Moxibustion is a time-honored healing technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the burning of mugwort (also known as Artemisia vulgaris or ai ye in Chinese) to promote healing, stimulate circulation, and restore balance in the body. Practiced throughout Asia for thousands of years, moxibustion is commonly used to strengthen the blood, move qi (vital energy), and support overall health and wellness.

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How Does Moxibustion Work?

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Moxibustion works by applying therapeutic heat to specific acupuncture points, either directly on the skin or indirectly through various methods. The warmth penetrates deeply into the tissue, helping to warm the meridians, expel cold, and invigorate the flow of qi and blood.

There are two primary forms of moxibustion: direct and indirect.

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1. Direct Moxibustion

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In this method, a small cone of moxa is placed on the skin over an acupuncture point and lit. There are two subtypes:

• Scarring Moxibustion: The moxa burns completely on the skin, which can lead to blistering and long-term scarring.

  Note: At Family Acucare Acupuncture, we do not use scarring moxibustion.

• Non-Scarring Moxibustion: The moxa is removed before it burns the skin. Patients feel a pleasant, deep warming sensation without pain or blistering..

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2. Indirect Moxibustion (Most Commonly Used Today)

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This modern, gentle approach involves burning a moxa stick—which resembles a cigar—near the skin without direct contact. The warming effect stimulates the area and promotes healing with minimal risk of burns or discomfort.

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Another popular technique combines acupuncture and moxibustion. In this method, an acupuncture needle is inserted into a selected point, and a small amount of moxa is attached to the top of the needle and ignited. This channels warmth directly through the needle into the body, enhancing the effects of both treatments.

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What Conditions Can Moxibustion Help With?

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In TCM, moxibustion is often recommended for individuals with cold, stagnant, or deficient conditions. By warming the meridians and enhancing circulation, moxibustion helps relieve a variety of health concerns, including:

• Chronic fatigue and weakness

• Menstrual cramps and irregular cycles

• Digestive issues

• Joint and muscle pain

• Infertility or reproductive health concerns

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Moxibustion and Breech Pregnancy

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Moxibustion has gained attention in Western medicine for its potential to turn breech babies in late pregnancy. A 1998 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that up to 75% of women who received moxibustion at a specific acupuncture point (Bladder 67) experienced a successful rotation of the fetus into a head-down position.

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Additional research has shown that moxibustion may also:

• Increase fetal movement

• Support a smoother labor process

• Help alleviate menstrual discomfort when combined with acupuncture

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Why Mugwort (Ai Ye)?

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Mugwort has been valued for centuries in both Chinese and Western herbal medicine. It is known as an emmenagogue, a substance that promotes blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus. This makes it particularly effective for:

• Regulating menstruation

• Easing menstrual pain

• Supporting reproductive health

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Its warming, penetrating quality is key to moxibustion’s therapeutic benefits.

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Experience the Healing Warmth of Moxibustion

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At Family Acucare Acupuncture, we use safe, non-scarring forms of moxibustion to support your unique health needs. Whether you're managing chronic pain, addressing fertility concerns, or preparing for childbirth, moxibustion can be a valuable part of your treatment plan.

Curious if moxibustion is right for you? Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation.