Moxibustion is frequently used during an acupuncture treatment. Moxibustion is the burning or smouldering of a Chinese herb called moxa, sometimes known as mugwort.

Small rolls of moxa can be placed on the end of an acupuncture needle, once lit the heat travels down the needle into the acupuncture channel. This is very useful if the patient is generally a cold person, or if cold has invaded the body.

Moxa can also be applied using a moxa box. Moxa is burned on a metal grid inside the box and the heat penetrates the body over a large area.

Another common application is sparrow pecking. A stick of moxa is lit at one end and moved up and down over an acupuncture point, or a larger area. This will warm the acupuncture channel and also helps to relax muscles which maybe in spasm.