ब्लॉग

A photo of a moxa stick shows just one form of moxibustion. Here is why it helps to ask which form is proposed and why it suits you.

Most images of moxibustion show a glowing cigar-shaped stick held above someone's skin. That picture captures one method, but it is far from the whole story.

More than one kind of moxa

Moxa is made from mugwort, and it can be prepared in several ways: rolled into sticks, shaped into small cones, used as loose wool or attached to the end of a needle, among other methods. Each delivers heat differently, which means one session can feel quite unlike another. A photograph of a single technique does not tell you what your own session will involve.

Asking which form is proposed

Before moxibustion begins, ask Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, which form she is considering for you and her reasons for choosing it. You might also ask how close the heat will be and how long each application lasts.

Past reactions count

Tell Christine about any previous reaction to smoke, incense or heat, even if it happened at home, at a festival or in another country. Coughing, watery eyes, headaches or skin irritation are all relevant, and some forms of moxa produce less smoke than others.

Suitability over tradition

The key question is whether a particular application suits you. Which product looks most authentic, or which gives off the strongest aroma, is much less important.

Comfort as part of every session

Settle on a hand signal for heat that becomes too much, and find out how to look after the treated area later. Your ability to feel heat, the condition of your skin and how your breathing copes with smoke all belong in the discussion. Instructions should be personal to you rather than copied from a video or a relative's experience.

Moxibustion at Lane Cove

At the Lane Cove clinic, the choice of moxa can be made with your sensitivities in mind. If you have asthma, bring any reliever medication with you. This article is general and does not replace an individual assessment.