Moxibustion (Moxa)

Warmth and vitality

Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy that applies gentle heat from the herb mugwort (moxa) to specific acupuncture points. It's deeply warming and restorative, and is often included in an acupuncture treatment to strengthen Qi and ease stagnation.

San Fu Moxa, seasonal treatment

San Fu Moxa is applied on the peak Yang days of the Daoist calendar each summer, when Yang Qi is at its highest, to help prepare the body for the colder seasons ahead. It works best when received on all three days. 2026 dates were July 15, July 25 and August 4, with an optional booster on August 14. Contact us to join next year's list.

Commonly used for

• Feeling cold or depleted
• Muscle tension and chronic aches
• Seasonal immune support
• Deep relaxation

Acupuncture is a complementary therapy. It works alongside, not instead of, care from your physician or specialist. Please tell your practitioner about any diagnoses, medications or pregnancy.

What is moxibustion?

Moxibustion, or moxa, is a traditional Chinese Medicine therapy that uses dried mugwort (Artemisia) to warm specific acupuncture points. The moxa may be held just above the skin, placed on the handle of an acupuncture needle, or used in other ways that keep the warmth gentle and comfortable. The heat is used to encourage circulation and to address patterns of cold and stagnation.

What it feels like

Most people describe moxa as a soothing, penetrating warmth. Your practitioner stays with you and adjusts the distance and timing so it never feels too hot. Moxa has a distinctive, earthy scent.

Frequently asked questions

Can I book moxa on its own?

Moxa is usually part of an acupuncture treatment. San Fu moxa is a short, seasonal treatment offered in the summer; contact us to book it.

Is moxa safe?

Moxa is applied carefully to avoid burns. Let your practitioner know if you are pregnant, have reduced sensation in your skin or have any respiratory sensitivity to smoke.