Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic and often uncomfortable condition that affects the digestive system and due to its inflammatory nature it is considered an autoimmune disease. IBS is a very complicated issue as it broadly affects muscles, mucus membranes, the endocrine system, and the nervous system. For someone suffering with IBS they often experience a range of symptoms, including:

• abdominal pain and cramping,
• bloating,
• diarrhoea,
• constipation,
• and changes in bowel habits.

These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, creating discomfort and, at times, anxiety about daily activities and eating meals.

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning that while the digestive tract appears normal upon examination, its function is disrupted. The exact cause of IBS is unclear, but contributing factors may include:

• stress,
• diet,
• hormonal changes,
• and an imbalance in the gut-brain axis.

There are different types of IBS, including IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D), IBS with constipation (IBS-C), and a mixed form (IBS-M) that involves both diarrhoea and constipation. None of which, are pleasant.

Traditional management of IBS often involves a combination of dietary changes, stress management, and medications aimed at symptom relief. However, many individuals find that conventional treatments may not provide lasting comfort, leading them to explore complementary and alternative therapies. One such therapy, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is moxibustion.

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion (or Moxa) is a natural therapeutic technique that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) to apply heat to specific acupuncture points on the body. The herb is typically rolled into a cigar-like stick, ignited, and held near the skin to deliver warmth. The technique can be used alone or in combination with acupuncture to enhance its therapeutic effects.

This ancient practice has been used in East Asia for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of ailments, particularly those related to abdominal pain and digestive issues. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, moxibustion is believed to warm the meridians within the body, dispel the cold, and invigorate the flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body, promoting healing and restoring balance.

How Can Moxibustion Help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

A 2022 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology explored the effects of mild moxibustion on patients with IBS-D (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea). The study involved 76 participants who received either mild moxibustion or placebo treatments over six weeks. The results were promising, showing a significantly higher response rate in the moxibustion group (81.58%) compared to the placebo group (36.84%).

Participants in the study experienced not only short-term relief but also lasting benefits, with effects continuing up to 12 weeks after treatment. Key improvements included:

• reduced abdominal pain,
• fewer days with pain,
• decreased severity of abdominal distension,
• and better satisfaction with bowel habits.
• Additionally, quality of life measures showed positive changes in mental and physical well-being.

Moxibustion may help alleviate IBS symptoms by regulating the gut-brain axis, improving the function of the stomach and intestines, and boosting the body’s immune system. The gentle warmth of moxibustion is also thought to improve circulation, reduce stress, and support overall digestive health.

The warmth generated by moxibustion penetrates deeper than the skin, working at a cellular level to stimulate healing responses throughout the body. It activates the cell membrane, encouraging repair and function across various tissues, including organ tissue, nerve tissue, and muscle tissue. This is one of the reasons why moxibustion is particularly beneficial for IBS, as it may help regulate the digestive system and restore balance within the gut.

What to Expect During a Moxibustion Session

During a moxibustion session for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), your practitioner will typically apply the moxa to specific digestive health acupuncture points. The warmth applied to these points is carefully controlled to provide comfort without any burning sensation.

The treatment is generally relaxing, with many people finding the experience soothing and nurturing.

Is Moxibustion Safe?

The study reported no severe adverse effects associated with mild moxibustion. Mild side effects, such as warmth or mild itching, were rare and well-tolerated. However, as with any treatment, it is important to seek care and advice from a qualified practitioner.

Conclusion: A Path to Digestive Comfort

For those living with IBS, especially the diarrhea-predominant type, moxibustion may offer a gentle and holistic approach to managing symptoms. By embracing traditional healing techniques alongside modern understanding, individuals may find relief and a greater sense of well-being.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with IBS, consider exploring moxibustion as part of a broader wellness plan. With the guidance of a skilled TCM practitioner, you can take steps toward digestive harmony and a more comfortable life.

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If Moxibustions is something you would like to explore to find relief, book an appointment with one of our qualified and certified Gold Coast Acupuncture Practitioners today.

Call 07 5571 0001 or make an online appointment via the button below.

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*Every person and circumstance is unique. The results shared in this article are individual experiences and may not reflect your specific situation. We cannot guarantee similar results. Please consult with your practitioner for a personalised assessment and to discuss the best approach for your needs.

References:

Wang, Z., Xu, M., Shi, Z., Bao, C., Liu, H., Zhou, C., Yan, Y., Wang, C., Li, G., Zhang, W., Gao, A., & Wu, H. (2022). Mild moxibustion for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D): A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 289, 115064. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.115064

Zhang, M., Ma, Y., Ye, X., Zhang, N., Pan, L., & Wang, B. (2023). TRP (transient receptor potential) ion channel family: Structures, biological functions, and therapeutic interventions for diseases. Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, 8(261). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41392-023-01464-x