How to use moxa sticks

Moxa sticks can be used through various methods including direct moxibustion, gentle moxibustion, sparrow-pecking moxibustion, rotary moxibustion, and barrier moxibustion.

1. Direct Moxibustion: The ignited moxa stick is held directly above the skin for moxibustion. This method requires careful operation to avoid burning the skin.

2. Gentle Moxibustion: In gentle moxibustion, the ignited end of the moxa stick is positioned toward the acupoint or affected area, approximately 3–5 cm away from the skin, for warming.

3. Sparrow-Pecking Moxibustion: Sparrow-pecking moxibustion involves moving the ignited moxa stick up and down like a bird pecking, while performing the treatment.

4. Rotary Moxibustion: Rotary moxibustion involves moving the ignited moxa stick in circular motions above the acupoint.

5. Barrier Moxibustion: Barrier moxibustion involves placing a layer of medium such as slices of ginger, garlic, or aconite cake between the skin and the moxa stick before performing moxibustion.

When performing moxibustion with moxa sticks, suitable acupoints or areas should be selected. An appropriate distance should be maintained between the moxa stick and the skin to prevent burns. The duration of moxibustion should not be too long, generally 5–15 minutes per acupoint. Additionally, it is important to keep the body warm after moxibustion to avoid catching a chill.