Moxibustion is a warming technique in which gentle heat is applied to acupuncture points or sensitive areas of the body. The heat comes from moxa, made from dried mugwort, a herb prepared for this purpose in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, moxibustion warms and stimulates the circulation of blood and Qi, removes obstruction in the body’s channels and dispels cold and damp. It is traditionally used to strengthen digestion, circulation and overall vitality, and is often paired with acupuncture in the same session so the two work on the same pattern together.
The sensation is warming rather than hot, and the moxa never touches your skin directly. Ahil has also written a guide to using moxa at home in Patient Resources.
Ahil uses moxibustion where a presentation calls for warmth. The moxa is prepared and held or rested near the point, never touching the skin, and each area is warmed in turn until it softens and relaxes.
Moxibustion is often chosen for children, older patients and anyone wary of needle stimulation.
Moxibustion is traditionally chosen for concerns that Chinese medicine associates with cold and deficiency, such as sluggish digestion, low energy and poor circulation, and it may assist in the management of these concerns. It is also the treatment Ahil most often recommends to patients who are sensitive to needle stimulation.
Moxibustion usually sits within your normal appointment. Ahil warms each point in turn, monitoring your comfort closely; most patients describe the warmth as quietly relaxing, and many find it the gentlest part of their treatment.
Further reading: What does moxibustion smell like?, Why Chinese medicine warms the body and Cupping, gua sha or moxibustion compared.
Moxibustion is a warming technique where the application of heat is used to warm acupuncture points or sensitive locations on the body. From a Chinese medicine point of view it warms and stimulates blood and Qi circulation, removes obstructions in the body’s channels and eliminates cold and damp.
Moxibustion feels warming and comforting. It is often used for individuals who are sensitive to needle stimulation, as well as children and older patients.
It is traditionally used to strengthen digestion, support circulation and build overall vitality, and may assist in the management of conditions associated with cold and deficiency in Chinese medicine terms.
Moxibustion is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner, but occasionally the heat can cause redness or, rarely, a burn. The moxa does not touch your skin, the warmth is monitored closely throughout, and anything relevant to your situation is discussed at your first visit.
Yes. Moxibustion is frequently used within the same session as acupuncture, as part of one coordinated treatment plan.
Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and naturopathy with Ahil Ganesan in Alexandria, Sydney. Registered practitioner, health fund rebates claimable on eligible services.
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