Why Does moxibustion Cause “Internal Heat”? My Personal Guide to Smart Adjustments
Many ask me: “Why do I get dry mouth/sore throat/acne after moxibustion?” (Known as “internal heat” in TCM). After 10 years of practice, I’ve discovered the secret—it’s all about targeting the right spots!
【Case Study: The Cold Yet Burning Paradox】
A common dilemma: “I feel cold overall, but moxibustion makes me overheat!” This “hot top/cold bottom” condition (common in 35+ individuals) often stems from a mid-body blockage—excess waist/abdominal fat obstructing energy flow. The solution? Focus on unclogging this central zone (“waist energy belt”) through moxibustion to:
Boost circulation
Eliminate damp-cold
Naturally reshape your midside (bonus!)
【My Personal Journey】
As someone with this “steaming head/freezing toes” constitution, I used to prioritize abdominal moxibustion:
Stopped chronic diarrhea
Flattened stubborn belly fat
But recently noticed irritability when over-treating this area. Now my routine is:
Primary zones: Neck/shoulders/back/lower back (ideal for cold-sensitive constitutions)
Support areas: Waist sides/calves/feet
This balanced approach eliminated overheating reactions.
【Beginner’s Toolkit】
Golden rule: Treat where it hurts (blockages demand attention)
Body wisdom: Different spots create different responses
Burning sensation? Pause (indicates energy congestion)
Comfortable warmth? Keep going
Safest bet: Start with limbs (hands/feet contain full-body reflex zones)
Unexpected benefit: My moxibustion focus improved concentration skills!
【Pro Tips】
✓ Don’t quit if overheating occurs—it’s your body communicating!
✓ Adjust positions/duration (start with 15-minute sessions)
✓ Trust physical feedback over textbook theories
✓ Completely natural with zero side effects—patience is key
I’m still exploring my ideal routine. Remember: Moxibustion is an evolving “heat treasure hunt” with your body. Finding those comforting “energy hotspots” means you’re winning!
