Moxa Moxabustion (Moxa), is a form of fire heat treatment that stimulates specific acupuncture points of the body. The term is derived from the Japanese "mogusa" meaning herb (mugwort) and the Latin "bustion" meaning burning. It is one of the oldest forms of Oriental Medicine, going back some 3,000 years. Heat is created by burning moxa, derived from mugwort leaves, a member of the chrysanthemum family, and applying it either directly or indirectly to the skin Direct moxibustion is applied by using the fingers to roll a small amount of moxa into the size of a sesame seed or half of a grain of rice. This piece is then placed on the skin at an acupuncture point and burned with a special type of incense stick. The result is an intense, penetrating heat that stimulates the acupuncture point involved. Although this form of moxabustion originates from China, today it more commonly used in Japan or in Japanese-style trained practitioners. Currently, the more popular form of moxibustion in many countries including China is the indirect form, because there is a much lower risk of burning the skin. In indirect moxibustion, a practitioner lights one end of a moxa stick, which resembles a cigar, and holds it an inch or two away from the skin, usually around the inserted needles to bring mild warmth to the area without burning, until the skin becomes slightly red. The intensity of the heat is adjusted according to the patient’s condition and comfort. Indirect moxa is considered to induce a gradual localized vasodilatation response. In addition to increasing the local blood flow, skillful indirect moxibustion is extremely comforting and can create a deep relaxation response.