Can moxibustion prevent and treat the novel coronavirus?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Moxibustion can be used as an auxiliary method for preventing COVID-19 and managing mild cases, but it cannot replace core medical treatments and is not suitable for severe cases. Moxibustion helps warm and unblock the meridians, regulate qi and blood, and enhance the body's resistance, thus providing supportive benefits in preventing COVID-19 infection. For patients with mild symptoms presenting cold-related manifestations such as aversion to cold and fatigue, moxibustion may help alleviate discomfort and support recovery.
Generally, moxibustion can be used as an auxiliary method for preventing COVID-19 and managing mild symptoms, but it cannot replace core medical treatments and is not suitable for severe cases. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Specific details are as follows:
Moxibustion helps warm and unblock meridians, regulate qi and blood, and enhance the body's resistance, thereby providing some supportive benefits in preventing COVID-19 infection. For individuals with mild symptoms such as chills and fatigue—typical manifestations of cold syndromes—moxibustion may help relieve discomfort and support recovery.
However, moxibustion does not have direct antiviral effects and cannot substitute pharmacological treatments. In severe cases or when symptoms such as high fever and sore throat (indicative of heat syndromes) are present, using moxibustion might worsen symptoms and delay effective disease management.
Moxibustion should be performed only under the guidance of trained professionals to avoid improper techniques that could cause burns. Prevention and control of COVID-19 should primarily rely on scientifically proven protective measures and standardized medical treatments. Do not rely solely on moxibustion or neglect fundamental preventive practices.
