As a traditional Chinese therapy, moxibustion uses the heat generated by burning mugwort to stimulate acupuncture points. Its scientifically validated and traditionally recognized benefits include:
Pain Relief
Mechanism: Heat improves blood flow and relaxes stiff muscles and joints.
Applications: Neck/shoulder pain, lower back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps.
Immune System Boost
Research: Moxibustion at the Zusanli (ST36) acupoint enhances white blood cell activity.
Traditional Use: Prevents colds and aids post-illness recovery.
Improved Blood Circulation
Effects: Alleviates cold hands/feet and Raynaud’s syndrome (fingers turning white in cold).
Science: Heat triggers nitric oxide release, dilating blood vessels.
Endocrine Regulation
Cases: Reduces menopausal hot flashes and supports thyroid health.
Digestive Health Enhancement
Traditional Practice: Moxibustion at Zhongwan (CV12) acupoint relieves bloating and indigestion.
Stress and Emotional Relief
Mechanism: Stimulates endorphin release, improving insomnia and anxiety.
Recently, a new client openly shared her first impressions of my product. She initially seemed disappointed, as she was accustomed to using high-ratio (8:1 or higher), finely textured moxa sticks labeled as “three-year aged.” My product uses 5:1 ratio, third-year aged “09 mugwort.” While my sticks appear less refined, I explained that their value lies in authentic aging. I assured her of a refund if unsatisfied.
Yesterday, she returned with feedback: “The smoke isn’t harsh, and the heat feels gentle.” This confirmed she had genuinely used them. Truly aged moxa (2+ years) delivers steady, comfortable warmth without scalding, even at close range. High ratios (8:1, 15:1, etc.) often mask inferior, underaged mugwort—lower ratios in fresh mugwort look greenish and smell pungent. Many manufacturers prioritize appearance over quality, exploiting consumer ignorance about aging.
Most businesses enter the booming moxibustion market for profit. They buy machines, hire workers, source cheap floss, and mass-produce low-end 1:1 sticks. I’ve refused such clients who demand subpar materials. As competition grew, many shifted to high-ratio products to inflate prices and feign “premium” quality. Even some wellness centers fall for this deception.
Authentic aged moxa isn’t hard to produce—it just requires commitment:
Standardized storage facilities.
Financial patience (no profits for 3 years).
Integrity.
But it’s also agonizing. The costs are steep, and turning down quick sales feels foolish. Last year, a client criticized my 2007-vintage sticks but later repurchased extensively. True quality speaks for itself. I don’t push skeptics—”no deal, but goodwill remains.”
Friends suggest improving packaging. While rolling techniques have advanced, I’ve kept old packaging to prioritize floss quality over aesthetics. Thank you, loyal customers, for seeing beyond appearances!
Once, in 2004, I ran a Taobao shop selling baby shoes. A customer wanted festive boots, but I warned her they might be uncomfortable. Later, I realized: selling what I don’t believe in is unsustainable. Even as a merchant, conscience matters.
My persistence is paying off. Though busy, every return brings new clients referred by word-of-mouth. Authenticity, kindness, and integrity have their charm. I’ll hold firm to these values—they’re worth the grind.