Moxibustion
Moxibustion in St. Petersburg, FL
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× Moxibustion Acupuncture Types of Moxibustion What We Use Moxa for in Treatment Rooms What Our Clients Say How to use this weird stick my acupuncturist gave me? Instructions for At-Home Moxa Treatments Contraindications for Moxibustion Our Practitioners Business Information Featured Blog PostsMoxibustion Acupuncture
Moxibustion is a processed form of Mugwort Leaf, Artemisiae Argy Folium/Ai Ye, that has been used for over 2000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine. In fact, the characters for acupuncture in Chinese cannot be written without the character for Moxa, they are so entwined in practice. Mugwort has been used across the world in every culture’s folk medicine that had access to the plant, being named for the Greek Goddess Artemis and is often used for gynecological issues (among MANY other things.) Moxibustion is simply the practice of using moxa, which has been processed into moxa “wool” and comes in many forms. The moxa is burned, emanating infrared heat and smoke. Moxibustion is typically done using a small cone or stick made of compressed mugwort that is burned and held over specific points on the body, either directly or indirectly. Here are the different methods.
Types of Moxibustion
Direct Moxibustion
A small cone or ball of moxa is placed directly on the skin or on top of an acupuncture needle and then lit. This method is used for a short period of time to generate a warm sensation in the area.
InDirect Moxibustion
A moxibustion practitioner will use moxa that is wrapped around the end of a needle or placed on top of a slice of ginger, garlic, or salt and then burned. This is held about an inch above the skin at the acupuncture point, generating a gentle heat that penetrates the skin and tissue.
Moxibustion with a Moxa Box
A moxibustion practitioner will light moxa inside a box and allow the smoke and heat to penetrate the skin. The box is typically placed on the skin above the acupuncture point, with a layer of cloth in between the box and the skin to prevent burning. The choice of method depends on the patient’s condition, the acupuncturist’s experience, and personal preference. Moxibustion is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, and the two methods are believed to complement each other, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
What We Use Moxibustion for in Treatment Rooms
Warming the Channels/Meridians-Expelling Cold Pain Relief
Pain that gets worse in the cold, or old injuries that occurred in a cold environment (remember that ski trip injury?) will usually respond well to a treatment involving moxibustion.
Managing Inflammation-Improving Circulation and Stagnation
Moxibustion manages inflammation from both infection and trauma by stimulating the circulatory system. Moxa increases the flow of qi and blood to the areas used.
Improving Immunity
Moxa specifically increases white blood cell counts. For this purpose moxa is usually instructed to be used at Zu San Li, Stomach 36 point on the lateral upper leg. See directions below.
Turning Breech Babies
A study of 226 women showed that moxibustion acupuncture resulted in a 27% decrease in risk of having a breech baby at birth, and a 21% decrease in risk of having a cesarean section.
PEMF Mats
PEMF mats (pulsed electromagnetic field therapy) deliver additional benefits for your session. These mats provide photon light, far-infrared heat therapy with PEMF on jade, tourmaline, and amethyst, helping with relaxation, detoxification, and energy restoration. PEMF mats are in every moxibustion treatment room and are complemintary in all treatments, but we turn them off for pregnancy and people with pacemakers or other electronic devices implanted.
Testimonials
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“Emily exudes kindness, warmth, confidence in her craft, and generosity. The space was incredible, I feel like I am in great hands! The intake process was so involved and thorough; I felt seen and was encouraged to share and to take my time. So many amazing healing modalities and offerings…
– Jessica Yatooma
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“I can’t say enough great things about Emily Armstrong, and the Art of Acupuncture!! Her, and her staff, are by far the best I’ve ever encountered. Their knowledge and expertise are simply unmatched. If you haven’t been here, you are doing yourself, and your well being, a real disservice. Being…
– Michael Scranton
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“I see Emily and Hannah, and both are exceptional. They’re in-tune, nurturing, and knowledgeable…”
– Shantell
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“Hannah is the absolute best! …she has been the most kind and caring person throughout the process.”
– Jenna Martinez
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“I can’t say enough great things about Art of Acupuncture! Everyone is so friendly and considerate. I’ve been working with Hannah regularly for a couple of months now and she’s incredible. Every session is thoughtful, intentional, and so relaxing. Highly recommend!”
– Jessica Hayden
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“If you are looking for a knowledgeable and caring staff it is Art of Acupuncture. I have been going here for 3 years Emily always know the best treatment for my unique issues. Her experience and has made a difference in my health. Looking forward to my next visit.”
– Stephanie Raimer
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“Thanks Hillary, Emily, and your team, for helping myself and my friends. Your practice is the pivotal moment where life-changing events happen. As a patient, you explain things easily and help me to feel validated along my journey- it’s empowering.”
