Moxibustion, or moxa, is a traditional technique derived from Moe Kusa, a Japanese term that means “burning herb”. Moxa is obtained from the herbal plant mugwort and has been practised for thousands of years in the orient. It is supposed to cure illness by stimulating the body’s innate healing ability. Through the application of heat to acupuncture points, moxa – in the form of a cone or stick – is said to treat and prevent disease. It can be used in conjunction with acupuncture or as a sole treatment. Burning moxa radiates an earthy aroma. Many patients are invigorated by the smoke. Moxibustion is used to treat fatigue, muscular weakness, weak blood circulation, muscle tension and stiffness, rheumatism, neuralgias, menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhoea and sprained ankles.

For information on traditional medicines go to Your Guide to Saigon’s Most Popular Traditional Medicine Techniques