Is moxibustion effective for migraine?
Disease description:
I have been suffering from frequent migraines recently. I've taken many medications prescribed at the hospital, but none have been very effective. Therefore, I would like to try moxibustion. I was wondering if moxibustion is effective for treating migraines?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Moxibustion is generally effective for migraine. Moxibustion has functions including warming the meridians and dispersing cold, supporting yang and preventing prolapse, resolving blood stasis and dissipating nodules, as well as disease prevention and health maintenance. Performing moxibustion on the meridians and acupoints around the area affected by migraine can warm and unblock the channels, improve local blood and qi circulation, and thereby alleviate migraine symptoms. Commonly selected acupoints include Baihui (GV20), Fengchi (GB20), Fengmen (BL12), and Zhongwan (CV12).
The duration of moxibustion should not be too long, as it may worsen headache symptoms. Additionally, patients with migraine undergoing moxibustion therapy should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular作息 (作息 means作息 schedule or routine), avoiding excessive fatigue and excessive mental stress. Moreover, moxibustion should not be performed if the patient suffers from heatstroke, hypertensive crisis, or massive hemoptysis in advanced stages of tuberculosis.
Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician.
