Acumoxatherapy or Zhenjiu in Chinese is more commonly known as acupuncture in the West. Acumoxatherapy is the traditional Chinese medicine of acupuncture (zhen) and moxibustion (jiu).
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points in the body to stimulate the flow of Qi (pronounced chee) energy to promote health and well-being.
Acupuncture is often combined with moxibustion which involves the smouldering of the herb moxa (Artemisia Vulgaris) to gently warm acupuncture points to strengthen and stimulate Qi and blood.
Acupuncture has been practiced in East Asia for over two thousand years.
Acupuncture points are located on the body along the course of channels where the Qi flows strongly. The channels are associated with the major organs and by stimulating the flow of Qi the function of the organs are regulated.
Research has indicated that acupuncture can effect blood pressure, hormonal levels, white blood cell production, and areas of the brain.
Acupuncture treats the individual and not just the symptoms they are suffering from. It respects each individual's unique experience of health and illness and treats the mind, body and spirit of the person as an integrated whole. Acupuncture can also be used preventatively to improve health and well-being.
The qi in the body, is as the flow of water, moving incessantly like the sun and moon. — Li Shi Zhen (16th Century)