What are the contraindications for applying mugwort leaves to an infant's abdomen?

Infants have delicate skin and immature organ functions, so risks must be strictly avoided when applying mugwort to the abdomen. Common contraindications include avoiding use in cases of allergic constitution, broken skin, overfullness or hunger, long-term or frequent application, and cautious use for infants with cold-deficient constitution. Specific details are as follows:

1. Avoid in allergic constitution: Mugwort contains volatile oils and other components that may trigger allergic reactions. Infants with allergies may develop redness, itching, rashes on the abdominal skin after application, and even show systemic discomfort such as persistent crying and vomiting. These infants should completely avoid its use.

2. Avoid with broken skin: If an infant has wounds, abrasions, eczema, or diaper rash on the abdomen, the irritant components in mugwort may aggravate inflammation at the damaged site and increase the risk of infection, worsening discomfort symptoms.

3. Avoid during overfullness or hunger: Applying mugwort after feeding may exert pressure on the abdomen and interfere with digestion, leading to spitting up or bloating. When the infant is hungry, their body sensitivity increases, and the stimulation from the application may cause discomfort and crying, affecting emotional stability.

4. Avoid long-term or frequent use: Mugwort is warm in nature; prolonged or frequent abdominal application may lead to internal heat accumulation, causing symptoms such as dry mouth, constipation, and restlessness. Repeated stimulation of the abdominal skin may also weaken the skin's barrier function and increase the risk of allergy.

5. Use with caution in cold-deficient constitution: For infants with a cold-deficient constitution—manifested by loose stools, cold hands and feet, and pale complexion—mugwort application should be used cautiously. Although mugwort is warming, excessive or improper use may worsen spleen-stomach deficiency-cold, impairing digestive and absorptive functions.

When using mugwort for abdominal application, proper procedures must also be observed, including controlling duration and temperature of application. It should only be performed after fully understanding the infant’s constitution and strictly following correct methods to ensure safety and appropriateness.