Moxibustion

Moxibustion, or moxa, is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy in which dried mugwort (Artemisia argyi) is burned near or on specific acupuncture points to provide controlled therapeutic warmth and stimulation.
 

Moxibustion has traditionally been used to warm the channels, support Yang and Qi, dispel Cold and encourage circulation. From a Chinese medicine perspective, it can be particularly useful when symptoms are associated with Cold, weakness, deficiency or impaired circulation.
 

Different forms of moxibustion can be used depending on the individual. These include indirect moxa held above the skin, moxa used alongside acupuncture, and more specialised techniques using very small amounts of moxa directly over selected points.
 

Moxibustion has also become the subject of increasing scientific research. Clinical studies have investigated its use across a range of conditions, with encouraging findings in several areas, although the strength and quality of the evidence differs between applications.
 

Moxibustion is not appropriate for everyone and requires careful technique, particularly because of the heat and smoke involved. Treatment is adapted according to the individual’s presentation and clinical circumstances.