Using moxibustion on the navel has the excellent effects of warming the meridians and dispelling cold, as well as warming the uterus. However, many people experience redness and itching around the navel after moxibustion. What could be the reason for this? And what should be done?
Reasons for redness and itching around the navel after moxibustion
1. It could be a reaction to expelling toxins
The redness and itching around the navel after moxibustion could be a strong indication of a reaction to expelling toxins, which is caused by wind, cold, and dampness in the body.
If there is a heavy presence of cold and dampness in the body, small rashes may appear and itch during the moxibustion process. This is a manifestation of the expulsion of dampness from the body. Especially for patients with severe gynecological problems, these symptoms may appear around the navel and in the groin area during moxibustion.
In this case, moxibustion can continue to be applied for observation. If the rashes disappear on their own, then it can be stopped. If the rashes do not disappear or worsen, additional moxibustion on the Quchi and Hegu points can be considered.
2. It could be an allergic reaction
If there is severe redness and itching around the navel after moxibustion, which does not subside for several days, it is worth considering whether it is an allergic reaction. This is a relatively rare situation, and in most cases, it is still considered a detoxification reaction.
Patients with allergic constitution are more prone to allergic reactions during moxibustion. Red small rashes or wheals may appear, accompanied by symptoms such as general fever, intolerable itching, etc.
Solutions for redness and itching around the navel after moxibustion
1. Stop moxibustion
If redness and itching occur around the navel after moxibustion, it is recommended to observe the symptoms. If the symptoms are similar to an allergic reaction, it is best to stop the moxibustion.
2. Avoid scratching
After moxibustion, many people's first reaction is to scratch the itchy area. This should be avoided because scratching will only further irritate the skin and may cause infection or pigment deposition if red rashes or blisters are present around the navel.
3. Observe more
In general, itching around the navel after moxibustion will naturally subside within a few days after stopping moxibustion. During this period, it is recommended to drink more water to promote metabolism. However, if the itching does not subside, it is advisable to seek medical treatment.
4. Medication treatment
If redness and itching occur after moxibustion due to an allergic reaction, under the guidance of a doctor, appropriate use of antihistamines, vitamin C, and other medications can be considered. If there is also fever, severe itching, dry mouth, restlessness, etc., under the guidance of a doctor, appropriate use of corticosteroids can be considered.
Detoxification reactions after moxibustion on the navel
1. Thirst
After moxibustion, there may be a feeling of internal heat. The main manifestations are dry mouth, red and swollen gums, dizziness, etc. Moxibustion in autumn and winter is more likely to cause internal heat. Moxibustion is good at promoting yang energy. After moxibustion, the balance between yin and yang in the body is temporarily disrupted, and yang energy rises, resulting in symptoms of internal heat. This is generally a normal phenomenon.
2. Appearance of moxibustion blisters
Moxibustion blisters are caused by the expulsion of cold pathogen during moxibustion. They often appear unnoticed after moxibustion. The appearance of blisters indicates the effectiveness of moxibustion. The blisters can be punctured with a needle, and moxibustion can be continued by holding the moxa stick directly. Moxibustion can sterilize and promote healing, so bandaging is generally not necessary. During this period, there may be continuous discharge of fluid, and the healing time varies from person to person, generally between one week and two weeks. The blister should not be exposed to water during this period.
3. Skin itching
Itching during or after moxibustion is an initial indication of cold pathogen on the body surface. If itching occurs at the beginning of moxibustion, it means that cold pathogen is on the surface. If itching occurs after a period of moxibustion, it indicates that the cold pathogen is deeper. In both cases, it is a manifestation of the effectiveness of moxibustion, and persistence in moxibustion can alleviate the symptoms.
4. Mottled skin or red spots after moxibustion
Mottled skin or red spots with an itchy sensation may appear after moxibustion. Mottled skin appears as red and white patches, while red spots are mostly itchy. Mottled skin is mostly caused by heavy cold and dampness in the body, and it usually disappears after a period of moxibustion, along with an improvement in the overall condition. Red spots mostly indicate excessive cold and dampness in the body, and they usually appear after a period of moxibustion. After the appearance of red spots, it is not advisable to use portable moxibustion. Direct moxibustion with strong heat is needed, and the symptoms will gradually alleviate.
5. Insomnia or excessive sleepiness
Insomnia mostly occurs during a certain period of moxibustion and is mainly caused by the expulsion of cold pathogen. Some may experience continuous sleeplessness and discomfort. However, afterwards, most people can feel an improvement in their condition.
Excessive sleepiness after moxibustion is more common. After moxibustion, the balance between yin and yang is reestablished, and the body's positive energy and pathogenic energy will compete with each other. Sleep provides a good battlefield for this struggle and helps the body recover. At this time, it is important to rest properly and avoid moxibustion too late at night.
6. Frequent urination
Some people experience frequent urination after moxibustion, which is also a manifestation of toxins being expelled through the urinary tract. In this case, it is recommended to drink more water. There is no need to worry as these reactions will gradually disappear.
Frequent urination after moxibustion often indicates a not so good condition of the kidneys and urinary system. In women, it may indicate gynecological problems.
