title: Effect of zusanli (ST 36) moxibustion on rat mesenteric microvascular system.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To investigate the effect of moxibustion on Zusanli (ST 36) on visceral-mesenteric vessels by observing circulation.
  
  
  METHODS
  Forty-five SD rats were randomly assigned to a moxibustion, electroacupuncture (EA), and blank group. In the moxibustion group, heat stimulation of moxibustion to the Zusanli (ST 36) area of normal rats was performed for 15 min. In the EA group, needles were inserted into the Zusanli (ST 36) and lateral point [0.5 cm lateral from Zusanli (ST 36)] for 15 min. The blank group was not given any treatment. We continuously monitored mesenteric microvascular changes with in vivo microscopic video.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Moxibustion and EA to Zusanli (ST 36) increase the diameter of mesenteric arterioles and venules (P < 0.05). There were no obvious changes in the blank group. Fine arterial diameter peaked at 12 min in the moxibustion group, while it peaked at 15 min in the EA group.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The stimulation of moxibustion and acupuncture to Zusanli (ST 36) has immediate effects on expanding the microvasculature. This dilation may be the mechanism of the gastrointestinal effect of Zusanli (ST 36).
authors.forename: Hongqing
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Xia
authors.forename: Ling
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Guan
authors.forename: Yiling
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Yang
mesh_terms: D015669:Acupuncture Points; D000818:Animals; D015671:Electroacupuncture; D008297:Male; D008833:Microcirculation; D009071:Moxibustion; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley