Drawback of moxibustion

Moxibustion has some potential drawbacks that should be considered. Firstly, like cigarette smoking, moxibustion produces smoke, which can be an irritant for people with respiratory issues. Additionally, the distinct odor of moxa can be challenging for some people, with some describing it as a plant fragrance and others as similar to marijuana. To minimize the odor, (1) it’s recommended to use a well-ventilated room or a bathroom with a ventilation fan, (2) wear easily washable clothes, (3) cover your hair with a bathing cap (if necessary), (4) wear mask to minimize inhale of moxa smoke, and (5) take a bath after treatment (waiting for at least 30 minutes).

While smokeless moxa varieties are available, some experts believe that they are less effective than traditional moxa. This is because the smoke produced by burning moxa is believed to contain beneficial trace elements and have a calming effect on the nervous system, making it an essential therapeutic element in moxibustion. During the production of smokeless moxa, some of the essential oils from the moxa are burned away, which may result in a less effective product compared to regular moxa sticks. Therefore, many practitioners still prefer the use of traditional moxa sticks for optimal therapeutic benefits.