A 46 year-old male patient presented in our clinic for the swelling and distention of left jaw, which occurred the previous day, and complained of suffering from parotid duct stones for 10 years, with his left lower jaw swelling 1 to 2 times per year, and the duration of attack was more than 2 weeks every time. He tried acupuncture once with insignificant therapeutic effect.

Since his previous acupuncture did not work, we used moxibustion on ginger at the highest point of swelling and distention (one inch to the earlobe) to warm and unblock meridians and collaterals.

Methods: We used collateral-activating oil topically, sliced ginger into 3mm thick piece, and inserted a needle into the ginger to get some holes. We then put the ginger on the selected points and applied moxibustion with wheat-grain size moxa cones. When the patient had a burning sensation, we removed the moxa cones. All the above procedures were repeated twice.

After the treatment with 3 moxa cones, he reported less swelling and distention. He made an appointment of further consultation for the second treatment two days later.

(From Dr Zhenhu Chen)