Scarring moxibustion

The method of treatment whereby moxa is burned on the body and leaves a scar. Scarring moxibustion employs a small cone of moxa wool (some less than 1 cm in diameter) that is placed directly on the skin and completely burned. The area is then wiped clean with a cloth and the process is repeated until the prescribed number of cones has been burned. When this has been done, the area should be carefully cleaned and dressed. After one to three days, the patient will develop a blister that will eventually leave a small scar. The blister generally takes about a month to heal. During this time, the patient must keep the area clean and frequently change the dressing to prevent infection. The scarring method is the most drastic form of moxibustion. The formation of a blister was traditionally considered important in the healing process and thus it is said that if moxibustion does not form a blister, the disease will not be cured. This method is currently used in China to treat severe vacuity cold or cold-damp diseases. When performing scarring moxibustion, note the following:

1. The pre-burning of a cone or two not quite down to the skin is a way to accustom the patient gradually to the burning pain. These pre-burned cones, however, should not be counted toward the prescribed number.
2. When the moxa is burning, the practitioner should scratch or tap the area around the point to reduce the burning pain.
3. The number of recommended cones should be adjusted to the patient’s condition. Strong young patients can withstand more burnings and larger cones than weak elderly patients.
4. The patient should be given a full explanation about the procedure and be forewarned of the formation of a scar.
5. Garlic juice or some other liquid is usually placed on the point being treated in order to secure the moxa cone.