Moxibustion

Moxibustion is using the Chinese herb, Ai Ye, commonly known as Chinese mugwort, by burning it on or near the skin. An acupuncturist will choose either a direct or indirect technique, using moxa based on the desired therapeutic effect. Moxa can be applied directly using a piece the size of a small grain of rice or larger using a piece shaped like a cone about the size of an almond. The moxa is ignited with a piece of incense and then extinguished or removed before reaching the skin. It can also be used indirectly in form of a lit pole, which is in the shape of a cigar, or a small piece, which is in the shape of a ball or small cone placed, on top of acupuncture needles. There are various uses for moxa, with the most common use to promote warmth and movement over various areas of the body. It is effective is relieving pain which is caused by stagnation. When used with a certain technique, moxa is also effective for reducing swelling and can even help in clearing sinuses. A trained acupuncturist can properly assess the best application for moxa when treating a patient.
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Moxibustion FAQ
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion, also known as moxa, is the application of burning the Chinese herb, mugwort, either directly or indirectly near the skin. While the main application for moxa is to generate warmth and promote movement, it can be used to release heat and resolve inflammation using the appropriate technique by a properly trained acupuncturist.
What is moxibustion used to treat?
Moxibustion is effective in treating pain such as knee pain, low back pain, shoulder pain, certain joint pain, and menstrual cramps. It effectively helps to alleviate swelling and inflammation, which is great for acute injuries. In combination with acupuncture and herbs, moxa can effectively treat a cold. Moxa can be used to warm the body and help with certain digestive issues. In addition, it can be used to help clear the sinuses in certain conditions.
Does Moxibustion hurt?
Moxibustion is not a painful therapy. Patients may feel some warmth when moxa is applied. Some patients may not feel warmth at all, but the warmth is reflected upon palpation of the patient’s skin after using moxa. Specialized burn cream containing Chinese herbs, is used to help protect the skin during the application of direct moxa. When using needle head moxa, the acupuncturist will use moxa guards in certain areas to help stabilize the needle and protect the skin. During therapy involving moxa, the acupuncturist will communicate with the patient to avoid the patient from getting too hot or uncomfortable from the application of moxa being used.
How does moxibustion work?
The herb, Ai Ye, is considered a warm herb in East Asian medicine that is used in some herbal formulas, topical balms, and in moxibustion. By directly burning moxa in the form of poles, as small pieces the size of rice grains, or placed on top of needles, moxa is very warming and promotes the movement of Qi and blood. Qi is the basically the energy which flows throughout the body and along channels. When Qi and blood are stagnant, they cause pain. By directly burning moxa in the shape of a small cone, the moxa opens the pours and allows the release of heat. This is great for resolving inflammation and is extremely effective at reducing swelling.
What is direct moxibustion?
Direct moxibustion is burning moxa directly on the skin. Moxa can be shaped into pieces, the size of a small grain of rice, or into a small cone, roughly the size of an almond. A small amount of special burn cream is applied to the skin allowing the moxa to stick and help protect the skin. The moxa is then ignited with a piece of incense and then extinguished or promptly removed before reaching the skin.
What is indirect moxibustion?
Indirect moxibustion is the burning of moxa near the skin. Moxa can be made into a pole, approximately the size of a cigar. The pole is ignited, and the acupuncturist will move it above certain areas of the skin and in specific manners depending on the desired therapeutic effect. Moxa can be rolled into small balls or special pre-made cones can be used and placed on the end of needles. An acupuncturist will place a moxa guard around the needle and against the skin at certain locations to protect the skin prior to lighting the moxa on the end of the needles. Once the moxa is done burning, the moxa is then removed, and the needle is allowed to cool prior to removing it.
Who is qualified to use moxibustion?
Properly trained acupuncturists are qualified to use various moxibustion techniques. They are trained how to perform each techniques, whether moxibustion should be used during treatment, which form of moxibustion should be used, and the appropriate places to utilize moxibustion.
How can I learn more about how moxibustion can help me?
You can contact us at info@karmazenacupuncture.com or 512-766-3049. You can also go to our online scheduler to book a FREE consultation and learn how moxibustion can benefit you and help with your current problem. Dr. Katrina Giangarra, D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl. O.M., can assess your condition and formulate a treatment plan specific to your needs. She can answer any questions and go over any concerns that you may have.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
How can we help YOU today?
Facial Rejuvination with Microneedling
Allow your inner beauty to shine outward even more.
Pain Relief
Don't let pain get in your way.
Hormone Imbalances
Free yourself of the hormone imbalances affecting you.
Digestive Disorders
Take control of your digestive health.
Adrenal Fatigue
Prevent the fatigue, pain, and aches of adrenal fatigue from controlling your life.
Allergy Relief, Including Cedar Fever
Don't let your allergies prevent you from enjoying the great outdoors.
Anxiety & Depression
Don't allow your emotional pain hold you back any longer.
Arthritis
Be active and go about your day without constant joint pain.
Back Pain
Resolve your pain and improve your mobility naturally.
