Moxibustion is the application of heat to certain areas or acupoints of the body through a warming agent created by the herb mugwort (Artemisia Argyi). Small rice grain-sized moxa cones are placed directly on the skin, burned and then snuffed off before it reaches the skin. This is referred to as direct moxibustion. Indirect moxibustion involves lighting a mugwort stick about the size of a cigar, and allowing the heat to emanate from the stick onto the acupoints or areas. No part of the skin is in direct contact with the moxibustion. The indirect method can be done without acupuncture needles so the area itself is stimulated by heat or performed with acupuncture needles, where the needles are warmed and the heat conducted through the needles into the meridians.

Moxibustion has a warming, soothing, relaxing effect on the body. The warmth of the moxibustion travels deep into the body and the meridians and stimulates chi and blood, improving circulation and dispelling cold and pain from the body. Moxibustion also has a very tonifying effect on the body and strengthens the body to counteract chronic illnesses, exhaustion and a weak digestion. In addition, moxibustion is extremely effective in preventing diseases and keeping the body healthy.

Moxibustion is commonly used d to help remedy arthritis, back pain, cramping during the period, weak digestion, fatigue, cold sensitivity, poor circulation and diarrhea.