Moxibustion, or Moxa, is a technique that involves the burning of the medicinal herb, mugwort (artemesia vulgaris) to facilitate healing of cold or deficient conditions. It was discovered long ago, that mugwort burned in a downward direction, unlike other herbs. This means that when lit, the heat penetrates down deeply into the body, warming, strengthening and nourishing.   Moxa can be applied directly on the skin or indirectly using a moxa stick, or on top of an acupuncture needle. This treatment often produces a feeling of warmth and peace in the recipient.