Moxibustion is a traditional East Asian medical therapy that uses heat generated by burning herbal preparations containing Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort or common wormwood) to stimulate acupuncture points.

Prof. Ernst and colleagues evaluated the evidence. (more…)

Prof. Ernst and colleagues report, “Several studies have reported that moxibustion is effective in ulcerative colitis.”

But, is that enough? (more…)

Prof. Ernst and colleagues report, “All studies [of moxibustion] have a high risk of bias.”

And that’s the good news. (more…)

Meniere’s syndrome damages the balance and hearing parts of the inner ear.

Researchers from the University of Leeds, in the UK reviewed the effects of acupuncture. (more…)

Breech presentation (opposite direction of the normal position of the fetus) is common in the mid-trimester of pregnancy, with an incidence of 3% to 4% by full term. Women with breech presentation have problems delivering vaginally.

Researchers from Beijing University, in China and the University of Troms, in Norway reviewed the literature on moxibustion, acupuncture, and other acupoint stimulations to correct breech presentation. (more…)

The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a story about a pilgrimage to China to learn about tuina (aka Tui Na).

Here’s what we know about tuina and research that’s been published in 2008. (more…)

Prof. Ernst and colleagues think more rigorous research is warranted. (more…)

Legislation has been submitted in Ontario, Canada to regulate acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. This is the culmination of an ongoing process that started in Canada in 1994. The proposed legislation would create a self-governing regulatory college, and restrict the practice of acupuncture to members of the profession who would be able to use title, doctor.

In North America, it’s the latest event in the growth of acupuncture, which was virtually unknown here until 1972 when China opened its doors to the West.

(more…)