The following provides a general programme of how we are carrying out this investigation:-

(Current status indicators are printed in blue)

Preliminary literature research

- Analysing the surviving moxibustion literature of traditional oriental medicine from the last two thousand years. (completed)

- Resourcing and analysing the key scientific papers on treatment of TB with moxa from Japan (in Japanese). (complete)

- Resourcing and analysing the key scientific papers on the immunological and histological effects of moxa (in Japanese). (completed)

 - Collating the above and publishing accordingly. (Two part paper published by the European Journal of Oriental Medicine)

Conducting our own primary research

 - On temperatures at base of moxa cones of different sizes and with different types of moxa. (Completed - paper in preparation for publication)

– On potential improvements in CD4 count in long term HIV/AIDS patients in the UK currently on ARV medication with the use of daily direct moxa.  (Deferred subject to further assistance from Freshwinds charity which we had hoped to have collaborated with on this)

– on potential simple blood changes in healthy individuals. (Deferred - but hoped to be completed this year)

Establishing collaborative partnerships including training healthworkers

 - A fact finding feasibility study establishing how African health workers and patients receive the idea of moxa treatment . (Trip completed to Lyantonde, Uganda. December 2009)

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- Developing a collaborative partnership with the Kiswa and Kisenyi Health Centres in Kampala and training selected health workers in the moxa protocol, who in turn will train TB patients' cares in a daily regime.(Trip completed March 2010)

Allen Magezi & Sister Magdalene Ichumar at Kiswa

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- Developing further similar collaborative partnerships (up to five) as opportunities arise.

(Invited to collaborate in a study in Nyanga Township Capetown. The initaitive will start immediately funds permit)

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- Collaboratively refining appropriate treatment protocols in each facility to suit local challenges.

 - Agreeing simple and flexible feedback systems for the purpose of later general data analysis from each facility and maintaining data retrieval at monthly intervals.


Supplying raw materials and ongoing support (ongoing with the clinics in Kampala)

- Maintaining moxa supplies for the duration of the partnerships

- Providing technical and physical advice and support whenever necessary

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 - Acting as network hub to each facility to maximise potential efficacies, further refine techniques and to maximise safety issues.

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Developing a research project with an African University to confirm validity of any reported treatment benefits from the facilities (Currently developing relationship with the University of the Western Cape, Capetown, South Africa)

 

Finally -

Subject to overall analysis and assessment of results, to publicise the results in any appropriate media in order to facilitate wider implementation of moxa treatment for TB in the developing world.