The history of Moxibustion

Moxibustion (灸, jiǔ) is a traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy that involves burning the dried leaves of the mugwort plant (Artemisia argyi or Artemisia vulgaris) to stimulate healing. Moxa is available in smoke and smoke less options. Some practitioners might also prefer to use moxa wool.

The practice has a history dating back thousands of years and is often used alongside acupuncture. Its origins can be traced to ancient texts, such as:

1. The Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic): Written over 2,000 years ago, this foundational TCM text mentions moxibustion as a treatment to warm meridians and dispel cold.

2. The Zhou Li (Rites of Zhou): Describes the use of fire-based therapies, including the herb moxa, in early Chinese healing rituals.

3. The Bian Que Scrolls: Named after a legendary Chinese physician, these works highlight moxa’s application for various illnesses.

Moxibustion spread across Asia (Japan, Korea, Vietnam) and later to the West, becoming a recognised complementary therapy in integrative medicine. Moxibustion is said to reduce inflammation, stimulate blood flow and promote the body’s natural healing patterns.

How does Moxibustion do this ?

In TCM, moxibustion works by:

• Warming meridians: Stimulating the flow of Qi and blood to resolve stagnation.

• Dispelling cold and dampness: Especially effective for conditions exacerbated by cold.

• Strengthening Yang energy: To restore balance and vitality, particularly in Yang-deficient individuals.

Moxibustion is not applied in patterns of heat and is contraindicated in pregnancy until 34 -36 weeks. 

Methods of Moxibustion

1. Direct Moxibustion:

• Small cones of moxa are placed directly on the skin or a medium (like ginger or salt). As in the featured image above. Ginger and moxa are often used for digestive disorders in Ren 8 (the navel area).

• The moxa is burned until heat is felt but before discomfort occurs.

• This technique is more intensive and is often used for chronic conditions.

2. Indirect Moxibustion:

• A moxa stick is lit and held above acupuncture points or areas needing treatment.

• Safer for beginners and less intense than direct moxibustion.

Indirect moxa

3. Needle Moxibustion:

• Combines acupuncture and moxibustion by wrapping moxa wool on the handle of a needle, then lighting it to send heat into the acupuncture point. A small piece of the moxa stick can also bet cut off and applied to the handle of the needle. One must be very careful of the ash potentially being in such close proximity to the skin when using this technique.

4. Warm Moxa Devices:

• Modern devices hold burning moxa safely for easier application, often used in clinical settings.

Moxa devices to hold the moxa sticks (smokeless in this example)

When is it safe to us Moxibustion ?

Moxibustion is highly versatile and is used to address a variety of conditions, often with a focus on cold or deficient patterns in TCM. Moxibustion can be used in conjunction with acupuncture needles or as a stand alone treatment option.

1. Pain Relief

• Arthritis, joint pain, and muscle stiffness (e.g., knee pain, low back pain).

• Warming cold areas to relieve chronic pain.

2. Digestive Issues

• Supports conditions like diarrhoea, bloating, and poor digestion by strengthening the Spleen and Stomach.

3. Gynaecological Health

• Alleviates menstrual pain, regulates irregular periods, and supports fertility.

• Commonly used during pregnancy to turn a breech baby by stimulating Bladder 67 (Zhiyin), only at the appropriate trimester and time during pregnancy.

4. Immune System Support

• Boosts immune function and vitality, particularly for people with chronic fatigue or frequent colds.

5. Respiratory Conditions

• Beneficial for asthma, bronchitis, or chronic cough, often targeting Lung 1 (Zhongfu) or Ren 17 (Shanzhong).

Research suggests that moxibustion can also be useful in the treatment of long Covid symptoms.

6. Circulation and Energy

• Improves circulation and warms cold extremities.

• Stimulates Yang energy to address fatigue or low energy levels. Especially at points such as St 36. (Zusanli)

7. Preventative Therapy

• In some traditions, moxa is used regularly at points like Stomach 36 (Zusanli) to maintain health and longevity.

Precautions

• Avoid moxibustion on inflamed, red, or irritated skin.

• Not recommended for conditions with heat symptoms (e.g. fever, hot flashes).

• Ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling smoke.

• Always use moxa carefully to prevent burns.

If you are based in South Africa, Moxibustion is available for purchase from Chinaherb