Moxibustion is a part of traditional Chinese medicine, which uses warm stimulation on specific acupoints based on the theory of meridians and organs. By conducting heat through the meridians, it aims to achieve therapeutic effects. Moxibustion has a wide range of clinical applications. Can moxibustion be used for liver and gallbladder damp-heat?
Can Moxibustion be Used for Liver and Gallbladder Damp-Heat?
Yes, it can.
Liver and gallbladder damp-heat is caused by excessive internal dampness and damage to the liver and gallbladder, resulting in a series of pathological conditions. Moxibustion stimulates specific acupoints, which transmit specific therapeutic effects through the meridians to the affected area, achieving the goal of treating the disease.
Where to Apply Moxibustion for Liver and Gallbladder Damp-Heat?
Fenglong (ST40)
Fenglong is an acupoint on the Stomach meridian of the Foot-Yangming, located on the front outer side of the lower leg. It is horizontally aligned with the midpoint between the lateral knee and the outer ankle, about 1.5 inches away from the outer edge of the lower leg. Fenglong has a good effect in eliminating dampness.
Xiexi (ST41)
Xiexi is an acupoint on the Stomach meridian of the Foot-Yangming, located in the central depression of the transverse lines on the dorsum of the foot, where shoelaces are tied. Xiexi can eliminate dampness.
Taichong (LR3)
Taichong is an acupoint on the Liver meridian of the Foot-Jueyin, located on the lateral side of the dorsum of the foot, in the depression between the first and second metatarsal bones. Taichong can eliminate dampness and clear heat.
Ququan (LR8)
Ququan is an acupoint on the Liver meridian of the Foot-Jueyin, located on the inner side of the knee, at the end of the transverse crease on the medial side of the flexed knee, behind the posterior edge of the tibia, in the depression between the semitendinosus and semimembranosus tendons. Ququan can clear and benefit damp-heat.
Ganshu (BL18)
Ganshu is an acupoint on the Urinary Bladder meridian of the Foot-Taiyang, located on the back, below the 9th thoracic vertebra spinous process, 1.5 inches to the side. Ganshu can protect and nourish the liver.
How to Apply Moxibustion for Liver and Gallbladder Damp-Heat?
Choose the above acupoints for moxibustion. Select 3-4 acupoints each time and use either separated ginger moxibustion or suspended moxibustion with moxa sticks. The duration of each moxibustion session should be determined based on the patient's tolerance, generally 5-10 minutes for each acupoint. Repeat the treatment every other day, with 15-20 sessions as one course of treatment.
What to Pay Attention to in Moxibustion for Liver and Gallbladder Damp-Heat?
1. It is recommended for liver and gallbladder damp-heat patients to consult a doctor before using moxibustion and to undergo regular treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Moxibustion is only an adjunctive therapy, and proper treatment for liver and gallbladder damp-heat should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.
2. Gradually increase the intensity of moxibustion. For first-time users, it is important to start with a small amount and low dosage, using small moxa cones or short moxibustion time. Increase the dosage gradually afterward. Avoid starting with a high dosage.
3. Pay attention to the temperature during moxibustion. For individuals with dull skin sensation or children, the operator can place their index and middle fingers on both sides of the moxibustion site to perceive the temperature, ensuring that the skin is not burned while achieving the desired effect.