Bell's Palsy
Find your smile again.
Bursitis
Regain joint mobility and move without pain.
Carpal Tunnel
Be able to use your wrists without constant pain.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Take control of the pain, numbeness, & tingling caused by cervical radiculopathy.
Elbow Pain, Including, Tennis Elbow & Golfer's Elbow
Lose the pain while regaining your swing with natural treatments.
Endometriosis
Don't allow the pain of endometriosis keep you from time with your family and friends.
Facial Rejuvination with Microneedling
Allow your inner beauty to shine outward even more.
Fertility
Get the family you always dreamed about having one day.
Fibroids
The pain and heavy menstruation due to your uterine fibroids don't have to interfere with enjoying time with family and friends.
Fibromyalgia
Live without constant pain and enjoy your day
Frozen Shoulder
Regain full range of motion without pain, naturally.
Gallbladder Symptoms
Don't allow gallbladder symptoms to impact your daily life.
GERD
Don't let the pain and discomfort of GERD disrupt your day.
Gout
Don't be stuck living with the pain and swelling due to gout.
Hip Pain
Achieve all natural relief from hip pain.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Alleviate your digestive problems naturally.
Immune Support
Boost your immune system naturally and effectively, so you don't get sick or recover quicker if you already are sick.
Insomnia
Be able to fall asleep and stay asleep with all natural remedies.
IT Band Syndrome
Be more active without IT band pain stopping you.
Joint Pain
Don't let joint pain keep you from enjoying the activities that you love.
Knee Pain
Improve your mobility while alleviating your pain.
Lymphedema
Regain mobility and and don't get weighed down by fluid retention.
Microneedling & Nanoneedling
Allow your inner beauty to shine outward even more.
Migraine Headaches
Reduce the severity & frequency of migraines naturally.
Muscle Spasms
Be able to go about your day withou the pain of muscle spasms getting in your way.
Neck Pain
Don't allow neck pain to prevent you from enjoying the things that you love.
Neuropathy
Enjoy your day without burning pain, numbness, and tingling.
PCOS
Don't let the problems of PCOS impact your life.
Perimenopausal & Menopausal Symptoms
Prevent hot flashes and night sweats from keeping you up at night.
Pinched Nerve
Don't allow the pain of nerve impingement keep you from enjoying the activities that you love.
Plantar Fasciitis
Be able to stand up without the fear of shooting pain in your foot.
PMS
Your pain, mood swings, and fatigue can be controlled naturally each month.
Quit Smoking
Take charge of your life and don't allow withdrawal symptoms to control you.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Don't let restless legs prevent you from being able to sleep.
Rosacae
Allow your true complexion to shine through.
Sciatica
Don't let sciatic pain control your life with all natural treatments.
Shingles Nerve Pain
Don't continue to suffer in constant pain and sensitivity due to shingles.
Stroke Recovery
Regain your life back from the effects of your stroke.
Tendinitis
Alleviate your pain, while improving your mobility.
TMJ
Alleviate the pain and discomfort of your TMJ disorder naturally.
Vertigo
Don't let the world continue to feel like it's spinning around you.
Weight Loss
Increase your energy and boost your metabolism.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
THIS STUFF WORKS.
Our unique blend of holistic medical therapies gets ALL your body's healing resources going in the same direction...
Acupuncture
Calms stress, clears neuroendocrine pathways, affects neurotransmitters, and promotes circulation.
Cupping
Promotes microcirculation, relieves tension, and helps release toxins.
Herbal Therapy
Transmits nature’s intelligence to heal damaged cells and tissues.
Gua Sha
Breaks up scar tissue and connective tissue, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation.
Moxibustion
Promotes circulation, alleviates tension, and helps reduce inflammation and swelling.
Relaxation & Stress Reduction Focus on calming the mind and emotions to maximize your body’s healing resources.
Red Light Therapy (LED Light Therapy)
Uses light to boost skin rejuvenation and address specific skin concerns.
Serums for Microneedling & Nanoneedling
Serums complement microneedling & nanoneedlingby delivering targeted ingredients to promote skin rejuvenation and improve its appearance.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF IS PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO
You'll always feel welcome and cared for here.
Dr. Katrina Giangarra, DACM, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.
Licensed Acupuncturist, Founder, & Clinic Director
Isabella (aka Izzy, aka Fluff Nugget) Giangarra
3rd Unofficial Mascot
Calliope (aka Callie) Giangarra
Unofficial Mascot
Esme (aka Ezzy or Ezzers) Giangarra
2nd Unofficial Mascot
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Located in Spicewood
Karma Zen Acupuncture is located in a serene spot off of Highway-71 in the Bee Creek Business Park as part of the Bee Creek Clinic. Whether you live locally in Spicewood or in the surrounding areas of Briarcliff, Marble Falls, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Austin, or Dripping Springs, we are happy to provide a peaceful and relaxing environment as we help you on your path to better health. The location is a hidden gem as it’s great for those locally, not wanting to travel far, and for those wanting to escape from the more chaotic and busier areas.
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).