7. Diarrhea
Some people experience frequent and foul-smelling diarrhea after moxibustion. This is also a reaction to the expulsion of pathogenic energy. Those who experience this symptom may have gastrointestinal problems or the occurrence of tumors. It is mostly related to intestinal problems.
8. Water discharge from the navel
If water is discharged from the navel after moxibustion, and if it is excessive, it may also be a reaction to the expulsion of dampness caused by moxibustion, indicating the presence of cold and dampness inside the body. It is recommended to keep the abdomen warm, avoid cold, eat light and easily digestible food, avoid raw and cold food, and drink more ginger and brown sugar water and hot soups and porridge.
9. Early or delayed menstruation
The first effect of moxibustion is on the female and male reproductive systems. Therefore, for women who undergo moxibustion, the first three months are the adjustment period, and menstruation may occur earlier or later during this period.
10. Sensation of cold
Some people may feel a cold breeze after moxibustion. This is more likely to occur in individuals with a cold constitution, and it is recommended to continue moxibustion. Some people may experience cold sweat on their palms and soles during moxibustion, which is also a sensation of cold and requires further moxibustion.
11. Sensation of heat
After moxibustion, there may be a sensation of heat, starting from the abdomen and reaching the upper back to the Baihui point, and then going down to the Yongquan point. This indicates that the meridians are unblocked and the effect is good.
12. Feeling of heaviness
The detoxification reaction after moxibustion also includes a feeling of heaviness, as if there is a large stone pressing on the body. This is a normal phenomenon because the circulation of qi and blood is not smooth, and the meridians are not unobstructed. Moxibustion stimulates the body's positive energy, impacting the meridians.
Effects and benefits of moxibustion on the navel
1. Moxibustion on the navel can enhance the function of the spleen and stomach, promote the ascending of yang energy and the descending of turbid yin energy, and play a role in tonifying the spleen and stomach. It is mainly used to treat stomach pain, indigestion, vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
2. Moxibustion on the navel can stimulate the function of the San Jiao meridian, dredge the meridians, promote the smooth flow of qi, and accelerate metabolism. It can help alleviate urinary difficulties, edema, and obesity.
3. Moxibustion on the navel can regulate the Chong and Ren meridians, stabilize menstruation, and is suitable for treating irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, excessive menstruation, abnormal vaginal discharge, infertility, melasma, and dull complexion.
4. Moxibustion on the navel can regulate qi and activate blood circulation, activate channels and collaterals, and is suitable for treating intestinal paralysis, numbness in hands and feet, and various types of pain.
5. Moxibustion on the navel can regulate the balance of nutrition in the organs, promote the smooth flow of qi and blood, and help calm the mind. It is commonly used in the treatment of night sweats, spontaneous sweating, abnormal vaginal discharge, nocturnal emission, spermatorrhea, palpitations, and insomnia.
Precautions for moxibustion
1. Be focused and patient
When performing moxibustion, it is important to concentrate and not be distracted, to avoid the moxa stick moving away from the acupoint, which can cause injury and waste time. For health maintenance moxibustion, it is necessary to persist in the long term. Occasional moxibustion will not achieve the desired effect.
2. Pay attention to correct posture and accurate acupoints
The posture should be suitable for moxibustion needs and also comfortable and natural. The acupoints should be accurately located according to the prescription to ensure the effectiveness of moxibustion.
3. Fire prevention
Modern clothing is often made of synthetic fibers or down, which is easily flammable. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to fire prevention during moxibustion, especially when using moxa sticks, to prevent them from rolling and falling off. After using a moxa stick, you can insert the ignited end into a bottle slightly larger than the moxa stick diameter to facilitate extinguishing.
4. Keep warm and prevent heatstroke
During moxibustion, certain parts of the body will be exposed. It is necessary to keep warm in winter and prevent heatstroke in hot summer temperatures. Additionally, attention should be paid to adjusting indoor temperature and using ventilation fans to ensure fresh air circulation.
5. Prevent infection
Pus formation or ulceration may occur due to suppurative moxibustion or improper moxibustion, it is important not to break the ulcer. If infection occurs, timely use of anti-inflammatory drugs is necessary.
6. Master the moxibustion procedure
If multiple acupoints are involved and dispersed, moxibustion should be performed on the back first, then the chest and abdomen, and then the head and body before moving to the limbs.
7. Pay attention to moxibustion timing
Some conditions require attention to moxibustion timing, such as insomnia, which should be performed before falling asleep. Moxibustion should not be performed on an empty stomach before meals or immediately after meals.
8. Start with small doses for first-time moxibustion
It is important to control the stimulation level when first using moxibustion. Start with a small amount or a short duration of moxibustion, such as using a small moxa stick or moxibustion for a shorter time. Gradually increase the dosage later. Avoid starting with a large dose.
9. Prevent fainting during moxibustion
Although fainting is rare, once it occurs, it may cause symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, pale complexion, palpitations, and sweating, or even fainting. If fainting occurs, immediately stop moxibustion and lie down quietly, and then apply moxibustion on the Zusanli point gently for about 10 minutes.
10. Adjust moxibustion temperature
For individuals with dull skin sensation or children, it is recommended to place the index and middle fingers on both sides of the moxibustion area to sense the temperature and ensure that the skin is not burned while achieving good results.
