How to Use Moxibustion Sticks at Home
I am often asked by clients whether they can perform moxibustion at home by themselves and how to use moxibustion sticks at home.
The answer is yes. Most of the time, I perform moxibustion on myself, although I sometimes do it with my family. Having someone with you can certainly make the process easier and more motivating. However, many times you may not find the right person or the right time, so you end up waiting or postponing it. But if you delay too long, the treatment becomes less effective. It’s just like exercise or moxibustion — consistency is key.
Your body and your pain belong to you. Good health depends on yourself, not on others. Taking responsibility for your own well-being is the best way to maintain balance and vitality.
Today, I want to share with you how to use moxa sticks safely and effectively at home. There are many ways to use moxibustion, but here are four that I commonly use:
- The Spinning Moxibustion
- Moxa Box Moxibustion
- Carried-on moxibustion
- Futon Moxibustion
How to Use Moxibustion Sticks at Home ：
The Spinning Moxibustion
Rotating moxibustion with a moxa stick is a traditional moxibustion technique known for its short duration and effective results. I often perform rotating moxibustion on areas such as the ears, face, and legs. The gentle warmth feels very comfortable—especially around the ears.
I once had a client who regularly applied moxibustion to her ears, and her tinnitus significantly improved. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the ears are connected to the kidneys, and stimulating the ears with moxibustion can help relieve tinnitus by replenishing qi and blood and strengthening kidney energy.
Handheld rotating moxibustion can be performed by oneself, but it has some drawbacks. It requires focused attention during the process, and the smoke can be quite strong. Therefore, it is recommended to perform it on a balcony or outdoors for better ventilation.
How to Use Moxibustion Sticks at Home ：
Moxa Box Moxibustion
I call the wooden moxa box “enjoyable moxibustion.” Simply put the moxa stick into the box, lie down on the bed, and place the box on your body. The gentle warmth feels very soothing and comfortable.
This method works especially well for abdominal moxibustion, which can be easily done by oneself. However, moxibustion on the back is more difficult to perform alone. After years of practice, I’ve developed a few personal techniques. In summer, I wear loose old clothes and place the moxa box directly on my back—it’s surprisingly convenient. (The picture below shows how it looks.)
This method can be used to apply moxibustion wherever you feel discomfort. It feels deeply relaxing, especially for neck and lower back pain. Every time I finish a session, I feel unbelievably relieved and healed—a truly comforting experience.
However, one drawback is that it produces a relatively strong smell of smoke, so it’s best to use it in a well-ventilated area, such as near a window, balcony, or outdoors.
How to Use Moxibustion Sticks at Home ：
Carried-on moxibustion
Moxibustion is truly a wonderful invention. When the moxa sticks are lit and placed in a cloth cover, you can wear them on your body and enjoy moxibustion while reading a book or doing some housework—very convenient.
I have many moxibustion cloth covers, which can be used from head to toe. I can apply moxibustion to any area of discomfort. Whenever I feel discomfort in my neck, lower back, or legs, I apply moxibustion to that area. Sometimes I do whole-body moxibustion, and other times I focus on localized areas. In short, wherever my body feels uncomfortable, I promptly use moxibustion. This method is very easy to perform by oneself, making it convenient for maintaining health and easier to stick to a regular routine.
Some people may question its effectiveness, but I have practiced moxibustion for many years myself. Personally, I feel that after each session, stiffness and pain are immediately relieved, and my body feels comfortably restored.
How to Use Moxibustion Sticks at Home ：
Futon Moxibustion
This is a popular form of moxibustion for many of my friends who practice at home, and it’s a great companion for my daily reading. Sitting moxibustion offers multiple benefits; it not only warms the uterus and regulates menstruation, which is excellent for the reproductive system, but also improves constipation. I sit every day and feel especially comfortable.
Many friends call this a “lazy” moxibustion method because the moxa is simply placed in the moxa burner, making it very simple and easy to use.
If I had to mention a drawback, it would be the limited treatment area. While some sources say you can treat the waist and legs, I have primarily used it just for sitting moxibustion.
Suggestions for Home Moxibustion
- For home moxibustion, choose some of the better-quality moxa sticks on the market.
- You can use moxa boxes or hand-held methods (hanging moxibustion). Choose the right tool based on the acupoint you are treating.
- Carefully manage the angle and distance between the moxa stick and your body. Avoid getting too close or too hot; the sensation should be comfortably warm.
- Moxibustion is best done in the morning, with each point treated for about 15–20 minutes.
- During moxibustion, pay attention to ventilation to avoid inhaling too much smoke.
- While moxibustion is in progress, stay focused. Avoid doing other things and tune into your body’s sensations.
Over the years, moxibustion has become my body’s most powerful self-care tool. I use it wherever I feel discomfort—for knee pain, lumbago, or cervical spondylosis. It helps my body regulate itself in a timely way, preventing chronic issues from building up. It’s truly a wonderful method; self-help moxibustion is so effective, you often don’t need to ask for help!
