Is the smoke from moxibustion harmful to the human body?

Generally speaking, inhaling small amounts of smoke from moxibustion is harmless to the human body. Moxibustion is a form of physical therapy in traditional Chinese medicine, in which the heat generated by burning moxa sticks is applied to specific acupoints to achieve effects such as warming the meridians to dispel cold, and resolving blood stasis and nodules. During the moxibustion process, smoke is produced when the moxa sticks or moxa wool burn. Although this smoke contains substances such as tar, benzaldehyde, and phenol, occasional inhalation typically does not cause harm to health. Additionally, the smoke produced by burning moxa has certain bactericidal and inhibitory effects on some bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, and may help prevent certain cases of influenza. However, when the concentration of moxibustion smoke is too high or inhaled in large quantities over a long period, it may pose certain health risks. High concentrations of smoke can act as an irritant to individuals with conditions such as allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia, potentially triggering or worsening their symptoms.