Moxibustion, often called moxa therapy, is a traditional Chinese healing practice that uses dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). The herb is shaped into a stick or cone, gently burned, and held near specific acupuncture points along the body’s meridians. The warmth from the burning moxa stimulates these points, helping to improve the flow of Qi (vital energy) and drive out harmful influences.
This therapy is not only used for healing but also as a preventive practice. By warming the body, supporting detoxification, and strengthening the organs and immune system, moxibustion can promote overall well-being, enhance vitality, and even support healthy aging.
There are two types of Moxibustion
The original form of the Moxibustion is the direct Moxibustion. A moxa cone is placed on the acupuncture point. The Acupuncturist will light the cone and make it burn slowly till your skin begins to turn red. Once you feel the heat, the Acupuncturist will remove it.
The Moxa is also placed on the acupuncture needle and ignited. Until it’s extinguished, it burns on the needle, and the heat travels through the needle.
Another form of Moxibustion is the indirect Moxibustion which is the most popular one. It is of lower risk of pain or burning because the Moxa doesn’t touch your skin. The Acupuncturist will hold the burning Moxa above the skin until it turns red. Otherwise, the Acupuncturist will set the burning Moxa over a layer of ginger, garlic, or salt placed on the skin.
Moxibustion is an excellent technique to reduce cold conditions. The moxa herb penetrates deep inside the body, promoting circulation and relaxing the tense areas.
Some of the benefits of Moxibustion are:
One of the most significant disadvantages of Moxibustion is keeping the burnt Moxa on the skin. Sometimes it may cause itching to the skin. It’s better to do indirect Moxibustion than direct because it leaves some space between the skin and the burning Moxa. Some of the Complications of Moxibustion are:
But you need not be worried when it’s performed by Experienced Acupuncturists at Dr. Bharath’s Acu Heal. He is currently treating patients for a wide range of conditions. As the best acupuncture practitioner with 15 years of experience and working with several doctors, Acupuncturist. A. Shaji Bharath can do the perfect Moxibustion to heal many ailments. As the top acupuncture doctor in Chennai, he has witnessed Moxibustion doing wonders for people.
Dial: +91 9884746916 or Visit: drbharathsacuheal.com for more details on Moxibustion by contacting the top acupuncture doctor in Chennai.
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Moxibustion is a traditional therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (moxa) near or on specific points of the body to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and restore balance.
No. The therapy creates a warming sensation that feels soothing and relaxing. The moxa is placed safely to avoid burning the skin.
It is often used for joint pain, arthritis, digestive issues, menstrual cramps, fatigue, cold hands and feet, and to boost immunity.
The gentle heat from moxa improves blood circulation, warms the body’s meridians, expels cold, reduces pain, and enhances the body’s natural healing response.
Yes, when performed by a trained practitioner. The therapy is carefully monitored to ensure comfort and safety.
Some people may notice mild redness, slight warmth on the skin, or a smoky aroma from the burning herb. These effects are temporary and harmless.
A typical session lasts 20–30 minutes, depending on the treatment area and condition.
The number of sessions varies. Some people feel benefits after 1–2 sessions, while chronic conditions may require regular treatments.
Most people can. However, those with high fever, certain skin conditions, or respiratory sensitivity to smoke should consult their doctor before treatment.
Rest well, keep the body warm, and drink water to support circulation and detoxification.
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