July 2012
In this three-part series, Tom Williams, licensed acupuncturist at Turning Point Center in Eugene, utilizes needles, moxibustion, and cupping to address headaches.
In this direct method of moxa treatment, shiunko ointment at the base of an acupuncture needle provides a barrier between the skin and a sesame-seed sized piece of moxa that is lit and allowed to smolder briefly in order to increase blood circulation to the point.
In indirect applications, moxa is pressed into sticks, lit like a stick of incense, and held above an acupuncture point or is inserted into a tiger warmer device that provides a barrier.
When performed correctly, direct moxibustion does not produce scarring or cause burns. Moxibustion can be used to treat breech presentation in pregnancy, sinusitis, allergies, immune deficiency, digestive problems, and hormonal imbalances, among other conditions.
