Cold pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation? No need to take painkillers. Moxibustion at one acupoint can relieve pain!

I really like moxibustion. Today, I share the story of moxibustion and my dysmenorrhea with my friends!

This is my personal experience of Moxibustion—using it to ease the cold, dull pain I get during my menstrual cycle. If you’ve ever had menstrual cramps, you know how draining they can be; for me, the worst part was that icy, heavy feeling in my lower belly, like there’s a cold stone weighing me down. But since I started using moxibustion on the Guanyuan point (the same one I mentioned for morning energy!), that pain has gotten so much more manageable. Let me tell you how it works.

The “Cold Pain” Struggle

First, let me explain what my cramps used to feel like. On the first 1-2 days of my period, my lower abdomen would feel freezing—even if I wore a warm sweater or wrapped a blanket around my waist. The pain wasn’t sharp, but it was constant, like a slow ache that made it hard to walk, work, or even sit comfortably. I’d try heating pads, but the warmth only stayed on the surface; it never seeped deep enough to soothe that inner cold. That’s when I remembered my TCM practitioner once said: “Cold in the lower belly blocks your qì (energy) during your period—moxibustion’s gentle heat can unblock it.”

My Menstrual Moxibustion Routine

Now, when I feel that first twinge of cold pain, I do a 15-minute moxibustion session on my Guanyuan point (4 fingers below the belly button). Here’s exactly how I do it:

1. Safety First: I lie down on my bed (so my belly is relaxed) and place a thin cloth over the area—this keeps the heat from being too intense and protects my skin.
2. Light the Moxa: I use a short moxa stick (the kind that’s easy to hold) and light the end until it glows slightly (it still smells like that warm, earthy herb—super calming when I’m stressed from pain).
3. Hover, Don’t Touch: I hold the moxa stick 1-2 inches above the cloth, right over the Guanyuan point. I move it slowly in small circles so the heat spreads evenly—never staying in one spot for too long.
4. Feel the Warmth: After 5 minutes, I start to feel a gentle heat seeping through the cloth, into my belly. It’s not hot or burning; it’s like someone’s holding a warm, soft hand there. Gradually, that icy feeling in my lower belly starts to melt away—slowly, but surely.

The Difference It Makes

The best part? Within 15-20 minutes, the cramping eases up. That heavy, cold ache doesn’t disappear completely, but it becomes mild enough that I can get up, make tea, or even work without wincing. Before I tried this, I’d spend hours curled up with a heating pad, feeling miserable. Now, this quick moxibustion session helps me take control of the pain—instead of letting it control me.

A few things I’ve learned along the way: I never do this on an empty stomach (it can make me lightheaded), and I always make sure the room is warm (no cold drafts!). Also, if the pain is really bad, I’ll do a second short session later in the day—just 15 minutes, and it helps keep the discomfort at bay.

It’s not a fix for everything, but for my “cold” menstrual cramps? It’s been a lifesaver. I love that it’s a gentle, natural way to take care of myself—no pills, just warmth and a little bit of time. If you or someone you know struggles with similar cramps, it’s worth trying (just make sure to learn the right points first, or ask a TCM expert!).

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