Heat & Cupping therapy

Aside from acupunture, I am also having moxibustion and cupping therapy. These two treatment modalities are used in conjunction with acupuncture.

Moxibustion is commonly known as heat therapy. It is applied directly on the acu-point. It uses the 'moxa' or the wool of the mugwort leaf. This treatment aids the flow of 'Qi ',energy and 'Xue', blood. It leaves strong fumes that stick to my hair and clothing for an entire day.

Cupping therapy uses plastic or glass suction cups. The skin on the affected area is pricked. Vacuum, applied in the suction cups, will draw 'bad' blood from the tiny puncture holes on the skin. This treatment helps relieve pain but it leaves ugly markings on the skin which will eventually vanish in a couple of days.