Moxa sticks are made from the leaves of the mugwort (Artemisia Argyi) and may be used to stimulate acupuncture points of the body.
The combustion of moxa permits the transmission of heat to the acupoints or other parts of the body that have various pathological changes. It is an external therapy to treat or prevent diseases and promote the health of the body.
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What you will need to prepare:
Before using a moxa stick, you will need to prepare the following:
- A lighter or candle.
- A moxa extinguisher.
- An ashtray for storing moxa ashes.
Since the burning of moxa stick will produce smoke, it is recommended to perform moxibustion in a well-ventilated place.
How to Use:
- Light the moxa stick with a lighter or candle, the moment the fire touches the stick, you have to slowly rotate it so the flame will capture all the ends. Then blow on the stick to assist with the lighting until the entire surface of the end is glowing evenly.
- Holding a fully lit moxa stick like a pen, move it around the desired areas, keep the moxa stick above 1-2 inches over the skin surface and remove it before it gets too hot.
- De-ash the moxa stick. Tap the stick and knock it off when ash starts to build up. This process may need to be repeated more than once during moxibustion.
- After the moxibustion treatment, use the moxa extinguisher to put off the burning stick. Do not use water, as it may cause the moxa stick to weaken, crack or be hard to burn for next time use.
Cautions:
- Consult your healthcare practitioner before using moxa if you’re pregnant, or you have other health issues.
- Moxibustion should not be performed over the face or over other sensitive tissues.
- Do not take a bath within two hours after moxibustion.
- Do not leave a burning Moxa stick unattended. Make sure the burning moxa sticks are completely extinguished after moxibustion.
