What is moxa?

Moxibustion- the cousin of acupuncture and a huge piece of the umbrella of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

This piece of Chinese medicine is so fundamental to the practice and healing is that it is literally represented in the Chinese character of acupuncture.

針灸

The first character, the one that appears to have a cross in it, is the needle, fundamental to acupuncture. The cross itself looks like a needle.

The second character, the one on the right, is the character for moxibustion. The fire is represented in the lower half of the character.

The word for acupuncture in Chinese is Zhen Jiu. Zhen represents needle. Jiu represents moxibustion.

Given that the word moxibustion is literally in the character for acupuncture shows you how important this modality is!

Moxa is an herb that is dried in the sun, filtered and processed (to make it smooth!), and then safely burned around or on acupuncture points. Moxa can also be ingested as a tea.

Moxa harnesses fire and the warmth that the fire brings. In Chinese Medicine, we know that moxa warms something called Yang, dispels damp, moves blood, and can help with inflammation.

Moxa is commonly used to boost the immune system, warm the womb to enhance fertility, regulate the menstrual cycle, induce ovulation, alleviate menstrual cramps, support the health of the thyroid, help clear edema, support digestion, help with brain fog, pain, and fatigue.

Moxa is amazing and I regularly use it in my acupuncture practice. In fact, if you have ever had an appointment with me, you may have smelled it or even experienced it!

Want to explore moxibustion and acupuncture? Connect and schedule an appointment with me by clicking here.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended for the purpose of providing medical advice. All information, content and material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment.