Moxa (Moxibustion): Technique and Effects

Moxa is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves the burning of medicinal plants to produce heat and smoke, which are applied to the body for therapeutic effects.

Mechanism of Action

Moxa works in two primary ways:

Direct Heat:

• The heat soothes and stimulates circulation.

• The heat moves the blood and reduces pain.

• It is often used to stimulate the needles (during an acupuncture session) with heat.

Medicinal Smoke:

• Moxa uses medicinal plants (most commonly mugwort) rolled to burn.

• The smoke carries the therapeutic effects of the herbs to:

• Stimulate circulation.

• Reduce pain.

• Nourish the blood.

Moxibustion is used to treat and prevent diseases by warming the body, regulating Qi (energy) and blood, and expelling cold and dampness.