What are the signs of discharging stagnant blood through moxibustion?

Generally, during or after moxibustion, the phenomenon of expelling stagnant blood may occur, with common manifestations including local skin discoloration, appearance of petechiae or ecchymosis, abnormal secretions, reduced pain, and a warm sensation in the body. The details are as follows:

1. Local skin discoloration: The skin at the moxibustion site may turn dark red, purplish-black, or show other color changes. This is mainly due to the warming effect of moxibustion promoting meridian circulation, causing underlying subcutaneous stagnant blood to become visible or expelled. The intensity of the color often correlates with the severity of blood stasis.

2. Appearance of petechiae or ecchymosis: After moxibustion, some individuals may develop spots or patches of bruising of varying sizes at acupoints. This is a direct sign that stagnant blood is being expelled through the skin and typically fades gradually over time.

3. Abnormal secretions: In individuals with internal blood stasis, moxibustion may lead to bloody streaks in vaginal discharge or the expulsion of blood clots during menstruation. These phenomena are particularly noticeable around the menstrual period and are common signs of stagnant blood being eliminated.

4. Reduced pain: Blood stasis often causes localized pain. During the process of eliminating stasis via moxibustion, as meridians gradually become unblocked and stagnation dissipates, discomfort such as distending or stabbing pain significantly decreases, leading to improved physical mobility.

5. Warm sensation in the body: The thermal energy from moxibustion penetrates into the body. During the removal of stagnant blood, individuals may continuously feel warmth, and some may experience mild sweating—indirect signs of enhanced qi and blood circulation and resolution of blood stasis.

When undergoing moxibustion, it is also important to observe contraindications and precautions. The procedure should be performed by trained professionals who can properly control treatment duration and select appropriate acupoints, avoiding blind or improper use to ensure both safety and effectiveness.