RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN THE EFFECTS AND THE METHODS OF MOXIBUSTION 

Zhou Meisheng

(Anhui College of TCM, Hefei)

I. Moxibustion should be advocated. Acupuncture and moxibustion are two physical therapies of different modes of action, both dependent upon the action of the meridian system in man. Though they were originally of equal importance, moxibustion is not so popular nowadays as acupuncture for direct moxibustion brings about greater pain. Notwithstanding, it is in many aspects superior to acupuncture therapeutically.

2. Different methods of moxibustion result in different effects. Ever since the maturation moxibustion of the ancient time, various methods of moxibustion have been deviced, each has its own merits and demerits. They act as mutual complement but not exclusively: different methods are applicable to different cases. Different methods of moxibustion as well as the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion cannot be equalized.

3. The main conditions for moxi-therapy. The effect of any moxi-method depends upon three main conditions, i.e. the quality of the moxi-material, the mode of action of the moxi-method and the amount of the moxi-action. Different moxi-materials are applicable to different modes of action, and different modes of action, in turn, result in different amount of action. They must be controlled and dealt with properly.

4. The propagation of the sensation of the moxi-effects. The propagation of the sensation is the essence of acu- and moxi-therapies. In acupuncture, the propagation is aroused through manipulation while in moxibustion, it often occurs spontaneously, presenting the three basic time phases of the propagation rule, when the moxi-therapy reaches a certain amount of action. About 85% of the cases reveal this phenomenon.

5. Introducing a simple moxi-device. The device is recommendable for its stabilized position and concentrated action, its homogeneous heating under easy regulating; its allowance of free posture of the patient with satisfying propagation, its easy handling with high efficiency and its saving of the doctor's energies. So it holds a good promise of popularization.