A GUIDE TO YOUR CARE
Moxibustion
Learn about moxibustion, its traditional use in Chinese medicine, what treatment feels like, and when it may be included in your care.
Santa Clara, California
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that uses moxa, prepared from dried mugwort, to apply therapeutic warmth to selected acupuncture points or areas of the body.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, moxibustion is traditionally used to warm the meridians, dispel cold, and support the circulation of qi and blood. It may be used on its own or together with acupuncture depending on the individual and the reason for treatment.
How we use moxibustion
Moxibustion is not automatically included in every treatment. We consider your symptoms, overall condition, and treatment needs before deciding whether it may be appropriate.
Depending on your condition, we may use different forms of moxibustion. In some cases, we may use Thunder-Fire Moxibustion (Lei Huo Jiu), a traditional form of moxibustion that provides a more intensive warming experience.
Patients may feel significant warmth and may perspire more during this type of treatment. Treatment is adjusted according to your condition, comfort, and response.
Moxibustion may be used on its own or together with acupuncture depending on your treatment needs.
How moxibustion may help
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, moxibustion is traditionally used to warm the meridians, dispel cold, and support the circulation of qi and blood. It is often considered when a person's symptoms or overall pattern are associated with cold, stiffness, or discomfort that responds well to warmth.
Depending on the individual, moxibustion may be incorporated into care for:
Pain & stiffness
Moxibustion may be used as part of treatment for certain areas of pain, soreness, or stiffness, particularly when warmth feels beneficial.
Muscle tension & tightness
Moxibustion may be incorporated into treatment for areas that feel tight or uncomfortable.
Cold-related discomfort
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, moxibustion is commonly considered when symptoms are associated with cold or when warming treatment is appropriate.
Recovery & general well-being
Depending on the individual, moxibustion may also be incorporated into an overall treatment approach to support recovery and general well-being.
Whether moxibustion is appropriate depends on your individual condition. It is not automatically included in every treatment.
What does treatment feel like?
During moxibustion, the treated areas and your body will gradually feel warm. Some patients may become quite warm and perspire considerably, especially during Thunder-Fire Moxibustion.
If at any time the heat feels too strong or uncomfortable, please let us know so we can adjust the treatment.
When may moxibustion be considered?
Moxibustion may be considered when warming treatment fits your symptoms and overall condition.
Because heat is involved, moxibustion may not be appropriate over areas with significant skin irritation, open wounds, or active inflammation.
Please let us know if you are pregnant, have significant skin sensitivity, or have another health concern that may affect whether moxibustion is appropriate for you.
We’ll consider your individual condition before including moxibustion in your treatment.
06 · FAQ
A few common questions
Does moxibustion hurt?
Moxibustion should feel warm rather than painful. If the heat becomes uncomfortable, please let us know so we can adjust the treatment.
Can moxibustion burn the skin?
Because moxibustion involves heat, skin irritation or burns are possible. Treatment is monitored carefully, and you should let us know immediately if an area feels excessively hot or uncomfortable.
Can everyone receive moxibustion?
No. Moxibustion is not appropriate for every person or every condition. We consider your symptoms, skin condition, overall health, and treatment needs before using it.
Can moxibustion be combined with acupuncture?
Yes. Depending on your condition, moxibustion may be used on its own or together with acupuncture.
Is moxibustion covered by insurance?
Moxibustion is not covered by insurance at our clinic. If you are interested in adding moxibustion to your care, please ask us about current pricing.
How many treatments will I need?
There is no fixed number. It depends on why moxibustion is being used and how you respond to treatment. We’ll discuss follow-up care based on your individual needs.
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