Moxibustion (sometimes referred to as “moxa”) is a Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort, (also known as “Ai Ye”), to facilitate healing. Moxibustion has been used in China for thousands of years. The purpose of moxibustion is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of energy, and maintain general health and wellness.
Moxibustion is applied in a number of different ways, including burning the herb on needles that are inserted in the body.
Other ways of application are to use a moxa stick to indirectly apply heat to acupuncture points, or burning the herb on a medium such as fresh ginger or garlic, which rests on the skin.
Acupuncturists frequently use moxibustion for people who have a cold or stagnant condition. This technique expels cold and warms the meridians, leading to a smoother flow of blood and energy.
