What are the uses of moxibustion belly button patches, and can they be applied for a long time?
Recently, my stomach and intestines have not been feeling well; I always suffer from indigestion and am prone to stomach pain caused by getting chilled. I heard that moxibustion patch applied on the navel is quite effective. I wonder whether it will truly help with my gastrointestinal issues. Also, is it safe to use these patches on a long-term basis?
Doctor's answer (1)
It is not recommended to use moxibustion patches on the navel for an extended period.
Moxibustion patches primarily utilize the functions of moxa (mugwort) to warm the meridians and dispel cold, promote blood circulation, and remove blood stasis. By applying the patch on the navel, it achieves the purpose of regulating the body through dual effects of skin absorption and acupoint stimulation.
Functions of Moxibustion Patches:
1. Warm the meridians and stop bleeding: Moxa has a warm nature and can warm the meridians, stop bleeding, and effectively alleviate various bleeding disorders.
2. Reduce swelling and relieve pain: The warm and pungent properties of moxa can dispel cold, relieve pain, and are suitable for various types of pain caused by yang deficiency with excessive cold or invasion of wind-cold-damp pathogenic factors.
3. Eliminate dampness and relieve itching: The warm and pungent nature of moxa can disperse cold, regulate qi and blood, and expel wind-cold-damp pathogens, offering certain therapeutic effects for skin conditions such as eczema and itching.
4. Harmonize the stomach and regulate the intestines: Applying moxibustion patches on the navel can stimulate this area, achieving effects of harmonizing the stomach and regulating the intestines, which helps alleviate abdominal pain, prolapse of the rectum, and similar conditions.
If moxibustion patches are used for a prolonged period, they may cause skin allergies or dependency on the components of moxa, leading to a decreased regulatory capacity and even menstrual disorders.
