Can Zusanli (ST36) be moxibusted every day?

Mar 28, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Frequent moxibustion at the Zusanli (ST36) acupoint can help regulate qi and blood, promote digestion, and improve spleen and stomach function. If there are no contraindications to moxibustion—such as internal heat or damp-heat syndromes—it is generally safe to perform moxibustion daily. However, moxibustion is usually contraindicated in cases of high fever, external contraction of warm diseases, yin deficiency with internal heat, extreme fatigue, or during menstruation. Under these conditions, daily moxibustion at Zusanli should generally be avoided.

Whether Zusanli (ST36) can be moxibusted daily generally depends on individual circumstances. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Yes

Zusanli is an important acupoint in the human body. Regular moxibustion at this point usually helps regulate qi and blood, promote digestion, and improve spleen and stomach function. If there are no contraindications to moxibustion—such as internal heat or damp-heat syndrome—it is generally safe to perform daily moxibustion on Zusanli.

2. No

If the patient has high fever, external contraction of warm diseases, yin deficiency with internal heat, extreme fatigue, or is menstruating, these conditions are typically considered contraindications for moxibustion. In such cases, daily moxibustion at Zusanli should generally be avoided.

After moxibustion, blisters or even pus may appear on the skin. This is often a normal manifestation of pathogenic factors being expelled from the body. Local disinfection can be performed under the guidance of a physician to alleviate symptoms.