Moxa, also known as moxibustion, is a traditional East Asian therapy closely associated with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves burning mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), a small, spongy herb, near specific acupuncture points on the body. The practice is believed to stimulate the flow of qi (life energy), dispel cold and dampness, and promote healing.
Types of Moxibustion
Indirect Moxibustion
- Moxa is burned near the skin without direct contact.
- Often combined with acupuncture by placing moxa on the handle of acupuncture needles or placing a pre-rolled moxa cone on the acu point.
Direct Moxibustion
- Small cones of moxa are placed directly on the skin and burned.
- The practitioner monitors it to prevent burns.
Moxa Sticks
- Rolled moxa sticks are lit and held near the body
Benefits:
- Improves blood circulation
- Warms meridian points and dispels cold
- Treats conditions like arthritis, digestive disorders, and menstrual cramps
- Enhances immune system function
- Often used to correct breech presentation in pregnancy
