Moxibustion
Common Moxibustion Methods and Their Application Techniques
Ⅰ. Moxibustion Techniques
Moxibustion is a therapeutic method that uses the heat generated by burning moxa sticks or moxa cones, applied directly or indirectly to acupuncture points or affected areas, in order to prevent and treat diseases.
According to the method of application, moxibustion can be divided into two main categories:
1. Direct Moxibustion
This involves placing a moxa cone directly on the skin and burning it. It is further divided into:
(1) Scarring Moxibustion
Commonly used for suppurative (pustule-forming) moxibustion, usually with small moxa cones.
A small amount of ginger juice or garlic juice may be applied to the skin to improve adhesion.
The moxa cone is burned down to its base, the ash removed, and a new cone applied until a scar forms.
May cause blisters, ulcers, or scars; contraindicated for thin skin areas such as the face.
Typically applied to the abdomen, back, or areas with well-developed muscles.
✅ Note: Scarring moxibustion is a controlled, non-infectious stimulation.
(2) Non-Scarring Moxibustion
The moxa cone is removed when it is half or two-fifths burned to avoid skin injury.
Usually performed with small or medium-sized cones.
After treatment, sesame oil may be applied to moisturize the skin.
Can be used at areas showing mild redness to maintain a warming effect.
2. Indirect Moxibustion
This method involves placing a medium or barrier (such as slices of ginger, garlic, salt, or medicinal cakes) between the moxa cone and the skin to prevent direct contact.
(1) Ginger Moxibustion
A slice of ginger (0.1–0.3 cm thick) is placed on the selected point.
When the burning sensation becomes intense, the moxa cone is replaced.
Main effects: Warming the middle burner, stopping nausea, strengthening the spleen, dispelling cold, and unblocking meridians.
(2) Garlic Moxibustion
Garlic slices (0.2–0.3 cm thick) are used.
Garlic is pungent and warm; it dispels cold-dampness and disperses toxins.
Commonly used for treating carbuncles, abscesses, and even venomous snake bites.
(3) Salt Moxibustion
Often applied to the Shenque (CV8, umbilical region).
Finely ground salt is placed in the navel, and a moxa cone is placed on top.
Used for conditions such as diarrhea, rectal prolapse, and cold-type abdominal pain.
(4) Medicinal Cake Moxibustion (Cake Moxibustion)
A small cake (1–2 cm diameter, 0.3–0.5 cm thick) is made from aconite powder mixed with yellow wine.
A moxa cone is placed on top for burning.
Suitable for yang deficiency syndromes such as decline of the Mingmen fire, premature ejaculation, and cold limbs.
Ⅱ. Moxa Stick Methods
Moxa stick moxibustion involves rolling moxa into a stick, lighting it, and applying heat near acupuncture points or affected areas.
The main techniques include:
Suspended Moxibustion: Holding the burning moxa stick 2–3 cm from the skin.
Mild-Warm Moxibustion: Applying steady heat until a comfortable warmth is felt without burning.
Circular (Rotary) Moxibustion: Moving the burning moxa stick in small circles above the area to evenly distribute heat.
