Moxibustion

Moxibustion uses a special warm herb called moxa to address problems like muscle tension, low energy, and menstrual pain. At Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine in Portland, Oregon, Stefani Hayes, ND, LAc, and the team offer moxibustion as part of a personalized naturopathic medicine treatment plan. They may use it alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, or cupping to help patients feel more balanced, grounded, and supported. Call Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine to learn more about moxibustion or request an appointment online today.

What is moxibustion?

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that uses the gentle warmth of burning mugwort (moxa) near specific acupuncture points. Your practitioner doesn’t burn the skin; instead, they use controlled heat to warm targeted areas of the body.

Many patients experience moxibustion as soothing, grounding, and deeply relaxing. Practitioners often use it to support circulation, ease tension, encourage warmth in the body, and complement acupuncture or herbal care.

Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine uses moxibustion thoughtfully. The team considers your symptoms, constitution, comfort level, health history, and aims before recommending it as part of your care plan.

What happens during moxibustion?

During moxibustion, your practitioner holds or places moxa near selected points on your body. You may feel gentle warmth, but treatment should never feel painfully hot.

Your practitioner checks in with you throughout the session. If the sensation feels too strong, if the smell bothers you, or if you feel unsure, they adjust the treatment or choose another approach.

The team cares deeply about consent, comfort, and safety. If you’ve experienced medical trauma, feel nervous about heat, or don’t like certain sensations, your practitioner works with you to support your body without adding stress.

What can moxibustion treat?

Moxibustion may help patients who feel cold, depleted, tense, sluggish, or out of balance. Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine recommends moxibustion for concerns like:

• Menstrual discomfort
• Fertility support
• Digestive symptoms
• Muscle tension
• Stress and nervous system overload
• Low energy
• Postpartum recovery
• General wellness support

Your practitioner may combine moxibustion with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, Maya abdominal therapy, and/or other naturopathic techniques. If another therapy better fits your body or goals, they talk through your options.

Is moxibustion right for everyone?

Moxibustion isn’t a good fit for everyone or every health concern. Your practitioner asks about your medical history, skin sensitivity, heat tolerance, pregnancy status, medications, and current symptoms before recommending care.

Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine doesn’t believe there’s only one correct path to healing. The team has many tools and adapts your plan when something doesn’t feel right or doesn’t fit your preferences.

Moxibustion works best when it feels safe, supportive, and specific to you. Call Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine or use the online booking tool to arrange your first session today.