Direct moxibustion is avoided on the face, over large vessels, over the eye, at joint creases where scarring would restrict movement, and on the abdomen and lower back in pregnancy. In modern practice the face and the genital region are treated with stick moxibustion at a distance, if at all.
Precautions concern both patient and setting. The room should be ventilated but free of draught; the patient should not be fasting, exhausted or intoxicated; the skin should be inspected before and after. The ash must be removed safely, and the patient should be told that a warm sensation persisting for some hours is normal.