An Investigation of Moxibustion Treatment for Abscesses in the Song Dynasty: Focusing on the “Jiu Ai Tu”

Abstract

Abstract. Jiu Ai Tu (The Moxa Treatment) from the Song dynasty is the earliest surviving painting that focuses on the subject of acupuncture and moxibustion. This paper takes the medical activities depicted in the artwork as its research object and systematically analyzes the external treatment methods for abscesses during the Song dynasty reflected in Jiu Ai Tu. By examining the understanding of abscesses during that period, the paper explores the level of development in external medicine techniques. By analyzing the medical awareness and behaviors of patients when facing such severe illnesses, it aims to explore the societal cognition and experiences regarding health and disease. The paper attempts to present the folk medical ecology of the Song dynasty represented by Jiu Ai Tu.