F E AT U R E
them and open their channels back up.” Ben also practises iridology, a diagnostic tool used to assess health by analysing the fibre structure and colour of the iris of the eye. Iridology can help to pinpoint organ strengths and weaknesses, and can also indicate the overall state of the horse’s constitution. “I became interested in the practice when, some years ago, a herbalist friend who was also an iridologist demonstrated it to me. So I’ve long had a fascination with it, and eventually studied it formally. I find that iridology helps give me confirmation as to exactly what and where the horse’s health problems are,” he says. The energy meridians and the acupuncture points used to stimulate them.
So, if helping a horse to regain their health, or maintain their general wellbeing is the goal, then the modality of
While acupuncture needles are usually
to start, once the charcoal catches
Ben’s first option, as horses improve
and begins to glow, they’re really hot.
they tend to become more sensitive,
So I find the point where the horse is
to the point where needles have to
sore and hold the moxa a couple of
be replaced by a moxa stick. Ben’s
centimetres above the skin and let the
preference is for charcoal and mugwort
heat spread through the area. Some
You can call Ben on 0429 369 530 to
sticks. “Mugwort is a heating herb,” he
horses get very stiff and sore and are
discuss your horse’s health issues and
explains, “and while the stick is hard
cold internally, so this is the way I warm
make an appointment.
acupuncture shouldn’t be overlooked. It may not be the first option that springs to mind, but it certainly shouldn’t be the last.
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