Moxibustion. Hand of an acupuncturist applying a moxa stick to the back of a woman's hand. Moxa is dried processed leaves of mugwort (Artemisia latiflora vulgaris). The moxa is lit and the glowing tip held close to an acupuncture point. Moxibustion is used to warm the body's 'Qi' (life force). It is particularly used in the treatment of conditions characterized by coldness and dampness. Acupuncture was developed in China on the theory that 'Qi' flows along a body's meridian lines. It is believed that diseases are caused by interruption of this flow. Insertion of needles or moxibustion at points along the meridians are thought to restore normal flow.