Moxa

Moxa is another word for dried mugwort herb (artemisia vulgaris). Mugwort is an herb that has been used worldwide for thousands of years due to its beneficial, warming effects. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, moxibustion is used during acupuncture treatments. The acupuncture points are heated with moxa to add energy and warmth to those points. Energy starts flowing again. The acupuncturist may choose this if there is pain due to stagnation or excessive cold.

Moxibustion
During moxibustion, the moxa is always heated. It goes without saying that the acupuncturist handles it carefully. Moxa is applied with attention to what you are experiencing. There are different ways in which moxa can be used.

The Moxa stick
A moxa stick is a thick cigar that smolders while being moved back and forth or towards a point above the skin. Of course, the cigar does not touch the skin. Women with a baby in breech position may be familiar with the moxa stick. Heating the outer corner of the nails of both little toes daily with moxa can encourage the baby to turn. Always consult a well-trained acupuncturist and discuss with your midwife or doctor.

Moxa on the needle
This is a method where a piece of a thin moxa cigar is slid over the acupuncture needle and lit. The heat is brought deep into the skin or muscle through the needle. Here too, the moxa does not touch the skin.

Moxa pellet
Sometimes a small moxa pellet is placed directly on the skin and lit. As soon as you start feeling the warmth, the acupuncturist quickly removes the pellet.

Moxa lamp
For those who do not want the smoke from the smoldering herb, a moxa lamp can be used. It can deeply heat a whole area.