Moxibustion

A traditional Chinese medicine practice that uses the heat of moxa, a preparation made from mugwort, to stimulate specific areas of the body and acupuncture points.

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For centuries, traditional Chinese medicine has viewed the body as a whole, placing balance and harmony at its core. Through a range of practices, it seeks to support the body's natural functioning and foster a genuine sense of well-being.

What is moxibustion ?

Moxibustion involves applying targeted heat to specific areas of the body using moxa, which is usually made from dried mugwort.

The moxa is heated or burned close to the skin so its warmth gradually spreads through the chosen area. The practice is closely related to acupuncture and is one of the main approaches within traditional Chinese medicine.

Unlike acupuncture, where stimulation is mainly achieved with fine needles, moxibustion relies above all on the action of heat.

What needs can it help with ?

In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion is traditionally used in a variety of contexts, particularly to help with certain aches and tension or to promote a feeling of comfort and relaxation.

It can, in particular, be offered for concerns such as :

Aches & tension

Certain muscular or joint pain
Tension in the back and body
Feelings of stiffness

Comfort & balance

A feeling of cold or heaviness
Certain digestive discomforts
A search for better overall balance

Relaxation

A need for relaxation
A feeling of tension or fatigue
A moment of relaxation and well-being

What can you feel during a session ?

The main sensation is a gradual, enveloping warmth.

Depending on the area being treated, the heat may feel more or less intense. It should always remain comfortable and never cause a burning sensation.

Some people particularly enjoy this feeling of warmth and gradually experience a sense of relaxation or release.

After the session, it's also common to feel more relaxed or slightly tired.

A gentle, targeted warmth

What makes moxibustion distinctive is this sensation of gradual warmth, applied precisely to specific areas of the body.

The heat is held at a suitable distance from the skin and adjusted according to the area being treated and the person's sensitivity.

A pleasant warmth, never a burn.

Moxibustion and acupuncture : what's the difference ?

Both practices come from traditional Chinese medicine and can sometimes be used together.

Acupuncture

Stimulation of precise points using fine needles.

Moxibustion

Stimulation mainly through the heat produced by the moxa.

Moxibustion can therefore be used on its own or alongside acupuncture, depending on the practitioner's approach.

Frequently asked questions

No. The moxa is held at a suitable distance from the skin and never placed directly on it. The heat should stay pleasant, never painful — let your practitioner know if you feel any discomfort.

The practice is ventilated during the session. If you’re sensitive to the smell of smoke, let us know before your visit.

Yes — it’s actually one of the most common combinations in traditional Chinese medicine, with the heat of the moxa extending the effect of the needles.

Moxibustion isn’t recommended on broken or irritated skin, and certain precautions apply during pregnancy. Let us know about any particular situation before your session.

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