Moxa therapy is an ancient technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), either on its own or, very frequently, as a complement to acupuncture.

Dating back to approximately 500 BC, moxa is made from a blend of dried herbs, with Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort) as its primary ingredient. You’ll typically find it in the form of cones or cigar-shaped sticks.

During a session, specific points or areas of the body are warmed by holding lit moxa sticks close to the skin. As this warmth penetrates deeply into the tissues, it can travel through the energy channels (meridians) throughout the body, providing relief for various conditions.

Benefits and Applications

Moxa can be used preventatively, particularly, as Chinese tradition suggests, before winter begins, to strengthen and stimulate the immune system. Its warmth also helps to move stagnant energy and blood in the body when pain is present, and can expel cold and dampness.

Some conditions that may benefit from moxa therapy include:

• Common cold
• Fatigue
• Lower back pain (lumbago)
• Musculoskeletal pains caused by cold (e.g., in shoulders, knees)
• Digestive issues
• Organ prolapse
• Infertility
• Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)