Can moxibustion be used for diabetes? How to perform moxibustion?
Nov 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Diabetic patients can undergo moxibustion therapy, which has an auxiliary effect in controlling blood glucose levels. Moxibustion applies thermal stimulation to specific areas of the body, helping regulate the physiological functions of various internal organs and promoting the circulation of qi and blood throughout the body. Appropriate moxibustion for diabetic patients can improve local microcirculation and aid in increasing basal metabolic rate and controlling body weight.
Patients with diabetes can undergo moxibustion therapy, which may serve as an auxiliary treatment to help control blood glucose levels. Moxibustion applies thermal stimulation to specific areas of the body, helping regulate the physiological functions of various internal organs and promoting the circulation of qi and blood throughout the body. Appropriate moxibustion for diabetic patients can improve local microcirculation and assist in increasing basal metabolic rate and managing body weight. Specific details are as follows:
Diabetic patients can benefit from moxibustion as a complementary approach to help regulate blood sugar. Moxibustion is a physical therapy method that involves burning or warming acupoints on the body surface using mugwort wool or moxa sticks. By leveraging the heat and medicinal effects of moxa, this technique works through meridian transmission to promote the smooth flow of qi and blood, support healthy bodily functions, and expel pathogenic factors. Commonly used acupoints for diabetic patients include Zhangmen (LR13), Guanyuan (CV4), Zhongwan (CV12), Qihai (CV6), Zusanli (ST36), Pishu (BL20), and Shenshu (BL23). Moxibustion at these points can contribute to improved blood glucose regulation.
However, moxibustion alone cannot reverse the underlying mechanisms of diabetes. Patients should still actively pursue standardized glucose-lowering treatments. Additionally, diabetic patients should adopt lifestyle interventions, avoid consuming high-sugar and greasy foods, and increase intake of dietary fiber-rich vegetables such as celery, rape greens, and cabbage. Regular physical exercise should also be maintained to help control body weight and support blood glucose regulation.
Moreover, diabetic patients must take care to protect their skin during moxibustion to prevent burns. Due to elevated blood glucose levels, diabetic individuals have a higher risk of infection. Skin injuries, if occurred, may easily lead to systemic infections.
