Moxibustion in Los Angeles
Gentle Warmth for Healing and Balance
Moxibustion (often called moxa) is a traditional therapy that uses dried mugwort to deliver soothing, penetrating warmth to specific acupuncture points and areas of the body. At Golden Mean Acupuncture in Los Angeles, moxibustion is used as an adjunctive technique — especially helpful for conditions that benefit from warmth, improved circulation, and nervous system support.
We use Japanese-grade moxa (stick and stick-on forms) for a clean, consistent, and comfortable treatment experience.
What Is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion involves warming the body with smoldering mugwort held near the skin (or placed safely on a point with an insulated base). The goal is to support circulation, ease pain, and restore balance — especially when symptoms feel worse with cold or improve with warmth.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, moxa helps warm and activate Qi and Blood and is often used when there are signs of cold, stagnation, or deficiency.
What Moxibustion Can Help With
Moxibustion is commonly used to support:
Menstrual cramps and cycle-related discomfort
Labor preparation (typically starting around 36–37 weeks, when appropriate)
Pain patterns that worsen with cold (lower back pain, joint stiffness, certain arthritis patterns)
Circulation support and muscle tension
Seasonal support during cooler months for people who tend to run cold or feel depleted
Moxa is always used selectively — only when it fits your diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment goals.
Types of Moxibustion We Use
Stick Moxa (Indirect Moxibustion)
A moxa stick is held a safe distance from the skin and moved slowly over specific areas until you feel a deep, comfortable warmth. This method is gentle, controlled, and relaxing.
Stick-On Moxa
Small, insulated moxa pieces are applied to specific acupuncture points and lit to deliver steady warmth. They’re helpful for targeted areas and can be used alongside acupuncture when appropriate.
What to Expect During Treatment
Moxibustion is usually included as part of a full acupuncture session. If it’s appropriate for you, your practitioner will explain where it’s being used and why.
You’ll feel warmth building gradually — it should feel comforting, never painful or too hot. Most people find it deeply calming.
After treatment, you may notice:
a mild pink or warm look to the skin (temporary)
relaxation, improved comfort, or a gentle sense of warmth that lingers
If you have any respiratory sensitivity, let us know — we can adjust technique as needed.
Safety and Quality
Moxibustion is very safe when performed by a trained practitioner. We use Japanese-grade moxa for consistent heat and minimal smoke. Techniques are applied carefully, and heat levels are monitored continuously for comfort.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re curious whether moxibustion would be helpful for your symptoms, we can assess it during your visit and incorporate it when appropriate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does moxibustion hurt?
No — it should feel warm and relaxing. If it ever feels too hot, we adjust immediately.
Is moxibustion safe during pregnancy?
It can be, when used appropriately and performed by a trained practitioner. We only use pregnancy-safe approaches and timing.
Can I do moxibustion at home?
Some people do, but only with proper guidance. Safety matters (heat + fire risk), so we don’t recommend trying it without instruction.