Acupuncture (= treating with needle, in Chinese “zhen” is actually only one of the two parts of the frequently used treatment method of TCM, which is practised together in China and named as an entity “zheujiu” (= needle, heat). “Jiu” in turn stands for “Ai jiu”. “Ai” is the Chinese name of the moxa herb Artemsia vulgaris used in Zhenjiu, which is burned and the heat thus generated is applied to the acupuncture points with or without  using the needle at the same time.  So is the origin of the special expression “moxibustion”. In China, acupuncture and moxibustion belong together as zhenjiu. In the practical sense, a “cigar” made out  of the dried moxa herb rolled together is lighted till it is glowing, smoke is visible and a pleasant smell detectable. It is then held over the acupuncture points to exert a warming effect. As an alternative, a small piece of the moxa herb is fixed on the head of an  acupuncture needle and  then set to glow. The warmth is thus transmitted inwardly through the needle.

In the western world, moxibustion is unfortunately not practised enough due to the trouble and the smell. The biggest healing effect of moxibustion is the supple of warmth and Yang energy to the body, at the same time driving out cold and dampness. It is thus highly valuable for chronic diseases and during convalescence, where there is lack of energy  and Yang deficiency.  Moxibustion is also indicated for women and children with symptoms of cold, for acute illnesses due to climatic coldness and dampness.

Basically, points in the areas of the abdomen, the back and the lower extremities are treated with moxa, but not areas of the head because here Yang energy is enough or in excess.  After an introduction, the patient can be supplied with the necessary materials and apply moxa treatment himself at home.