Moxibustion

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near or on specific acupuncture points to promote healing, improve circulation, and stimulate the body's natural energy (Qi). The practice is often used alongside acupuncture to enhance its therapeutic effects.

How Does Moxibustion Work?

The heat generated from burning mugwort penetrates the skin and stimulates circulation, warms the meridians, and enhances the flow of Qi (energy). It is believed to help dispel cold and dampness from the body, making it particularly beneficial for conditions caused by stagnation, cold, or deficiency in TCM.

Types of Moxibustion

There are two main types of moxibustion:
1. Direct Moxibustion

A small cone of moxa (dried mugwort) is placed directly on the skin at an acupuncture point and burned.
This method may leave a small burn or scar, though modern practices use a protective barrier.
It is rarely used in the West due to the risk of burns but is still practiced in traditional settings.

2. Indirect Moxibustion (most commonly used today)

Moxa stick method: A moxa stick (a cigar-shaped roll of mugwort) is lit and held near the skin without direct contact. The heat is applied to acupuncture points in circular or up-and-down motions.
Needle moxibustion: Moxa is placed on the end of an acupuncture needle, allowing heat to travel down into deeper layers of tissue.
Ginger/Garlic/Salt Moxibustion: A slice of ginger, garlic, or a layer of salt is placed on the skin as a protective barrier before applying moxa.

Health Benefits of Moxibustion

Moxibustion is known for its warming and tonifying effects, making it beneficial for various conditions:
1. Pain Relief – Effective for arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain, and chronic back pain.
2. Improved Digestion – Helps with bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain by enhancing digestion and expelling cold from the stomach.
3. Boosting Immunity – Stimulates the body's defenses, making it beneficial for those with weak immune systems.
4. Menstrual Health & Fertility – Commonly used for irregular periods, menstrual cramps, and fertility support by improving blood circulation in the uterus.
5. Turning Breech Babies – Moxibustion has been studied and used to turn breech-position babies to a normal head-down position during pregnancy, usually applied at acupuncture point BL-67 (Bladder 67) on the small toe.
6. Reducing Cold & Dampness in the Body – Beneficial for people who frequently feel cold or experience conditions worsened by cold weather, such as Raynaud’s syndrome.

Is Moxibustion Safe?

Moxibustion is generally safe when performed by a trained practitioner, but some precautions should be taken:
• Avoid overheating or burns—proper technique and distance from the skin are crucial.
• Not recommended for high fever, heat-sensitive conditions, or inflammation (e.g., skin infections or autoimmune flare-ups).
• Pregnant women should consult a doctor before undergoing moxibustion (except in supervised cases for breech babies).
• Proper ventilation is important, as burning mugwort produces smoke that may cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Moxibustion vs. Acupuncture

• Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate points, whereas moxibustion uses heat therapy.
• Moxibustion is often used in combination with acupuncture to enhance treatment effects.
• Those who are sensitive to needles may opt for moxibustion as an alternative therapy.

Moxibustion is a powerful ancient therapy with a wide range of health benefits, particularly for pain relief, digestion, menstrual health, and circulation. While widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is gaining recognition in modern integrative medicine for its therapeutic effects.