Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves the burning of a dried herb

called moxa (Artemisia vulgaris) on or near specific points of the body. It is often used in
conjunction with acupuncture and is believed to stimulate the flow of vital energy or "qi"
(pronounced "chee") within the body.

The term "moxibustion" is derived from the Japanese words "mogusa" (meaning mugwort, the
herb used in the therapy) and "burning." The practice of moxibustion has been an integral part of
traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and continues to be widely used today.

Moxa is typically prepared by drying and grinding the leaves of the mugwort plant. It can be
formed into various shapes, such as cones, sticks, or loose powder. During a moxibustion session,
a practitioner may place a small amount of moxa directly on the skin, usually on specific
acupuncture points, or indirectly by holding it over the skin without direct contact. The moxa is
then ignited and burned slowly, generating heat and producing a unique aromatic odor.

The heat generated by moxibustion is believed to penetrate the body, warming the meridians and
promoting the smooth flow of qi and blood. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory,
when qi and blood are in balance and flowing freely, health and well-being are maintained.
Moxibustion is commonly used to address conditions related to cold and stagnant qi, such as
pain, poor circulation, and digestive disorders.

There are two primary forms of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, a small
cone or cylinder of moxa is placed directly on the skin and burned until the person feels a gentle
warmth or heat sensation. The moxa is then removed before it reaches the point of discomfort or
pain. Direct moxibustion is typically used for specific conditions or points that require targeted
stimulation.

Indirect moxibustion involves the use of a moxa stick or a moxa cone held above the skin,
without direct contact. The practitioner hovers the moxa over the chosen acupuncture points until
the area becomes warm and reddened. The heat is believed to penetrate deeper into the body,
providing a more generalized effect. Indirect moxibustion is often preferred for individuals with
sensitive or delicate skin.

Moxibustion is considered a safe therapy when practiced by trained professionals. However, it

may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions or sensitivities.
It is important to consult a qualified practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine to determine if
moxibustion is appropriate for your individual needs.

In conclusion, moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning
of moxa, a dried herb, on or near specific points of the body. It is believed to promote the flow of
qi and blood, providing therapeutic benefits for a variety of health conditions.