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Moxa
The burning of specific Chinese Herbs that increases the healing ability - reduces inflammation and strengthens the immunity naturally.
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What Is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion — commonly called "moxa" — is a Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia argyi), a medicinal herb, near or on specific acupuncture points on the body. The heat generated penetrates deeply into the tissue, warming the meridians, tonifying Qi, and stimulating the body's natural healing processes in a way that needles alone cannot always achieve.
Moxa has been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,500 years and is considered one of the foundational pillars of TCM alongside acupuncture. In fact, the Chinese word for acupuncture — "zhēn jiǔ" — literally translates to "needles and moxa," reflecting just how inseparable the two therapies have historically been.
How Does Moxibustion Work?
During a moxibustion session, your provider burns dried mugwort in one of several forms — either as a moxa stick held just above the skin, as small cones placed directly on acupuncture points, or attached to the end of an acupuncture needle to combine both therapies simultaneously. The smoldering herb produces a gentle, radiant heat that travels through the skin and into the deeper layers of tissue and meridians beneath.
From a TCM perspective, moxa works by tonifying Yang energy — the warm, active, transformative force in the body. When Yang is deficient, the body becomes cold, sluggish, and prone to stagnation and pain. The heat of moxa restores warmth and movement to areas where Qi and blood have become blocked or depleted, encouraging the body back into a state of balance and vitality.
From a biomedical perspective, the heat from moxibustion increases local circulation, stimulates immune activity, and promotes the release of red and white blood cells — effects that have been studied extensively in relation to conditions ranging from breech pregnancy to chemotherapy recovery.
Moxibustion works on a deeply restorative level, addressing not just symptoms but the underlying energetic deficiencies that allow those symptoms to persist.
How Often Should You Come In for Moxibustion?
Moxibustion frequency depends on your constitution, your condition, and how depleted your body's Yang energy is to begin with.
For acute conditions — sudden cold exposure, menstrual cramps, or digestive upset — 1–2 targeted sessions can provide fast, effective relief.
For chronic deficiency conditions — fatigue, low immunity, fertility support, or long-standing cold-type pain — moxa is most effective when used consistently over several weeks, often once or twice a week, to gradually rebuild the body's warmth and vitality. Many patients continue with monthly maintenance sessions once their primary condition has stabilized.
Because moxibustion is most powerful when combined with acupuncture, Dr. Yang will incorporate moxa into your overall treatment plan where appropriate, ensuring you receive the most effective and personalized care possible.
FAQ
FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions.
What does moxibustion feel like?
Most patients describe moxibustion as deeply pleasant — a penetrating warmth that spreads from the treated area throughout the body, often producing a profound sense of relaxation and calm. Unlike direct heat applied to the surface, moxa heat feels as though it travels inward, which many patients find uniquely soothing. It is not uncomfortable, and your provider will always monitor the heat level carefully to ensure your comfort.
Does moxibustion smell?
Yes — burning mugwort has a distinct, earthy, herb-like aroma that some patients love and others find strong. Our treatment space is well ventilated to keep the environment comfortable. If you have respiratory sensitivities or smoke allergies, please let us know when you book so we can discuss options and accommodate you appropriately.
Is moxibustion safe during pregnancy?
Moxibustion has a long, well-documented history of use during pregnancy — particularly for turning breech babies in the third trimester, which is perhaps its most researched modern application. That said, not all forms of moxa are appropriate at all stages of pregnancy, and certain acupuncture points are contraindicated. Always inform Dr. Annie if you are pregnant so your treatment can be adapted safely and appropriately for you and your baby.
Can moxibustion be done at home?
Moxa sticks are available for home use and Dr. Yang may recommend a home moxa protocol to support your in-clinic treatments — particularly for patients managing chronic deficiency conditions or fertility goals. However, it is important to learn proper technique and point location from your provider before attempting it at home, as incorrect application can cause burns or inadvertently stimulate contraindicated points.
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We believe healing should be accessible to everyone. That's why we're proud to accept a variety of insurance plans, making it easier for you to prioritize your health and well-being without the added stress of out-of-pocket costs.
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