What causes yellow skin after moxibustion?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Yellowing of the skin after moxibustion is primarily a normal physiological response. It results from increased local blood circulation due to the thermal stimulation produced by burning mugwort, leading to temporary pigment deposition. This usually fades gradually with metabolism. If the yellowing is accompanied by itching, redness, swelling, pain, or persists for an extended period, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. In normal physiological cases, the discoloration typically occurs around the moxibustion points and adjacent areas.

Yellowing of the skin after moxibustion is primarily a normal physiological response. It occurs due to the thermal stimulation from burning mugwort, which increases local blood circulation and causes temporary pigment deposition. This typically fades gradually with metabolism. However, if the yellowing is accompanied by itching, redness, swelling, pain, or does not resolve over time, prompt medical evaluation is necessary.

In normal physiological cases, the yellowing usually appears around the moxibustion points and adjacent areas, presenting as light yellow or yellowish-brown in color, without other discomfort symptoms. This is a benign skin reaction to heat stimulation that does not damage skin tissue and requires no special treatment.

If yellowing is accompanied by abnormal symptoms, it may indicate mild burns caused by excessive temperature or prolonged duration during moxibustion, or an inflammatory reaction due to individual allergy to moxa smoke or mugwort. In such cases, there is a risk of worsening skin damage, and timely medical assessment and management are advised.

After moxibustion, gently wipe the treated area with a clean, warm towel, keeping the skin clean and dry. Avoid vigorous rubbing or scratching. Avoid exposing the area to cold water or using irritating skincare products in the short term. Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing to minimize friction and irritation, promoting skin recovery.

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Where to apply moxibustion for novel coronavirus infection

After a novel coronavirus infection, moxibustion can be applied to acupoints that help relieve exterior syndromes, dispel cold, promote lung function, regulate qi, strengthen the spleen, and boost vital energy. Commonly used acupoints include Dazhui (GV14), Feishu (BL13), Zusanli (ST36), Shanzhong (CV17), and Shenque (CV8). It is important to observe contraindications and precautions when performing moxibustion, carefully control the duration and temperature to avoid skin burns.

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When is the best time to have moxibustion after menstruation ends?

You can perform moxibustion 3 days after menstruation ends. At this time, the endometrium has mostly healed, so the thermal stimulation from moxibustion will not cause abnormal bleeding, and it avoids irritating the reproductive system before it has fully recovered. If discomfort such as abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding occurs after moxibustion, stop immediately and seek medical attention promptly. Moxibustion has the effects of warming the meridians, dispelling cold, promoting blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. When menstruation has just ended,

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Which area is best to apply moxibustion for lumbar muscle strain?

Generally speaking, there is no definitive answer to "which specific site for moxibustion is most effective for lumbar muscle strain." Moxibustion for lumbar muscle strain primarily aims to warm the meridians, unblock collaterals, promote blood circulation to relieve pain, and alleviate muscle tension. The more effective treatment sites are usually acupoints in the lumbar region and the areas of localized muscle strain. Commonly used points include Shenshu (BL23), Mingmen (GV4), Yaoyangguan (GV3), Weizhong (BL40), and Ashi points.

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What causes red discharge after menstruation when using moxibustion, and what should be done?

In general, spotting or red discharge after menstruation ends following moxibustion may be caused by factors such as incomplete endometrial repair, thermal stimulation from moxibustion, endometritis, uterine fibroids, or cervical polyps. Appropriate measures can be taken based on the specific situation to improve the condition. It is recommended to wait 3–5 days after menstruation ends before performing moxibustion, and to properly identify acupuncture points beforehand. Maintain a regular daily routine in everyday life.