Edema

Transforming Dampness

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, edema (usually swelling of the extremities) is considered a type of dampness that collects in the body because the body is not transforming fluids efficiently. Often women with edema will be fatigued and have a tendency to bloating and loose stools–more evidence that the body is not transforming substances effectively.

The best type of treatment for edema is moxibustion, which is burning of mugwort over acupoints on the body. In China, moxibustion is used as frequently as acupuncture needles. It is a different type of stimulation well-suited for tonification.

The pictures below demonstrate how to give yourself a moxibustion treatment. Supplies are available at Whole Family Health. To purchase moxa, you must have received a minimum of 1 treatment at our clinic, or attended one of our seminars. After an initial treatment, you can continue to treat yourself at home.

If the edema is still noticeable when you wake up in the morning, or is accompanied by rapid weight gain or swelling in the face, contact your healthcare provider immediately. These are all signs of preeclampsia.

Acupoints for Edema

Apply moxa over Spleen 9 and Stomach 36 (pictured below). Hold the moxa stick 2-3 inches over each acupoint for 5 minutes or until the point feels very warm. Repeat this treatment every day for 7 consecutive days. **It may take several treatments until you see a noticeable difference.

Moxibustion at Spleen 9 for Edema

Spleen 9 is located below the medial condyle of the knee. Feel for the lower border of the bone on the inside of the knee (the medial condyle). Spleen 9 will be located just below the bone. The best way to locate this point is to feel around for the sorest point in the general vicinity. Spleen 9 is generally quite sore on anyone with edema.

Moxibustion at Stomach 36 for Edema

Stomach 36 is located 4 finger-breadths below the eyes of the knee, on the lateral side of the shin bone. The easiest way to locate this point is to hold your four fingers together and place your index finger in the large depression that is formed when you bend your knee. Stomach 36 will be below your little finger, just off the shin bone on the outside of your leg.