To understand moxibustion from the biological effect of local thermal stimulation

Moxibustion is one of treatment modalities in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its working mechanism is activated through heat-induced local thermal stimulation. By reviewing and compiling clear, scientific analysis of the biological and physiological effects from local thermal heat, the authors provides a coherent and systemic source to aid us to form an understanding of the mechanism of moxibustion's promotion of qi and blood circulation throughout the body from local thermal stimulation. This has been done by a rigorous review of previous studies of the thermal effect on the body. The following presents the local, distal and systemic biological effects from local thermal stimulation while also discussing the similarities and differences between local thermal stimulation and moxibustion.