Can moxibustion be performed during menstruation?

Moxibustion is a very common health-preserving therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), typically applied to the abdomen. It helps relax tendons and meridians and promotes blood circulation while resolving blood stasis.

Menstruation is a special physiological period, during which many women worry that performing moxibustion on the abdomen may adversely affect their bodies. So, is moxibustion permissible during menstruation?

Can moxibustion be performed during menstruation?

Generally speaking, moxibustion can be performed during menstruation. Abdominal moxibustion offers certain benefits for women’s health—especially when menstrual flow is relatively light, its effects become more noticeable. However, moxibustion during menstruation may increase menstrual bleeding or even lead to prolonged bleeding. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid abdominal moxibustion during menstruation. Instead, moxibustion can be used after menstruation ends to regulate the body, effectively dispelling cold and promoting blood circulation to resolve stasis.

Moxibustion is a traditional TCM therapy that effectively improves women’s physical conditions—particularly beneficial for those suffering from coldness in the body or uterine cramping discomfort. It is recommended to schedule moxibustion outside of the menstrual period, ensuring both personal health and optimal therapeutic outcomes. During menstruation, women should avoid cold foods—including inherently cooling items such as ice pops and watermelon—as well as sour and astringent foods. Acidic foods may exacerbate bodily coldness; for example, smoked plums and unripe sour fruits should be avoided.

In daily life, maintain regular, balanced eating habits—avoid spicy and stimulating foods, overeating, or staying up late. We hope this information proves helpful to you.