Moxibustion, commonly shortened to being called moxa, is the use of an herb called Artemesia Vulgaris or commonly, mugwort, which is burned over particular areas or specific acupuncture points. Moxa has a warming, invigorating quality and is generally used to treat conditions of weakness by bringing extra energy into the acupuncture points and channels, or to expel cold and damp pathogens from the channels.
Loose moxa is commonly rolled into a ball and placed over a piece of fresh ginger, onto a specific area of the body or acupuncture point. Ginger adds to the warming energy of the moxa and serves as a barrier between the moxa and skin. Moxa also comes in tightly rolled sticks which can be held directly over acupuncture points or channels.