Moxibustion (Moxa) is a form of heat treatment that stimulates specific acupuncture points of the Healthy Body. The most common form of Moxa, is indirect where the practitioner lights a Moxa stick (roughly the shape and size of a cigar) and holds it slightly above the skin (sometimes at a needle location) to bring mild warmth to the area. The intensity of the heat is adjusted according to the patient’s condition and comfort. This therapy causes a gradual localized vasodilatation response. In addition to increasing the local blood flow, it can also be extremely comforting and create a deep relaxation response.
In combination with acupuncture, Moxa therapy can be very effective for many diseases and conditions including back pain, muscle stiffness, headaches, migraines, tendonitis, arthritis, digestive disorders, anxiety, and female health problems such as menstrual cramps, irregular periods, and infertility.
