Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves burning mugwort (a Chinese herb) near the skin to produce warmth, relieve pain and/or stimulate acupuncture points.

Moxa, as it is more frequently called, is a mild therapy that warms the affected area, but does not burn the skin. Typically, the practitioner uses a moxa stick to gently warm an area of the body by holding it a few inches away from the skin. Moxa is often combined with acupuncture, with moxa near or on the acupuncture needle, but may also be used in larger areas such as the lower abdomen, knee or shoulder.

It is gentle and effective, especially for conditions that are worse with cold or damp weather. Moxa may also be used to strengthen the body or move qi, depending on where it is used.

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