Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a method of burning herbs on or above the skin, usually at specific acupuncture points.  The heat warms the energy and blood of the body and is useful in the tx of disease and maintenance of health.  Quite often pain and disease result from a blockage or improper flow of energy and blood and moxibustion stimulates with heat to alleviate the original blockage and correct the flow.  Moxibustion is wonderful for sprains, traumas and injuries.  In addition, it stimulates and supports the immunity of the body, and eliminates cold and damp, thus promoting normal fx of the organs.

Although it can be made from a variety of herbs, moxa (short for moxibustion) is generally made from the mugwort plant (Artemesia vulgaris).  This herb, while its heat is mild, burns easily and penetrates deeply beneath the skin into the body.  It comes in a variety of forms, either as the loose wool, in cones or as sticks, often called moxa cigars.