Moxa, also known as Mugwort, or its scientific name Artemisia vulgaris can be found growing throughout Washington. Moxa is a natural remedy for a variety of ailments and has a long history of use in medicine. It has been used for millennia in Chinese medicine to increase blood flow, treat menstrual issues, turn breech babies and aid with pain. The Chinese aren’t the only ones who took advantage of mugwort’s healing properties. It is believed that the Romans planted it along the roadside to allow travelers access to it. The mugwort would be placed in the traveler’s shoe or sandal to relieve aching, painful feet and counteract the effects of exhaustion. One of the active components found in mugwort, borneol, is currently found in a number of modern day topical therapies because of its analgesic properties.

Besides helping with pain, moxa can be used to prevent colds and flus and strengthen the immune system. Starting a moxa regimen in early fall can significantly decrease your risk of getting sick. If you still manage to catch a cold, it can diminish the severity of it. Moxa is also a great remedy for those of us who live in the PNW, as it is especially good at reducing pain worsened by cold and/or damp conditions. If you notice that you are more achy and have increased pain during the winter months, then a moxa regimen may be extremely helpful.

Moxa has also been shown to help with fatigue, digestive issues, and arthritis pain, as well as treating nausea, diarrhea, congestion, and some respiratory ailments just to name a few. If you would like to know more about moxa, or to discover how it might help you please leave a comment below, visit our website at www.compassacu.com to request a free consultation, or contact our office at info@compassacu.com.