Moxibustion is a form of heat treatment that stimulates specific acupuncture points of the body. The term is derived from the Japanese “mogusa” meaning herb (mugwort) and the Latin “bustion” meaning burning.
Traditionally moxa is used to warm the body but it is also effective in breaking up any unexplained hardness in the body, frees the channels, stimulates microcirculation, and circulates blood and draws out toxins. It can be used on its own or as part of the acupuncture treatment.
Moxibustion for Breech Presentation
Moxibustion for turning breech babies has known for a long time now and used mostly in maternity units in hospitals. By burning a moxa stick over one of the acupuncture points in the feet it can relax the muscles in the uterus allowing the baby to turn.
Moxibustion is a completely safe and very gentle way of attempting to turn babies. The best results are often gained before week 36/37 as after this stage there is so little room for the baby to move.
Usually only one treatment is required, where the acupuncturist will do the moxibustion, teach where the points are, and then give a moxa stick to the patient to continue the process at home.