Moxibustion
Ancient wisdom. Modern evidence.
Moxibustion is the therapeutic application of heat from burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) at or near acupuncture points. Used alongside acupuncture for thousands of years, moxa warms the channels and blood, strengthens the immune system, and addresses conditions characterized by cold, deficiency, and stagnation. Modern research has demonstrated that moxibustion increases white blood cell counts, elevates natural killer cell activity, and improves circulation — providing a physiological basis for its traditional immune-strengthening applications.
How it works
Moxa is applied in various forms — direct on the skin (with a barrier), on the handle of an inserted acupuncture needle (warming needle moxa), or indirectly using moxa sticks held near the skin. The warmth penetrates deeply, warming the joint and channel beneath. The technique is selected based on the clinical presentation and the points being treated. Moxa has a distinctive herbal scent and produces a deeply relaxing, penetrating warmth.
Who is it for?
Cold sensitivity and poor circulation; fatigue and deficiency patterns; digestive weakness; immune deficiency; menstrual cramps (particularly cold-type dysmenorrhea); joint pain worsened by cold; breech presentation in late pregnancy (SP6/ST36 moxa — discuss with provider); patients who feel better with warmth applied to painful areas.
Who is it not for?
Heat sensitivity or fever; yin deficiency with heat signs; certain pregnancy situations (discuss with provider); patients sensitive to smoke (smokeless moxa options available).
Session Time
15–30 min (as part of acupuncture visit)
Down Time
None
Results?
Often during and immediately after session
Peak Results
With regular sessions as part of acupuncture protocol
How long does it last?
Cumulative with ongoing treatment
How many sessions?
As part of acupuncture sessions — frequency matches those visits
Does moxibustion hurt?
No — properly applied moxibustion produces a deeply pleasant, penetrating warmth. If it becomes too hot, we adjust immediately. Smokeless moxa options are available for patients sensitive to the herbal smoke.
What does it smell like?
Moxa has a distinctive herbal, slightly camphor-like scent that many patients find pleasant. Our treatment rooms are ventilated. We also offer smokeless moxa for patients who prefer no scent.
Who benefits most from moxibustion?
Patients who feel cold easily, whose pain is better with heat, who have low energy and digestive weakness, or who have deficiency-pattern conditions in TCM respond best. Your acupuncturist will assess whether moxa is appropriate for your pattern at your initial visit.