Drawback of Moxibution
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.