Who should not undergo moxibustion

Generally, moxibustion is not recommended for individuals allergic to moxa smoke, pregnant women, women during their menstrual period, those with yin deficiency and hyperactivity of yang or internal heat due to yin deficiency, patients with high fever, and individuals with a significant tendency to bleed. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Individuals Allergic to Moxa Smoke

Moxibustion may cause adverse reactions such as skin itching and swelling in individuals allergic to moxa smoke. Therefore, these individuals should avoid moxibustion or undergo an allergy test before receiving treatment.

2. Pregnant Women and Women During Their Menstrual Period

Moxibustion may cause abnormal uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnant women. For women during their menstrual period, moxibustion may lead to increased menstrual flow and menstrual irregularities. Therefore, pregnant women and women during their menstrual period should avoid moxibustion.

3. Individuals with Yin Deficiency and Hyperactivity of Yang or Internal Heat Due to Yin Deficiency

Individuals with yin deficiency and hyperactivity of yang or internal heat due to yin deficiency typically exhibit symptoms of excessive internal heat caused by yin deficiency, such as warm palms and soles, internal heat discomfort, dry mouth and throat, flushed cheeks, night sweats with tidal fever, and a thin and rapid pulse. Since moxibustion has the effect of warming and supplementing yang energy, it may exacerbate the condition of excessive internal heat due to yin deficiency, leading to further imbalance of yin and yang in the body and further harming health.

4. Patients with High Fever

Patients with high fever have accumulated heat in the body and elevated body temperature. At this time, moxibustion may worsen the symptoms of fever. Moxibustion promotes blood circulation and metabolism by its warming effect, but for patients with high fever, this warming effect may further raise body temperature, which is not conducive to disease control and recovery.

5. Individuals with a Pronounced Bleeding Tendency

Individuals with a significant bleeding tendency, such as those suffering from coagulation disorders or thrombocytopenia, tend to bleed easily or have difficulty stopping bleeding. During moxibustion, the heat and stimulation generated by the burning moxa stick may trigger or worsen bleeding symptoms, such as skin burns or subcutaneous bleeding. For these individuals, moxibustion may pose additional risks and discomfort.

It is recommended to keep warm after moxibustion, avoiding exposure to wind, air conditioning, or taking a bath immediately. Usually, it is advised not to take a bath or wash hands within three hours after moxibustion to prevent catching a chill.