What Is Moxibustion and When Is It Used?

Understanding Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves the combustion of Artemisia argyi (mugwort) — either as a loose herb held near the skin on a moxa stick, or formed into small cones placed on acupuncture needles or on a salt or ginger pad on the skin. The gentle, penetrating heat produced is different from ordinary heat — it is said in TCM to specifically activate Yang energy and move stagnant Qi and Blood.

Modern research has found that moxa produces far-infrared radiation (3–25 microns) which penetrates the skin more deeply than ordinary heat, and releases therapeutic volatile oils during combustion. These provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects that complement the thermal stimulation.

Common Uses for Moxibustion

Moxibustion is particularly indicated for Cold-pattern conditions — those that are worse in cold weather, relieved by warmth, and associated with a pale tongue and slow pulse.

Clinical applications include: breech presentation (moxa on BL67 at the little toe — supported by multiple RCTs), menstrual pain with cold-type presentation, knee and hip osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (moxa on ST36 and Ren-4), immune support, and general Yang deficiency conditions including chronic fatigue, hypothyroidism, and low fertility associated with 'cold uterus.'