Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials called "moxa" are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. The intention is to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body and dispel certain pathogenic influences.

Moxa is usually made from the dried leafy material of Chinese mugwort (Artemesia argyi or A.vlugaris).

Pain due to injury or arthritis, especially in "cold" patterns where the pain naturally feels better with the application of heat.

Moxa is also frequently used for digestive problems and irregular elimination, as well as in gynecological and obstetrical conditions, including the presentation of the breech baby during pregnancy.

Moxibustion can also be used preventively against colds and flu.

Practitioners often deal with both acupuncture and moxibustion during the same clinical session, depending on the diagnosis and treatment strategy.