Key Points and Solutions to Enhance the Curative Effects of Moxibustion Therapy

Objective： To elucidate the key effects of moxibustion points and quantity of moxibustion used in order to enhance the curative effect of moxibustion therapy. Methods： It analyzed the occurrence rules of acupoint heat-sensitization and its relationship to the moxibustion location and dose, in view of the original definition of acupoints in Nei Jing （Internal Canon） and the acupoint heat-sensitization in clinical practice. Results： （1） The original definition of acupoint is the reflecting area of a disease on surface of the body, which is individualized, motive and sensitive; （2） The location in which heat-sensitization is generated relating to a heat-sensitive acupoint, which therefore depicts the best choice for point selection and also the most accurate area to give moxibustion; （3） The heat-sensitization time can be taken as a clinical index to quantify the moxibustion dose, in order to apply sufficient moxibustion for each individual. Conclusion： The key points for enhancing the curative effect of moxibustion therapy are to identify heat-sensitive points and a scientific moxibustion dose.

Regularity of Moxibustion Quantity

The composition of moxibustion quantity is discussed, and it is believed that the effective moxibustion quantity is a certain threshold range, which is influenced by the functional state of the patient and different moxibustion methods. Based on the foundation of conventional moxibustion quantity, the quantity should be adjusted according to patient＇s constitution, age, moxibustion area, affected region, nature of disease and the sensitivity. Through different methods and techniques, the stimulus intensity and time can be altered to approach a proper moxibustion quantity.

Functional Mechanism of Moxibustion and Its Enlightenment to Design and Manufacture of Moxibustion Apparatus

Objective： To explore the functional mechanism of moxibustion and its enlightenment to the design and manufacture of moxibustion apparatus. Methods： The functional mechanism of moxibustion is explored from its pharmaceutical properties, warming stimulation, spectrum, radiation features, and penetrating effects of moxa products. Result： The mechanism of moxibustion is a combined action of moxa＇ medicinal properties, warming effect and non-thermal effect. Conclusion： It is necessary to combine with the functional mechanism to design and manufacture moxibustion apparatus.

Volatile Constituents of Folium Artemisiae Argyi of Different Sources

Objective： To compare the volatile constituents of folium artemisiae argyi in order to provide chemical evidence for quality standardization. Methods： Volatile oil was extracted from folium artemisiae argyi from five sources by vapour distillation and then detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer （GC-MS） to identify and semi-quantify its chemical constituents. Results： The folium artemisiae argyi in Qichun （Hubei Province） and Anguo （Hebei Province） contained many volatile constituents, with uniform and stable contents of these volatile constituents. Conclusion： The types and contents of volatile oil of folium artemisiae argyi are varied in different sources.

Safety Concerns about the Application of Moxa

Objective： To discuss the safety issues of moxibustion therapy in view of moxibustion materials. Methods： The analyses and assessment were performed based on the survey carried out on the use of moxa, modem and ancient records, modem studies, and clinical applications. Results： Moxa has been used as both a medicine and a food for a long history in China. Regarding moxibustion specifically, moxa has been proven to be the optimum choice for moxibustion therapy, through practices and experiments by doctors from different generations. No records have shown any sideor adverse-effects of moxa applied in moxibustion therapy. Conclusion： Moxa has been used in multiple ways for several thousands of years by Chinese people. As the main material for moxibustion therapy, its safety has been proven by documents and clinical practices.