Increased urination after moxibustion is the body's method of expelling cold pathogens and toxins. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that the kidneys govern water metabolism. Moxibustion nourishes kidney yang, restoring bladder function to eliminate excess cold and dampness from the body. Individuals with kidney deficiency may add the Kidney Shu point to their existing moxibustion locations. Generally, persistent moxibustion for one week will alleviate frequent urination symptoms.
Reaction 2: Sensation of Heat
Moxibustion possesses strong penetrating power, characterized by its ability to transmit, conduct, and distribute heat. It follows meridian pathways and has a certain penetrating function. When moxibustion heat penetrates the corresponding affected area, abundant yang energy allows the body's relevant parts to be adjusted.
Reaction 3: Diarrhea and Abdominal Rumbling
Moxibustion elevates yang energy. As yang energy circulates internally, gastrointestinal function normalizes while accelerating intestinal peristalsis. Yang energy dispels cold pathogens from the viscera and meridians, expelling them from the body.Diarrhea indicates gastrointestinal issues. Moxibustion on the Guanyuan, Shenque, and Zuli acupoints can nourish vital energy while expelling internal dampness and cold. Drink plenty of water during diarrhea to prevent dehydration.
Reaction 4: Fever
Fever is a common symptom indicating the body's righteous energy battling pathogenic factors.Children possess pure yang constitutions and are prone to fever. As one ages, yang energy gradually weakens, leading to various sub-health conditions and disease symptoms. When yang energy rises, cold pathogens invade the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian, causing elevated body temperature. At this stage, soaking feet in mugwort-infused water to induce sweating and drinking ample water can aid heat dissipation.
Reaction 5: Sweating
Sweating after moxibustion is normal.If weakness persists the next day, it indicates excessive moxibustion duration or intensity. Individuals with severe yang deficiency typically sweat minimally during initial sessions. When vital energy recovers, normal sweating resumes to expel pathogenic factors through perspiration—signaling rising yang energy. During this phase, combine moxibustion with yin-nourishing points like Zusanli (ST36) and Taixi (KI3).Consume blood-nourishing and spleen-strengthening foods like red dates, millet, or Chinese yam to prevent excessive physical depletion.
Reaction 6: Skin Abnormalities
Moxibustion fortifies yang energy. When sufficient vital energy is present, it can dispel internal cold and dampness pathogens. Toxins and waste may be expelled through meridians and skin, causing small red dots, rashes, or itching.For those with weak spleen and stomach function, moxibustion should be combined with the Kidney Shu (BL23) and Spleen Shu (BL20) points. Choose foods like Chinese yam or coix seed that tonify the spleen and dispel dampness. Maintain a light diet and positive mood, avoiding spicy or irritating foods.
Friendly Reminder
Individuals may experience varying detox reactions after moxibustion, such as insomnia, drowsiness, fatigue, depression, or irritability—too numerous to list here. Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently after treatment to help expel internal dampness. Simultaneously, keep the body warm to prevent cold invasion.