Moxibustion is a traditional East Asian healing technique that is deeply rooted in Chinese medicine, involving the burning of dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near specific acupuncture points on the body. Unlike many Western medical treatments, this practice is based on the holistic principle of stimulating the body’s energy flow, or “qi,” by applying heat to particular meridian points. The mugwort is typically compressed into a stick or cone and either held close to the skin without touching it or placed directly on an acupuncture point, creating a warming sensation that practitioners believe helps balance the body’s energy, improve circulation, and stimulate healing.

The therapeutic applications of moxibustion are remarkably diverse, with practitioners using the technique to address a wide range of health conditions including chronic pain, digestive disorders, gynecological issues, and immune system support. There are two primary methods of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, small amounts of mugwort are placed directly on the skin and burned, creating a intense, localized heat; indirect moxibustion, which is more commonly practiced, involves holding a burning moxa stick near the skin, allowing the warmth to penetrate without risking burns. While scientific research is still exploring the full extent of moxibustion’s effectiveness, many patients report significant improvements in symptoms and an overall sense of enhanced well-being after receiving this ancient therapeutic treatment.