What is San Fu Jiu?
San Fu moxibustion is a special therapy from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is done during the San Fu period, which is the hottest days of summer. During this time, the body‘s Yang energy and meridian activity are at their highest (Lo & Lo, 2023).
This seasonal treatment helps with health issues from past winters. It also prepares your body for the cold Canadian winter. Using the healing warmth of burning mugwort on certain acupressure points, San Fu moxibustion has many benefits.
- It helps improve blood flow.
- It opens energy pathways in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- It strengthens the body‘s defenses against cold and dampness (闫星周, n.d.)
In this blog, you’ll learn what San Fu Jiu is, why it’s performed during the hottest days of the year, how it warms meridians, boosts Yang energy, and the key acupressure points used in treatments. We’ll also cover the moxibustion benefits, who can benefit most, and answer common questions so you can decide if it’s right for you.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment. It uses heat from burning dried mugwort herb. This is done over specific acupuncture or acupressure points on the body. This soothing warmth penetrates deeply into the body’s meridians, helping to raise internal temperature and promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood.
Moxibustion has many benefits. This technique is especially helpful for people who often feel cold or have autoimmune conditions. By stimulating targeted acupressure points with mugwort’s heat, moxibustion can enhance circulation, restore energetic balance, and promote overall well-being.
Why does San Fu Jiu take place during the summer?
San Fu Days (三伏天) occur during the hottest period of summer, when yang energy in both nature and the human body reaches its peak. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is the best time for treating winter diseases. This practice is known as “treating winter diseases in summer” (冬病夏治). This seasonal method helps remove lingering cold and dampness. The body is more open to outside help during this time.
During San Fu moxibustion treatments, burning dried mugwort over specific acupressure points and meridians not only warms the body but also strengthens the Wei Qi (defensive energy), enhancing immunity and reducing the recurrence of illnesses that often worsen in colder months. By aligning with the seasonal energy of San Fu Days, moxibustion maximizes its benefits for long-term wellness.
Warming Meridians
One of the key moxibustion benefits during San Fu Days is its ability to warm and nourish the meridians when they are naturally more open in the hot summer months. In meridian TCM theory, these pathways influence conditions like asthma, arthritis, and seasonal joint stiffness. By improving Qi flow during this peak period, San Fu moxibustion can help reduce flare-ups, support circulation, and minimize recurring issues—such as feet cold while sleeping—before they worsen during the Canadian winters.
Boost Yang energy
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body has two kinds of energy called Yin and Yang. During the San Fu period, the Yang energy is the strongest. This extra warmth helps San Fu Moxa work better by boosting Yang energy and making other treatments like acupuncture more effective. By using heat on special spots called acupressure points, San Fu Moxa helps keep your body strong and healthy even after summer is over.
What are some acupressure points that can be used during San Fu Jiu treatments?
Qihai
Qihai, found below the navel, is a powerhouse point for tonifying Qi and Yang. Applying moxibustion here during San Fu Days helps store vital energy, support immunity, and combat symptoms like low energy or feet cold while sleeping. It’s especially effective when the body is naturally more open to absorbing heat therapy in summer.
Zusanli
Zusanli, located on the lower leg, is one of the most famous points for strengthening the immune system and overall vitality. In San Fu Moxa, stimulating Zusanli can boost digestion, improve circulation, and help prevent seasonal illnesses by keeping Yang energy strong before the cold months arrive.
Hegu
Found between the thumb and index finger, Hegu is known for regulating Qi flow throughout the body. During San Fu treatments, applying moxa or acupressure to Hegu can relieve headaches, muscle tension, and seasonal flare-ups, while also supporting the meridians’ ability to distribute Yang energy efficiently.
San yinjiao
Sanyinjiao, located on the inner lower leg, is a key point for balancing the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians. San Fu Moxa here can help with digestive issues, hormonal balance, and circulation problems, especially for those who experience symptoms like cold feet or poor warmth retention in winter.
(To learn more about these acupressure points and how to find them, check out our TikTok page for step-by-step guides and demonstrations.)
What are San Fu Moxibustion’s benefits? Who benefits from them?
- Helps expel chronic cold and dampness that build up during Canadian winters
- Ideal for people who often have cold feet while sleeping or feel cold easily
- Supports those with chronic conditions like asthma, arthritis, and digestive weakness
- Prevents seasonal flare-ups by preparing the body ahead of colder months
- Enhances overall vitality, energy, and well-being with natural, non-invasive therapy
Your Top Questions About San Fu and Its Moxibustion Benefits
Q1: I don’t feel sick right now. Should I still try it?
Yes! San Fu Jiu is preventive medicine. Even if you feel fine, it’s like giving your immune system and energy levels a boost before the colder, more draining months arrive.
Q2: Does it hurt? Will it leave marks?
You might feel a bit of warmth or mild tingling. Sometimes the herb burning may cause light redness (this is considered part of the detox process in TCM), but it usually fades in a few days.
Q3: Can kids or older adults do San Fu Jiu?
Yes! It’s gentle and great for boosting weak immunity. We just use milder formulas for kids or sensitive skin. Always let us know about any allergies or medical conditions beforehand.
Q4: What should I avoid after a San Fu Jiu session?
After your treatment, avoid:
- Cold drinks or raw foods (they counteract the warmth)
- Taking a cold shower right away
- Overexertion—rest is key so the body can absorb the treatment
Stick to warm, easy-to-digest meals and drink lots of room-temperature water.
Q5: Can I do this with acupuncture or cupping?
Q6: Can I still do San Fu Jiu if I’m menstruating or pregnant?
Menstruating? Yes, in most cases—but we might avoid certain points. Pregnant? We recommend waiting until after birth, as some acupoints and herbs may be too stimulating during pregnancy. Always consult your practitioner first.
Q7: What if I miss the San Fu Days—can I still benefit?
You can still benefit from moxibustion outside of San Fu Days, but the unique power of San Fu Jiu lies in seasonal timing. That said, your therapist can offer warming treatments tailored to your constitution year-round.
Concluding Notes
At Osteo Tuina, we offer Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis services. Our goal is to help you find relief. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website or give us a call directly.
Disclaimer: This blog presents information based on our research and views. If you have questions or specific health concerns, please reach out to us or consult your healthcare provider for more help
