Balancing Qi and Promoting Flow
Many people in Singapore turn to moxibustion to improve circulation, ease pain, or boost their overall sense of wellbeing. For women, this traditional heat therapy is especially valued for its role in regulating the menstrual cycle, warming the womb, and supporting fertility. Although rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, moxibustion remains highly relevant today, offering a natural way to bring warmth and energy back into the body.
This guide explains what moxibustion is, how it works, and what you can expect during a session at Wo.men Matters.
Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (moxa, also known as Artemisia vulgaris) near specific acupuncture points to warm meridians, stimulate circulation, and promote healing. The herb’s therapeutic heat penetrates deeply to address cold, deficiency, and stagnation patterns.
TCM theory holds that illness often stems from invasion of external Cold or depletion of internal Yang energy (warming, active force). Moxibustion directly addresses these patterns by introducing warmth where it’s most needed. Ancient practitioners observed that warmth could restore vitality and improve blood flow, especially in people with Cold-type conditions such as chronic fatigue, menstrual pain, or poor digestion. The herb mugwort was chosen because it burns evenly, emits a steady heat, and carries an earthy aroma believed to strengthen the body’s life force, or Qi.
There are two main methods of moxibustion:
Patients often describe moxibustion as deeply soothing. You may feel a pleasant warmth that spreads gradually through the treated area. Most people find it relaxing enough to drift into a light rest during their session. Afterward, it’s common to feel calmer, energised, and physically lighter.
Moxibustion bridges the ancient understanding of energy flow with modern insights into circulation and heat therapy.
TCM explanation: warming meridians and moving Qi
In TCM theory, moxibustion works by warming the meridians—the pathways through which Qi and Blood flow—to dispel Cold, support Yang energy, and improve internal balance. It’s often prescribed when Cold stagnation causes pain, fatigue, or menstrual irregularities. The warming action encourages better circulation, helping the body’s energy and fluids flow smoothly again.
From a biomedical standpoint, moxibustion enhances local blood flow and tissue oxygenation. Studies have found that the mild heat stimulates sensory nerves and can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. The process may also have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce muscle stiffness and chronic pain.
Mugwort contains essential oils and compounds such as cineole and borneol, which are thought to promote circulation and relaxation. It burns slowly and steadily, generating a penetrating warmth that feels comfortable rather than intense. This makes it ideal for controlled, therapeutic heat that reaches deep into the body’s tissues.
The warming effect helps relax tight muscles while improving blood flow to the affected area, supporting natural pain management without medication.
Moxibustion is widely used to regulate the menstrual cycle and enhance fertility. It can help to:
Regular sessions may also assist women with irregular periods or those recovering from childbirth by replenishing energy and circulation.
Moxibustion strengthens the body’s “digestive fire” by improving Spleen and Stomach function in TCM terms. It helps the body transform food into energy more efficiently, easing symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, or poor appetite. The therapy also supports immune health, helping to prevent recurrent colds or low vitality.
Gentle warmth from moxibustion can soothe the nervous system, making it helpful for those struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, or insomnia. Patients often report sleeping better and feeling calmer after regular sessions.
Your TCM physician begins by discussing your health history, lifestyle, and current symptoms. Diagnosis may include pulse reading and tongue observation to determine whether your condition is related to Cold, Qi stagnation, or deficiency. Based on this, the physician selects acupuncture points or body areas for moxibustion.
For chronic issues, 1–2 sessions per week are often recommended at the start, with adjustments as your condition improves. After treatment, it’s best to stay warm, avoid cold drinks, and rest to allow the body to absorb the benefits. Some people experience a mild, pleasant glow or sense of lightness for several hours afterward.
Although both therapies are part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, they work through different mechanisms and are often used together for optimal results.
The fundamental difference lies in their method and primary action
Moxibustion uses heat to nourish Yang energy and dispel Cold.
Both aim to restore balance and stimulate the body’s natural healing ability but through different methods.
In many treatments, acupuncture and moxibustion complement each other. For example, during fertility or menstrual regulation therapies, acupuncture opens pathways while moxibustion provides warmth and nourishment. This combination supports both circulation and hormonal harmony.
Your TCM physician can recommend the most suitable approach—or a combination of both—based on your body type and health goals.
While safe for most, moxibustion may not be suitable for everyone. We advise caution or may avoid treatment for individuals with:
Your first TCM consultation at Wo.men Matters typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, allowing you to be fully heard.
This includes
Current symptoms, menstrual history, medications, past treatments, lifestyle factors
Your energy levels, digestion, sleep, temperature preferences, emotional state
Pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and abdominal palpation if required
At Wo.men Matters, our physicians integrate moxibustion with modern TCM understanding to help women restore warmth, balance, and vitality. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, menstrual issues, or general fatigue, every treatment plan is tailored to your body’s unique needs.
Book a consultation today to discover how moxibustion can help you feel more energised, centred, and well.
