Japanese acupuncture has a long tradition of using moxa AND needles during every treatment. For children, this is typically easy to use stick-on moxa that can be quickly taken off so as not to expose the child to any discomfort or burn. In adults, small, rice-grain size amounts are applied directly to the skin and lit with a small incense stick. The heat is highly controlled, creating a warm, comforting sensation that penetrates into the deeper layers of tissue.

Moxa creates a “heat-shock protein response” when burned directly on the skin. A heat shock protein (HSP) response is the body’s natural reaction to heat stress, where special proteins called heat shock proteins (HSPs) are produced to protect, repair, and strengthen cells. When moxa is burned over the skin, it gently raises local temperature, stimulating the production of HSPs. These proteins activate on the cellular level to:

• Repair damaged cells by refolding misfolded proteins
• Reduce inflammation
• Boost white blood cell count to improve and maintain immunity
• Support tissue healing
• Help the body adapt to stress caused by illness and fatigue and external factors

This scientific mechanism is why moxa is not just about warmth—it actively stimulates the body’s healing and protective systems. At Bumblebee Acutherapy, our use of Japanese moxibustion focuses on this precise, targeted approach to support your entire system.