Abstract
The purpose of this study is to observe the changes in peripheral blood flow in those subjects who perspired during and/or after stimulation by moxibustion. Observations were made on a total of ten subjects consisting of six males and four females with a mean age of 28. 1 years. The subjects were divided into two groups: subjects who perspired and those who did not. Stimulation was applied to the Ashi-sanri (St. 36 spot) of the right leg, and blood flow was measured with a Laser-Doppler blood flow meter attached near the stimulation point on the proximal side. Data were processed using statistical analysis method. Significant differences in the mean blood flow values were noted between the two groups (perspiring and non-perspiring). The non-perspiring group recorded lower values of peripheral blood flow than the perspiring group. Chi square testing of statistical analysis demonstrated a trend for subjects with more negative attitudes toward moxibustion treatment to perspire more during and/or after stimulation by moxibustion than those with a positive attitude (p<0.006). These results suggest that the sympathetic nervous system may be activated more strongly by application of moxibustion in those with negative attitudes toward moxibustion.
