Is it better to perform moxibustion in the morning or evening? Can it be done immediately when symptoms arise? Can you take a bath right after moxibustion?

Is it better to perform moxibustion in the morning or evening? Can it be done immediately when symptoms arise? Can you take a bath right after moxibustion?
As a beginner, you might feel confused by these questions. Reading the following precautions will help you achieve twice the results with half the effort and ensure a successful first moxibustion experience.

Before Moxibustion

• Choose the right time: It is generally recommended to perform moxibustion during the day. In most cases, it is not suitable to do moxibustion at night, though some conditions, such as insomnia, may require flexibility and be done before bedtime.
• Avoid moxibustion on an empty stomach or immediately after a meal.
• Do not perform moxibustion when feeling extreme anger, joy, or sadness.
• Refrain from moxibustion during harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or thunderstorms.
• If performing moxibustion on the Shenque (navel) acupoint, clean the area beforehand using a cotton swab dipped in warm water.

During Moxibustion

• Stay focused: The person performing moxibustion should remain calm and avoid unrelated conversations or distractions like using a phone or reading. Pay attention to prevent the moxa stick or cone from moving off the targeted acupoint to avoid injury and wasted time.
• Create a pleasant environment: The patient should maintain a relaxed mood and may listen to soothing music, such as traditional guqin melodies.
• Ensure a comfortable setting: The environment should be quiet, free from interruptions, and suitable for moxibustion.
• Ensure proper posture and accuracy: The body position should be natural and comfortable, suitable for moxibustion, and the targeted acupoints must be accurate for optimal results.
• Pay attention to smoke: Manage the smoke generated during the process.
• Maintain proper temperature regulation: Keep the exposed body parts warm during winter and avoid overheating in summer. Adjust the indoor temperature as needed, and ensure proper ventilation by using fans or opening windows.
• Fire safety: Modern clothing, often made of synthetic or feathered materials, is highly flammable. Be extra cautious to prevent falling sparks, especially when using moxa cones. Extinguish moxa sticks by placing them in an iron box.
• Follow a proper sequence: If treating multiple and dispersed acupoints, follow the order of back first, then chest and abdomen, then head, and finally limbs.
• Prevent moxibustion fainting: Although rare, symptoms of moxibustion fainting include dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, pale complexion, heart palpitations, and sweating, which could lead to fainting. If this occurs, stop immediately and have the person lie down to rest and drink warm water.
• Allow natural reactions: Moxibustion on the abdomen may trigger intestinal movements or flatulence. The patient should not feel embarrassed and let it happen naturally.

After Moxibustion

• Rest for 15 minutes and keep warm.
• Avoid bathing for 4 hours after moxibustion.
• Consume plain foods: Eat white porridge and drink warm water. Avoid green tea and opt for mugwort tea instead.
• Prevent infection: For suppurative moxibustion or burns caused by improper application, where blisters or ulcers form, disinfect the area with iodine.
• Follow specific lifestyle adjustments: During moxibustion therapy, particularly for those with chronic conditions, it is advised to sleep alone and abstain from sexual activity.
• Maintain a regular routine: Eat breakfast on time, and ensure you go to bed before 11 PM.
• Dietary restrictions: Avoid spicy, stimulating foods. Do not overeat or starve, maintain a positive mood, and follow a vegetarian diet when possible.