Moxa sticks, also known as Aizhu (艾柱), which are used in moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine therapy.
Composition:
They are made from pure mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) and are typically aged for several years, resulting in a high concentration for effective use.
Purpose:
Moxibustion involves burning these sticks near specific acupuncture points or meridians to apply therapeutic heat, which is believed to stimulate blood and energy (Qi) flow, alleviate pain, and address various health concerns like digestive issues or menstrual cramps.
Usage:
The sticks are lit and held a few centimeters above the skin, or placed directly on the skin (with a barrier) at the treatment site, to create a gentle, penetrating warmth.
Benefits:
Users report benefits such as improved circulation, pain relief (e.g., for back pain or arthritis)