Boosting Immunity with Moxibustion: How to Support Your Health Naturally

As the seasons change, our immune systems often face additional challenges. Cold weather, increased stress, and seasonal allergies can leave us feeling run down and more susceptible to illness. Fortunately, moxibustion, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a natural way to boost immunity and support overall health.

In this blog, we’ll explore how moxa therapy can help strengthen the immune system, its principles in TCM, and supporting evidence from modern research.

What Is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort (moxa) near specific acupuncture points on the body. The warmth generated by burning moxa stimulates circulation, enhances the flow of qi (energy), and supports the body’s natural defenses.

In TCM, immunity is linked to the concept of wei qi, the protective energy that guards the body against external pathogens. Moxibustion is believed to strengthen wei qi, making the body more resilient to illness and environmental stressors.

How Moxibustion Boosts Immunity

1. Improving Circulation and Lymphatic Flow:

The warmth from moxa therapy enhances blood circulation and helps the lymphatic system function more effectively, ensuring immune cells can travel quickly to fight infections.

2. Reducing Stress:

Chronic stress weakens the immune system. Moxa therapy’s relaxing heat calms the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting balance.

3. Warming the Body:

In TCM, a cold body is more vulnerable to illness. Moxibustion warms key acupuncture points, reducing an internal cold and creating a healthier internal environment.

4. Stimulating Key Acupuncture Points:

• ST 36 (Zusanli): Enhances digestive health and boosts overall vitality.
• CV 4 (Guanyuan): Nourishes energy reserves and strengthens immunity.
• DU 14 (Dazhui): Clears pathogens and boosts the body’s defenses.

Seasonal Immunity: Why It Matters

During seasonal changes, the immune system works harder to adapt to shifts in temperature, humidity, and allergens. Moxibustion supports this transition by:

• Increasing energy during colder months.
• Enhancing lung and digestive function, key systems for processing environmental changes.
• Preventing cold, flu, and other seasonal illnesses by bolstering the body's defenses.

Research Supporting Moxibustion for Immunity

Moxibustion, an integral part of TCM, has shown promise in supporting immune function and respiratory health. Recent studies have explored its application in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, shedding light on its mechanisms and potential benefits.

Enhancing Immune Function:
A study by Xu, Pan, and Jia (2020) highlighted the role of moxibustion in regulating the immune system. It concluded that moxibustion could enhance the body’s natural defenses by stimulating specific acupoints, promoting the flow of Qi, and improving blood circulation. The researchers noted that this effect may help balance the immune response, making the body more resilient to infections.

Supporting Respiratory Health:
Ren et al. (2022) reviewed the use of moxibustion as part of supportive care for COVID-19 patients. The findings suggested that moxibustion when used alongside conventional treatments, could alleviate respiratory symptoms such as cough and fatigue. It was also noted to improve lung function and reduce inflammation, supporting faster recovery.

Both studies recognized moxibustion’s potential as a preventive and therapeutic tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moxibustion not only serves as a preventive measure but also complements broader self-care practices. Its ability to enhance circulation, reduce stress, and promote balance makes it an effective tool for staying healthy, particularly during times of heightened respiratory risk.

How to Use Moxibustion for Immunity

1. Targeting Acupuncture Points:

Focus on key points like ST 36, CV 4, and DU 14 for immune-boosting effects.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare a moxa stick or electric moxa device.
2. Light the moxa stick or set the device to a comfortable heat level.
3. Hold it 2–3 cm away from the skin, moving it in circular motions over the point for 5–10 minutes.
4. Perform 2–3 sessions per week for maintenance or daily during cold seasons.

2. Create a Relaxing Environment:

• Choose a quiet, warm space.
• Incorporate deep breathing or meditation to enhance the calming effects.

Safety Tips for Moxibustion

• Always use moxa therapy under guidance if you are new to it.
• Avoid using moxibustion on open wounds or irritated skin.
• Consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant or have pre-existing health conditions.

Conclusion: A Natural Path to Resilience

Moxibustion is a time-tested practice that bridges the wisdom of TCM with modern wellness needs. By stimulating key acupuncture points and promoting balance, it provides a natural way to boost immunity, especially during seasonal changes. Whether used as a standalone therapy or alongside other self-care practices, moxibustion can help you stay strong and healthy all year round.

Ready to try moxibustion? Explore our collections and discover how they can fit seamlessly into your health routine.

References

• Xu, J., Pan, L., & Jia, C. (2020). Exploration on the feasibility of moxibustion in prevention and treatment of COVID-19 from the perspective of modern medical mechanism. World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion, 30(2), 81–84. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wjam.2020.06.001
• Ren, M., Liu, Y., Ni, X., Kuang, Z., Luo, X., Zhang, Y., Li, H., & Chen, Y. (2022). The role of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of patients with COVID-19: A scoping review. Integrative Medicine Research, 11(4), Article 100886. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imr.2022.100886