Why does a lot of water come out when moxibustion is applied to the abdomen?

Generally, the appearance of water on the abdomen after moxibustion may be caused by factors such as local sweat secretion, water vapor from the moxibustion medium, cold-damp constitution, spleen and stomach deficiency, or chronic enteritis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Local Sweat Secretion

During moxibustion, the temperature of the abdomen increases, stimulating the sweat glands in the skin to secrete sweat. Especially when the ambient temperature is high or the duration of moxibustion is prolonged, sweat may accumulate and appear as water discharge. This phenomenon typically has no odor, and the skin does not show redness or swelling. No special treatment is required; simply wipe dry with a clean towel after moxibustion and avoid catching a chill.

2. Water Vapor from Moxibustion Medium

If mediums such as ginger slices or aconite cakes are used during moxibustion, the moisture within these mediums may evaporate when heated and condense on the skin surface as water droplets, which is a physical phenomenon. To reduce this, replace the medium with a dry one or shorten each moxibustion session to 15-20 minutes to minimize vapor production.

3. Cold-Damp Constitution

Individuals with excessive internal cold and dampness may experience external discharge of dampness through the skin due to the warming effects of moxibustion, manifesting as clear water droplets. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as heaviness in the body and a thick white tongue coating. Gentle moxibustion can be continued approximately 2-3 times per week, combined with drinking ginger and red date tea, while avoiding raw and cold foods.

4. Spleen and Stomach Deficiency

When the spleen and stomach functions are weakened, internal accumulation of dampness may occur. Moxibustion stimulation along the spleen and stomach meridians may cause dampness to be expelled through the skin surface, potentially accompanied by abdominal distension and loose stools. It is recommended to reduce the intensity of moxibustion by opting for a gentler method and follow medical advice to take Shen Ling Bai Zhu San. Dietary adjustments should include spleen-strengthening foods such as yam and lotus seeds.

5. Chronic Enteritis

Internal accumulation of cold-damp or damp-heat in the intestines may lead to increased intestinal motility during moxibustion, causing inflammation-related increased secretion from the intestinal mucosa, some of which may permeate through the abdominal wall. This may be accompanied by abdominal pain and diarrhea. It is advised to discontinue moxibustion and seek medical consultation to determine the type of enteritis. For cold-damp type, Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan may be taken under medical guidance, while the damp-heat type should be treated with Ge Gen Qin Lian Pian as advised.

If excessive water discharge occurs after moxibustion accompanied by skin itching, redness, pain, foul odor, or persistent increase in discharge volume, moxibustion should be stopped immediately, and medical attention should be sought to rule out skin infections or internal organ diseases to prevent delay in treatment. Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of trained professionals, and individuals with weak constitutions should avoid strong stimulation.