Moxibustion

Moxibustion is the burning of cones made from the wool of the Mugwort plant on acupuncture points, or on broad areas of the body to achieve specific healing effects. In many cases, especially of deficiency it acts similarly to the acupuncture needle to stimulate the point.

The Moxa leaf is bitter and acrid, producing warmth when used in small amounts and strong heat when used in large amounts. Moxa is Yang in nature and is therefore used mainly to restore deficient Yang conditions. Moxa opens channels, regulates Qi and blood flow in the body, and expels cold and dampness.

The Moxa plant, in Chinese called Ai Ye is a member of the Artemesia family, and flourishes throughout China. The fresh leaves are picked in the spring and dried in the sun. The dried leaves are then ground into a fine powder or moxa wool.

Indirect Moxa
With Indirect Moxa something is placed between the burning Moxa and the skin. This reduces any risk of infection and is the method preferred by modern practitioners.

Moxa Sticks
The Moxa stick or roll was developed in the Ming Dynasty as a convenient, less time consuming and easily controlled method of applying Moxa. The Moxa wool is wrapped tightly in paper like a cigar. Sometimes the powder of other herbals is mixed in.

The Moxa stick is lit at one end and held about 1 inch from the skin, the distance varying with the tolerance of the patient and the degree of stimulation required.