– Colette Florido
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“Health and wellness are so entwined in a safe compassionate space and Emily embraces and conveys those healing elements in each treatment. I’ve always left Art of Acupuncture feeling like a better version of my whole being. Deep gratitude for Emily and her expertise.”
– Robin Hinaman
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“Emily is amazing! I’ve been going here for 3 years now and she is super professional, and takes care of all of my specific needs! You can’t put a price on self care. 10/10”
– Berni Belanger
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“Love working with Hannah! She’s wonderful and love the entire office!”
– Stacey F
How to use this weird stick my acupuncturist gave me?
*We suggest doing your moxibustion treatment OUTSIDE, this is a smoky and smelly process.
First, gather the following items:
- A lighter or candle. Moxa lights slowly, like a cigar. A torch lighter or a candle are the easiest.
- A ceramic or glass bowl with a layer of rice or sand to extinguish the stick. You can also use a jar with a lid and a layer of rice or sand to extinguish and store the moxa in for future use.
- A small bowl to tap ash into.
- A towel or foil to place under the area you are treating to catch any falling ash.
- A cup of water, just in case.
Instructions for At-Home Moxibustion Treatments
- Light the end of the moxa stick over the flame you are using. This takes a few minutes to get a nice glowing end on the stick.
- Brush off any ash that has accumulated around the head in your ash cup.
- Hold the moxa stick like a pencil about 1-2 cm above the acupuncture point or points your practitioner has instructed you to use. Use only the points or areas prescribed.
- DO NOT TOUCH THE MOXA TO YOUR SKIN, PAY ATTENTION TO THE PROCESS.
- IT WILL BURN YOU.
- The moxa stick can be moved in small circles over the point, a short left to right motion, or in a pecking motion, closer and further away from the point, staying in the 1-2 cm range from the skin. The area may redden.
- The moxa should feel pleasantly warm and will suddenly feel very hot. This can take several minutes, be mindful and patient.
- At this point move to the next selected point or to the point on the other side of the body.
- If not given more specific instructions, doing 3-5 rounds per point or 3-10 minutes per side or area is a general guideline.
Contraindications for Moxibustion
- Do not perform moxibustion if you are feeling unwell or have a fever.
- Do not get too close to the skin surface, moxa will burn badly.
- Those with neuropathy should use extreme caution or leave this to their practitioner.
Our Moxibustion Practitioners
Emily Armstrong
Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, Registered Herbalist, Gua Sha Scraping Specialist, Meditation Instructor, Co-Owner of Art of Acupuncture
Dr. Hillary Talbott Roland
Doctor in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, Certified Fellow of the Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine, Co-Owner of Art of Acupuncture
Kecia Fowler
Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, Certified Facial Rejuvenation, Certified APIT, Certified Zero Balance Practitioner, Facial Rejuvenation Certified
Dr. Hannah Winner
Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Doctor of Acupuncture & Eastern Medicine, Certified Fellow of the Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine
Katie Gibran
Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician, Certified APIT, Fertility- Natural & IVF, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, Chronic Illness and Pain, Microneedling
Frequently Asked Questions About Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that uses gentle heat from burning an herb called mugwort (also known as moxa) near specific acupuncture points. The warmth helps stimulate circulation, warm the meridians, and support the smooth flow of Qi (energy). It’s often used alongside acupuncture treatments to enhance results, especially when the body needs warming and nourishment.
Moxibustion is commonly used for chronic pain, arthritis, digestive issues, fatigue, menstrual discomfort, fertility support, and immune system weakness. It’s especially helpful for conditions that feel worse in cold weather or involve poor circulation. Many patients receive moxibustion as part of a broader treatment plan that may also include acupuncture, cupping therapy, or gua sha, depending on their needs.
Acupuncture uses very thin, sterile needles to stimulate specific points on the body, while moxibustion applies heat to those same points using moxa. Both therapies aim to restore balance and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. When combined, moxibustion and acupuncture can work synergistically—needles move Qi, while moxa warms and strengthens it.
Yes, when performed by a licensed acupuncturist, moxibustion is very safe. The sensation is typically warm and soothing, not painful. Your practitioner carefully controls the heat to keep the treatment comfortable and effective. Many patients describe moxibustion as deeply relaxing and grounding.
During treatment, your practitioner may hold a lit moxa stick near specific acupuncture points or use another technique based on your condition. You’ll feel a gentle warmth in the area being treated. Moxibustion can be used on its own or combined with acupuncture or other modalities to support your overall treatment goals. Sessions are calm, relaxing, and tailored to your individual needs.
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Our Office
2941 5th Avenue North St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Hour of Operation
Monday – Thursday: 8:30am – 6:30pm
Friday – Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
