Medicinal Therapy

Moxibustion is a medicinal therapy that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years––often applied alongside the treatment of acupuncture––and involves the burning of a specific herb at specified acupuncture points. As a form of heat therapy, moxa is used in combination with acupuncture for the benefit of nourishing the vital essence of the body.

What is Moxa?

Moxa, is derived from the leaves of the Chinese herb mugwort (Artemesiae Vulgaris) which are dried and formed into several therapeutic forms. It is a comfortable and soothing sensation, and usually very relaxing.

Ancient Chinese medical texts have many stanzas touting the effect of moxa on longevity and vitality and many practitioners utilize it to nourish the overall health and well-being of their patients. Moxa is more than a simple warming of the body, burning Artemisia over specified points on the meridian system has the therapeutic effect of circulating the qi and blood to encourage the body’s innate capacity to heal, similar to acupuncture.

What Is Moxa Used For?

Moxa is used for a wide range of conditions including:

  • Pain
  • To stop uterine bleeding
  • Strengthening the immune system
  • Bronchial asthma
  • Arthritis
  • Diarrhea
  • Hormone regulation
  • PMS
  • Fertility
  • Prevent miscarriage
  • Postpartum Motherwarming
  • Soften scar tissue

In addition, moxa is often used due to its ability in turning breech babies, as noted in the famously cited Journal of American Medicine Association (JAMA)1998 article.