The efficacy and contraindications of Li Dong moxibustion

Lidong moxibustion has the effects of warming meridians, dispelling cold, strengthening yang, and enhancing immunity. However, it should be noted that it is contraindicated for people with yin deficiency, excessive fire, skin damage, pregnant women, and other conditions. Moxibustion, as a traditional Chinese medicine therapy, has a unique role in winter health preservation by stimulating acupoints to adjust the balance of yin and yang in the human body.

1. Warm Meridians and dispel Cold

Moxibustion penetrates the meridians through the warm and humid effects generated by combustion, effectively dispelling the cold and dampness in the body. Especially suitable for symptoms such as cold hands and feet, joint pain, etc. in winter. Common acupoints include Guanyuan acupoint, Zusanli acupoint, etc. Both moxa stick moxibustion and ginger separated moxibustion can have a warming and promoting effect. People with cold constitution can improve blood circulation by moxibustion 2-3 times a week after the start of winter.

2. Fu Yang Gu Ben

Ai Ye has a warm and pungent nature, and has the effect of nourishing Yuan Yang. Moxibusting the Mingmen and Shenshu acupoints during the beginning of winter can help the body store yang energy and prevent respiratory diseases that are prone to occur in winter. Clinical studies have shown that regular moxibustion can enhance the body's cold tolerance, but it is necessary to avoid moxibustion when the body is over full or on an empty stomach.

III. Enhancing Immunity

The volatile oil components in Artemisia argyi can stimulate the activity of human immune cells. Moxibustion at acupoints such as Dazhui and Feishu can regulate the number of T lymphocytes and have a preventive effect on recurrent colds, chronic bronchitis, etc. It is recommended to use the rotary moxibustion method, apply moxibustion to each acupoint for 5-10 minutes, and the skin should be slightly red.

4. Taboo Population

Individuals with Yin deficiency constitution may exhibit symptoms such as dry mouth and tongue, hot flashes, and night sweats. Moxibustion may exacerbate the deficiency fire. Moxibustion is prohibited when the skin has ulcers, eczema and other injuries, and the temperature of diabetes patients with terminal hypoesthesia needs to be strictly controlled. Pregnant women are strictly prohibited from using acupoints in the lumbar and abdominal regions, as they may cause uterine contractions.

V. Precautions

Avoid contact with cold water within 4 hours after moxibustion to prevent the invasion of cold air. Dizziness, nausea, and other dizziness during moxibustion should be immediately stopped. It is recommended to select acupoints based on syndrome differentiation under the guidance of professional physicians. For home moxibustion, it is recommended to use safe equipment such as moxibustion boxes, maintain indoor ventilation but avoid direct blowing.

After moxibustion at the beginning of winter, it is advisable to eat millet Congee and yam to nourish the spleen and stomach at the same time, and avoid eating raw and cold fruits. Can be combined with soothing exercises such as Ba Duan Jin and Tai Chi to promote the circulation of Yang energy. After using moxibustion equipment, the residual heat should be completely extinguished and stored separately in a cool place. If there are blisters on the moxibustion site, small blisters can be naturally absorbed, while large blisters need to be disinfected and punctured to drain the fluid. The key to winter moxibustion health preservation lies in persistence, and it is recommended to perform it continuously for at least three solar terms in order to show significant effects.