Moxibustion, or moxa, is the burning of dried mugwort over specific acu-points on the body in order to warm the localized tissue and promote circulation of qi and blood. Moxibustion can be administered by indirectly hovering a “moxa pole” or “stick moxa” over the area, or by placing a moxa cone with an adhesive barrier on the skin. Other techniques involve placing ginger or salt over a large area and then burning dried moxa on top of the barrier.

Moxibustion has a warming, moving, drying and nourishing quality. Moxa is used to quicken qi and blood in conditions where circulation is inhibited. Moxa is also used in conditions where water or moisture is accumulating; edema or swelling are two examples of water accumulation. If pain condition is associated with trapped “cold”, moxa can be applied to warm the tissue and improve mobility and function.

Moxibustion has been used for centuries because of its safety and efficacy. Moxibustion can be an effective therapy to use during pregnancy to turn a breech baby into the correct presentation. Moxibustion can also be used for digestive issues such as diarrhea and loose stools. Moxibustion is safe for children, providing a therapeutic alternative when acupuncture might be too scary.