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Moxibustion uses heat, so the person receiving it needs to be part of the safety plan. Here is what to mention and agree on before the moxa is lit.

Heat treatments depend on good communication

Moxibustion involves warming areas of the body with burning moxa, usually held near the skin or placed on a needle or barrier. Because heat is involved, your feedback is part of keeping the session safe and comfortable. Preparation means understanding what you should report and how your skin will be checked during and after treatment.

Things to tell your practitioner beforehand

At the Lane Cove clinic, Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, will want to know about:

• any difficulty sensing temperature, for instance from diabetes, nerve damage or scar tissue;
• skin that is irritated, sunburnt, broken or recently treated;
• asthma, smoke sensitivity or concerns about the smell of moxa;
• pregnancy or any condition you have been advised to discuss before heat treatments.

Speaking up during the session

A comfortable plan includes clear permission to say something the moment the heat feels too strong. You do not need to wait until the end of a session or worry about interrupting. Agree on a simple word or gesture before starting so it feels natural to use.

Understanding aftercare

Before leaving, ask what aftercare to follow, such as keeping the area clean, avoiding hot showers on the spot or watching for blistering. If a reaction differs from what was described, especially redness that worsens or a blister that appears, get in touch for advice. What suits one person's skin can differ greatly from another's.

Reducing smoke concerns

Smokeless moxa sticks exist, and some techniques produce less smoke than others. If the smell or smoke worries you, ask whether an alternative is possible. Raising this early gives room to adjust the plan rather than discovering discomfort part way through.

Preparing for your appointment

Wearing clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated can make the session smoother. If you have notes about past reactions to heat packs or hot water bottles, bring them along to Lane Cove; they offer useful clues about how your skin responds to warmth.