Keep the ash knocked off of the burning end of the stick. To put it out, wrap the end with foil tightly or use a moxa roll "cap". Store used rolls in a safe, dry place - be CERTAIN they are "out" and not continuing to burn!
 
We do not claim that Moxa will cure you or your animals. We do not guarantee your safety using Moxabustion. It can be dangerous, obviously, so great caution must be observed. We advise you to find a professional to teach its use.
 
rider positions
 
Keep this herb in mind when discussing treatment with your health care practitioner.
We hope you find it a healing addition to your modalities.
Sincerely,                                                        www.naturalpaths.org
Katharine Chrisley
Natural Paths
Natural Paths
P O Box 1882
Mesilla Park, New Mexico 88047