OBJECTIVETo measure the threshold of feeling temperature, comfortable temperature and tolerant temperature to ginger-partition moxibustion and suspended moxibustion at different acupoints of healthy persons, and to instruct the clinical practice of moxibustion better.

METHODSForty-three healthy students were divided into a ginger-partition moxibustion group (22 cases) and a suspended moxibustion group (21 cases) randomly. Shenshu (BL 23), Zhongwan (CV 12), Zusanli (ST 36) and Waiguan (TE 5) were used in both groups. The feeling temperature, comfortable temperature and tolerant temperature in each group were measured by thermometer. SPSS 18.0 was used to analyze the data.

RESULTSThe feeling temperature, comfortable temperature and tolerant temperature rose in proper order and the difference was significant (all P < 0.05). The tolerant temperature of suspended moxibustion group ((40.69 +/- 1.85) degrees C) was lower than that of ginger-partition moxibustion group ((42.44 +/- 3.90) degrees C) (P < 0.05). The feeling temperature of ginger-partition moxibustion at Shengshu (BL 23) was 4-5 degrees C lower than that at other acupoints.

CONCLUSIONThe heat sensations of different acupoints to ginger partition moxibustion and suspended moxibustion are different at different stages. The threshold of heat sensation of ginger-partition moxibustion is higher than that of suspended moxibustion. There is a best temperature zone for moxibustion which is a little higher than normal temperature between comfortable temperature and tolerant temperature. To improve effect, doctors should try to prolong the effective time of this zone in clinic. As the limiting temperature of patients, tolerant temperature can provide reference for the use of moxibustion safely in clinic.