Where can moxibustion be used for weight loss

Moxibustion can help promote metabolism and fat consumption by stimulating specific acupoints. The acupoints commonly used for weight loss include Zhongwan, Guanyuan, Zusanli, Fenglong, Sanyinjiao, etc. Moxibustion for weight loss should be combined with dietary control and exercise, and it is recommended to undergo it under the guidance of a professional traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

1. Zhongwan acupoint

Zhongwan acupoint is located 4 inches above the navel on the midline of the abdomen and belongs to the Ren meridian acupoint. Moxibustion at this acupoint can regulate gastrointestinal function, improve indigestion and bloating, and reduce abdominal fat accumulation. It is advisable to use a warm sensation during operation to avoid burning the skin. Patients with weak spleen and stomach should carefully control the duration of moxibustion.

2. Guanyuan acupoint

Guanyuan acupoint is located 3 inches below the navel and is an important acupoint for nourishing qi. Moxibustion at Guan Yuan acupoint can enhance basal metabolic rate and improve obesity caused by deficiency cold constitution. Individuals with Yin deficiency and Fire excess constitution should reduce the amount and frequency of moxibustion, with each moxibustion treatment lasting no more than 15 minutes.

3. Zusanli acupoint

Zusanli acupoint is located 3 inches below the calf nose on the outer side of the calf and belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian. Moxibustion of this acupoint can promote gastrointestinal peristalsis, accelerate water metabolism, and is suitable for lower limb edema type obesity. Pregnant women and those with excessive menstrual flow are prohibited from using moxibustion at this acupoint.

4. Fenglong acupoint

Fenglong acupoint is located 8 inches above the tip of the anterior lateral malleolus of the calf and is an important acupoint for resolving phlegm and dampness. Moxibustion of this acupoint helps to break down the adipose tissue of obese individuals with phlegm dampness type, and can last for 10-15 minutes each time. People with skin damage or infection should avoid this area.

5. Sanyinjiao Point

Sanyinjiao Point is located 3 inches above the tip of the medial malleolus on the posterior edge of the tibia, and is the intersection of the liver, spleen, and kidney meridians. Moxibustion at this acupoint can regulate endocrine function and improve obesity caused by hormonal imbalance. Patients with diabetes need to strictly control the moxibustion temperature to prevent low-temperature burns.

Moxibustion for weight loss needs to be persisted for 2-3 months to show results. It is recommended to perform 3-4 times a week, selecting 3-4 acupoints to apply moxibustion alternately each time. Warm water should be replenished before and after moxibustion to avoid operating on an empty stomach or when feeling too full. Combining a low-fat and high fiber diet with at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week yields better results. If you experience discomfort such as skin allergies or dizziness, stop immediately and consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Pregnant women, patients with high fever, and those with sensitive skin should not undergo moxibustion.