Moxibustion can be categorized as either “direct” or “indirect.” In both cases, an herb, usually dried mugwort, is burned on or near an acupressure point relating to a particular symptom.

With the indirect method, the flame does not make contact with the skin. The mugwort may be rolled into a densely packed cylinder, or a “moxa stick.” The stick is then lit and held briefly a few millimeters above the acupressure point.

Moxibustion can also be used in conjunction with acupuncture needles, in which case a tuft of mugwort is put on the needle and burned.

You can purchase moxa sticks in Oriental medical clinics or Chinese herbal stores and use them very easily. Licensed acupuncturists usually practice moxibustion in conjunction with needles.

A third indirect method is to burn the mugwort with a barrier between the mugwort and the skin. The barrier can be any non-reactive material, even something organic, such as a thin slice of ginger, garlic, or salt, which may add natural medicinal benefits.

A fourth indirect method is lighting a larger piece of mugwort and then snuffing it out with a damp cloth or picking it oft with tweezers when it gets too hot and the heat is close to the skin.