Moxibustion by the seasons

You may have heard of people who during certain times of the year undergo dog-day and three-nine-day moxibustion therapy. This kind of therapy seems like you must do it only at certain times, so what exactly is it and what can it do for you?

Chinese medicine believes that seasonal climate changes aggravate some illnesses while providing relief from others. The first character of the Chinese name for this specific moxibustion therapy represents time and climate. It is based on the coldest and hottest days of the year, calculated from three of the 24 Solar Terms: “winter solstice”, “summer solstice”, and “the beginning of the autumn season”; as well as the theory of “treat winter diseases in the summer and summer diseases in the winter”.

Dog-day and three-nine-day moxibustion therapy is carried out by Chinese medicine practitioners who apply stimulating herbal patches to the acupuncture points or affected areas of the body. This causes skin congestion, blister or festering, which helps to improve the circulation of Qi and blood, reinforce the spleen, lung and kidney. The heating effect of the patches also warms the meridians - dispelling cold and dampness - and relieves pain and blockages. It helps to activate the body's immune system and is said to be effective in treating respiratory illnesses like nasal allergies, asthma and bronchitis; while at the same time strengthening the body to prevent catching the flu.

This easily performed therapy has become increasingly popular. Let’s listen to Dr Yang Jun Jun, Lecturer I, Clinical Division of the School of Chinese Medicine at Hong Kong Baptist University, as he explains what to pay attention to when undergoing the treatment.

*If you have any questions or need any advice on the content of these tips, please consult a registered Chinese medicine practitioner or other qualified professional.