Common Questions About Traditional Chinese Medicine: Answers from a Doctor

Q: Common Questions About Traditional Chinese Medicine: Answers from a Doctor

1： Artemisia argyi, a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, grows about two to three feet tall in spring. <br>Its leaves resemble those of chrysanthemums, with a deep green surface and a dense layer of grayish-white hairs on the underside. <br>The leaves

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Hello, doctor.
I have a few questions I would like to ask you, and I hope you can spare some time to help me!
1.
I understand that burning mugwort can repel mosquitoes and flies, but I am puzzled: I have dried the mugwort, yet I cannot get it to catch fire.
Why is that?
2.
Regarding acupuncture in traditional Chinese medicine: during one session, a little blood came out when the needle was inserted.
Does this mean that the acupuncturist did not hit the acupuncture point correctly?
3.
I know a bit about foot massage, but it’s just basic kneading or tapping on the feet.
Could you teach me a few techniques? Specifically, what are the correct and effective methods for foot massage?

Yao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/05/03

Dr. Zhuang Yihui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1: Artemisia argyi, a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, grows about two to three feet tall in spring.
Its leaves resemble those of chrysanthemums, with a deep green surface and a dense layer of grayish-white hairs on the underside.
The leaves and stems contain oil glands that emit a distinctive aroma.
In summer and autumn, it produces small light brown flowers.
This plant is found throughout Taiwan, with the best quality coming from Qizhou.
The collection method involves harvesting before the Dragon Boat Festival, when the plant has not yet flowered.
Select wild specimens with tall stems and thick, long leaves.
Remove the stems and any withered leaves, wash them with water, and dry them.
Then, remove the stems and place the leaves in a bamboo sieve, rubbing them by hand.
Next, they are placed in a stone mortar and pounded until crushed, then returned to the sieve to remove coarse residues.
This process is repeated until only fine, grayish-white fibers remain, resembling cotton, known as moxa.
The quality of moxa improves with age; as Mencius stated, "For a seven-year illness, seek three-year moxa." This indicates that long-stored moxa is effective for treating ailments.
However, it is important to protect it from moisture and insects during long-term storage.
It is not recommended for use against mosquitoes and flies, as it is ineffective.
2: Subcutaneous microvascular bleeding is a normal phenomenon, and bloodletting at acupuncture points is one of the treatment methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
3: Please seek qualified medical personnel for assistance.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2002/05/03

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Let's address each of your inquiries one by one.

1. Why won't dried mugwort (艾草) catch fire?
Mugwort is often used in TCM, particularly in moxibustion, where it is burned to warm specific acupuncture points. If your dried mugwort isn't catching fire, it might be due to a few reasons. First, the moisture content in the herb can affect its combustibility. If the mugwort is not completely dried, it may smolder rather than burn. Additionally, the way the mugwort is prepared can influence its ability to ignite. It should be loosely packed to allow for airflow, which helps in combustion. If you are using it for moxibustion, ensure that you are using the correct form, such as moxa sticks or loose moxa, specifically prepared for this purpose.

2. Is bleeding during acupuncture a sign of improper technique?
Experiencing a small amount of blood when an acupuncture needle is removed does not necessarily mean that the acupuncturist missed the point or did not insert the needle correctly. Minor bleeding can occur due to the puncturing of a small blood vessel, which is not uncommon, especially in areas with a rich blood supply. However, if you experience excessive bleeding or bruising, it may be worth discussing with your practitioner to ensure that the technique is appropriate for your condition. Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a trained professional, and minor bleeding is usually not a cause for concern.

3. Can you teach me some effective foot massage techniques?
Foot massage, or reflexology, is a wonderful way to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Here are a few simple techniques you can try:
- Thumb Walking: Use your thumbs to walk along the sole of the foot, applying gentle pressure. Start from the heel and move towards the toes, then back down. This technique stimulates the reflex points corresponding to various organs.

- Kneading: Use your fingers to knead the arch of the foot. This can help relieve tension and improve blood flow. Apply pressure with your thumbs while using your fingers to support the foot.

- Toe Pulls: Gently grasp each toe and pull it away from the foot. This can help relieve tension in the toes and improve flexibility.

- Ankle Rotations: Hold the foot with one hand and use the other hand to gently rotate the ankle in circles. This helps to loosen the joints and improve mobility.

- Pressure Points: Focus on specific pressure points on the foot. For example, the area just below the ball of the foot corresponds to the heart, while the heel corresponds to the lower back. Applying pressure to these areas can help alleviate discomfort in those corresponding regions.

When performing foot massage, always communicate with the person receiving the massage about their comfort level and adjust your pressure accordingly. It's essential to create a relaxing environment, perhaps with soothing music or a comfortable setting.

In conclusion, TCM offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, and understanding its practices can enhance your experience. If you have further questions or concerns, consider consulting a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs. Thank you for your inquiries, and I hope this information helps you in your exploration of Traditional Chinese Medicine!

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