22 Powerful Post-Moxibustion Reactions You Should Know

Have you ever experienced body heat, fatigue, or itchy skin after moxibustion? Don’t worry, this is likely a sign that your body is adjusting to the change.

Moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medical treatment, promotes the flow of qi and blood by applying heat to specific points to regulate the body’s functions. During the process, a variety of reactions may occur, which we call “detoxification reactions”. Read these 22 Powerful Post-Moxibustion Reactions to understand how the body is quietly getting better.

Ⅰ. Soreness, Numbness, Swelling, Pain

These sensations after moxibustion are often external manifestations of the state of Qi and blood in the body:

• Soreness indicates a deficiency of Qi and blood.
• Numbness suggests poor circulation of Qi and blood.
• Swelling may result from the accumulation of dampness or toxins in the body.
• Pain usually indicates blood stasis, reflecting the principle that “where there is no free flow, there is pain.”

Ⅱ.After Moxibustion: ‘Fire’ Reactions

If you are prone to internal fire, such as having a hot constitution, yin deficiency, prolonged moxibustion, or inappropriate acupuncture point selection, discomfort may occur. It is recommended that during the next moxibustion session, points such as Yongquan (KI1), Zusanli (ST36), and Taixi (KI3) be selected to help guide the fire downward and restore balance.

Ⅲ.Burning Sensation

In addition to being related to the quality of moxa, a burning sensation often indicates more severe Qi and blood blockage at the site of moxibustion, making it difficult for the heat to penetrate. It is recommended to gently pat the local area before moxibustion to promote Qi and blood circulation, and to consider using rotary moxibustion techniques.

Ⅳ.Cold Sweat

Cold sweat represents the body’s process of expelling dampness and cold. It is more likely to occur in individuals with a heavy accumulation of cold and dampness. Continued moxibustion may help to completely eliminate the cold.

Ⅴ.Itchy skin

Itching may occur for several reasons:

• the expulsion of external wind-evil from the body surface;
• the improved circulation of Qi and blood as blockages are being resolved;
• The manifestation of dampness leading to rashes on the skin.

An appropriate increase in the amount of moxibustion, along with continuous application, may help improve these symptoms.

Ⅵ.Abnormal Thirst

In individuals who are prone to thirst, the symptom may become more pronounced after moxibustion. This is considered a normal phenomenon. It is recommended to drink warm water, eat nourishing foods, or select points such as Taixi (KI3) and Quchi (LI11) for moxibustion. If the symptoms remain severe, moxibustion should be suspended.

Ⅶ.Cold Sensation in the Body

Cold sensations, such as in the knees, abdomen, or the soles of the feet, indicate that the body is expelling internal cold. Increasing the amount and frequency of moxibustion is recommended.

Ⅷ.Sweating

Cold sweat represents a heavy accumulation of cold and dampness, and moxibustion may be continued. If weakness occurs after sweating, this suggests a deficiency of vital energy. In such cases, drinking a restorative beverage, such as Pulse Drink, may help replenish energy.

Ⅸ.No Sweating

Coldness in the lower extremities or blockage of Qi and blood may result in the absence of sweating. It is recommended to increase the amount of moxibustion. Before treatment, soaking the feet or massaging the meridians may also help promote sweating.

Ⅹ.Oily Skin

Individuals with higher body fat may experience increased skin oiliness after moxibustion, which is regarded as a manifestation of detoxification. This reaction can be regulated by applying moxibustion to Gallbladder meridian points and Fenglong (ST40), which help to resolve excess fat and phlegm.

Ⅺ.Increased Flatulence

This is considered a positive sign, indicating that turbid Qi is being discharged and Zheng Qi (vital energy) is being strengthened. Moxibustion may be continued until the reaction subsides.

Ⅻ.Diarrhea

Diarrhea indicates that the intestines are expelling cold, dampness, and turbid Qi. This represents the body’s self-cleansing process. Continuing moxibustion may help further eliminate dampness.

XIII.Irregular Menstruation

After moxibustion, women may experience an enhancement of Yang Qi and a readjustment of the balance between Yin and Yang, which can lead to temporary changes in the menstrual cycle. It is advisable to maintain the original moxibustion routine.

XIV.Increased Menstrual Flow

When cold, dampness, and blood stasis are present, the strengthening of Yang Qi may initiate their discharge, which is a normal phenomenon. It is recommended to continue moxibustion to support the body’s cleansing process.

XV.No Sensation of Heat

Individuals with severe internal cold or a significant deficiency of Qi and blood may not perceive the heat during moxibustion. In such cases, it is recommended to increase the amount and frequency of moxibustion, or to use a thicker moxa stick.

XVI.Reduced Menstrual Flow

This may result from excessive moxibustion or improper point selection, which can damage Yin. In such cases, the moxibustion method or selected points should be adjusted. It may also represent the body’s self-regulation. The condition can be observed in the next cycle, or moxibustion may be applied during menstruation at Sanyinjiao (SP6) and Zusanli (ST36).

XVII.Poor Sleep

Moxibustion performed at night may affect sleep. It is recommended to shift treatment to the daytime and to select points such as Yongquan (KI1), Taixi (KI3), and Shenmen (HT7). If sleep problems persist, this may indicate Yin deficiency with internal fire. In such cases, it is advisable to suspend moxibustion temporarily and consume more nourishing foods.

XVIII.Temporary Aggravation of Symptoms

This may indicate that the body is expelling pathogenic factors. It may also suggest that the moxibustion method has been applied incorrectly. The situation should be evaluated in combination with the specific clinical response.

XIX.Tiredness and Drowsiness

The body requires additional rest during the process of Qi and blood regulation. If you feel sleepy, it is advisable to sleep more to support the body’s recovery.

XX.Increased Excretion

Sneezing and a runny nose indicate that the lungs are expelling pathogenic factors. Urination suggests that the kidneys are eliminating toxins, while bowel movements reflect the body’s detoxification process. Continuous moxibustion can help promote the discharge of toxins.

XXI.Blisters

Blisters may result from improper operation causing scalding, or they may indicate that the body is expelling excess moisture. Attention should be paid during moxibustion, which can also serve as a method to help discharge moisture.

XXII.Increased Leukorrhea

The increase in leukorrhea reflects the action of Yang Qi driving out cold-dampness from the lower Jiao, representing a process of the body expelling pathogenic factors. Moxibustion at the Dushi point on the back can help promote Yang Qi, and the use of tonics may further assist in regulation.

As a natural remedy, moxibustion not only relieves pain and improves circulation but also enhances immune function and promotes the restoration of bodily balance.

Many people feel increased energy, improved tone, and emotional stability through consistent moxibustion. If you want to delve into more Top 10 Scientific Benefits of Moxibustion, you can read the article Benefits of Moxibustion.