Is Moxibustion Smoke Harmful?

Moxibustion is a common method used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating illnesses and promoting wellness. During the pandemic, many people have also turned to moxibustion to purify indoor air. A common question arises: Is moxibustion smoke harmful?

Is Moxibustion Smoke Harmful?

Smoke from any burning substance contains gases like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, and moxibustion smoke is no exception. While many online sources tout various benefits of moxibustion smoke—and these positive effects do exist—we should also acknowledge its potential drawbacks. If harmful substances are present in moxibustion smoke, they are likely aldehydes and phenolic compounds produced when the moxibustion stick burns. However, if the amount inhaled is not significant, it usually does not cause noticeable effects.

Benefits of Moxibustion Smoke

The essence of moxibustion is an external stimulation, primarily relying on two effects: “heat” and “smoke”. Heat comes from the burning moxibustion stick, while smoke originates from the essential oils within the smoke. Thus, moxibustion smoke is an indispensable part of moxibustion.

1. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory

Moxibustion smoke contains mugwort essential oil, which possesses strong antibacterial and disinfectant properties, capable of inhibiting and killing various bacteria and viruses. Therefore, moxibustion can help prevent colds, purify the air, and is particularly beneficial for respiratory and skin issues. Ancient beliefs that mugwort could “ward off evil spirits” essentially correspond to modern sterilization. Historical customs included burning mugwort to prevent influenza and epidemics. Even today, hanging mugwort at doorways during the Dragon Boat Festival reflects its insect-repelling and sterilizing properties.

2. Calming the Mind

Moderate mugwort smoke carries a distinctive aroma that helps stabilize emotions and promote sleep. Many people feel relaxed upon smelling mugwort smoke precisely because its unique scent helps quiet the mind.

3. Unblocking Meridians

Mugwort smoke is essentially medicinal vapor, which shares the same properties as the herb itself. It enters the spleen, liver, and kidney meridians, helping dispel cold, remove dampness, and promote blood circulation to resolve stasis. Ancient practitioners selected mugwort leaves as moxibustion material among numerous herbs precisely for their stable medicinal properties, strong penetrating power, and minimal side effects. Moxibustion smoke is a crucial component of moxibustion therapy, primarily leveraging its essential oil vapors rather than particulate matter. During treatment, these oils penetrate the skin and acupoints through heat, synergizing with the warming effect. Thus, authentic moxibustion yields results unmatched by heat packs or smokeless moxibustion alternatives.

Potential Drawbacks of Moxibustion Smoke

Poor-quality moxibustion sticks may harm the lungs

Breathing during moxibustion inevitably involves inhaling some smoke. Small amounts are generally harmless, but we should avoid intentionally inhaling large quantities. After all, the lungs have self-protective mechanisms, and excessive exposure can be detrimental. Besides essential oils, moxibustion smoke also contains carbon monoxide and fine particulate matter. Particularly with some portable moxibustion devices or low-quality moxibustion sticks, their incomplete combustion may produce unpleasant odors. Occasional use is generally fine, but prolonged exposure warrants caution. Individuals with a tendency toward heatiness or inflammation may experience symptoms like dizziness, dry mouth, or internal heat.

Traditionally, moxibustion was performed in spacious rooms or courtyards where smoke could disperse easily. Today, we often practice in enclosed buildings where smoke lingers. Therefore, it’s advisable to open windows for ventilation during treatment while avoiding direct drafts, cold, or dampness. If the smoke seems too heavy, wear a mask during moxibustion. If concerned about affecting family members at home, perform moxibustion in the kitchen with the range hood running to help disperse smoke. However, note that a moderate amount of moxibustion smoke is an essential part of the treatment.

Smelling Moxibustion Smoke, Identifying Constitution

There’s no need to dislike the moxibustion smoke. As the saying goes, “No smoke, no moxibustion; no fire, no moxibustion. Different individuals may react differently to the scent of moxibustion smoke, which can reveal constitutional characteristics:

1. Blood Stasis Constitution: May experience headaches upon smelling moxibustion smoke
2. Qi Deficiency Constitution: May feel drowsy upon smelling moxibustion smoke
3. Excessive Heart Fire: May feel irritable upon smelling moxibustion smoke
4. Weak Spleen and Stomach: May feel nauseous upon smelling moxibustion smoke
5. Liver dysfunction: May experience eye discomfort or tearing
6. Lung issues: May trigger coughing, runny nose, or sneezing
7. Healthy individuals often find mugwort smoke relaxing and sleep-inducing due to its calming effects

Many enjoy moxibustion but dislike the inconvenience of smoke. We can minimize smoke through methods like choosing high-quality moxibustion sticks, using smoke extraction equipment, or selecting appropriate moxibustion tools.

Summary

So, is moxibustion smoke harmful? Many moxibustion enthusiasts often ask this question. Overall, moxibustion smoke has both benefits and drawbacks, requiring reasonable precautions. No medical or health method is perfect, and moxibustion is no exception. Just as drinking too quickly can cause choking, or eating too much can lead to indigestion, we shouldn’t stop drinking water or eating just because of these risks.

We should approach moxibustion rationally—utilizing its benefits while avoiding its drawbacks. This mindset defines a responsible practitioner. If we must pinpoint issues with moxibustion smoke, they primarily stem from the quality of the moxibustion sticks.

Opting for high-quality sticks minimizes harm, while ensuring proper ventilation and smoke extraction further mitigates risks. Using inferior moxibustion sticks not only produces choking smoke but may also negatively burden the body.

Moxibustion smoke itself is not inherently problematic; the key lies in how we select our moxibustion sticks. When used properly, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Isn’t life all about constantly weighing pros and cons as we move forward?

Therefore, if you wish to practice moxibustion at home but find the smoke bothersome, consider using aged moxibustion sticks that have been stored longer and contain higher-purity moxibustion wool. These sticks release more tar and produce relatively less smoke, making them easier to tolerate.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner before starting any new therapy.