FAQs
Shopping Products
How long will it take to receive my order?
The delivery time for your order depends on various factors such as your location, shipping method chosen, and the processing time of the seller. Typically, orders are processed within 1-3 business days, and standard shipping may take an additional 3-7 business days for domestic orders.
What type of payment do you accept?
Can I cancel or make a change of my order?
Do you offer international shipping?
Can I return my purchased items?
When can I expect my refund to be processed after I make a return?
What should I do if my package arrives damaged or incomplete?
Is my personal information secure when I shop on your website?
Moxibustion
What is moxibustion, and how does it work?
What conditions or health issues can moxibustion help treat?
Moxibustion can help treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Pain management: Moxibustion is commonly used to alleviate musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, and chronic pain conditions.
- Digestive disorders: It may help improve digestion, alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and relieve nausea or vomiting.
- Menstrual disorders: Moxibustion can be effective in regulating menstrual cycles, reducing menstrual cramps, and managing symptoms of menopause.
- Respiratory conditions: It may help relieve symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Immune system support: Moxibustion is believed to strengthen the immune system and enhance overall health and vitality.
- Fertility support: It may aid in fertility issues by promoting reproductive health and balancing hormones.
- Stress and anxiety: Moxibustion can help reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia by promoting relaxation and improving mood.
This is not an exhaustive list, and the effectiveness of moxibustion may vary depending on individual circumstances. It's essential to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine the suitability of moxibustion for your specific health concerns.
How is moxibustion performed, and what does a typical session entail?
Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort (moxa) near specific acupuncture points on the body. During a session, the practitioner ignites a moxa stick or cone and holds it close to the skin or places it on acupuncture needles. The heat, smoke and odor generated from the burning moxa stimulates the acupuncture points, promoting the flow of qi (vital energy) and blood in the body.
Can moxibustion be performed at home?
Why should I try moxibustion?
Moxibustion offers several compelling reasons to consider it as a complementary or alternative therapy:
(1) Holistic Approach: Moxibustion addresses health issues holistically, targeting the root cause of the problem rather than merely alleviating symptoms. Unlike painkillers, which provide temporary relief, moxibustion aims to restore balance and promote healing throughout the body.
(2) Stimulation of Natural Healing: By stimulating acupuncture points with heat, moxibustion encourages the body's natural healing processes. This can result in long-term improvements in overall health and well-being, rather than just masking symptoms.
(3) Minimized Risk of Side Effects: Conventional treatments such as antibiotics may come with potential side effects and risks, especially with overuse or misuse. Moxibustion, on the other hand, is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner, with minimal risk of adverse effects.
(4) Alternative Option: While moxibustion may not be effective for every health issue or individual, it provides an alternative when conventional medicine fails to produce desired results. It offers individuals the opportunity to explore different avenues of healing and find what works best for their unique needs and circumstances.
What tools do I need for moxibustion?
The essential tools for moxibustion include moxa sticks and a lighter to ignite them. For home use, ensure you have high-quality moxa sticks, a reliable lighter, a holder to secure the burning moxa stick, and an extinguisher for safely discarding partially burned moxa sticks to prevent fire hazards. Additionally, as burning moxa sticks emit smoke and a potent odor that can cling to clothing and hair, it's advisable to wear easily washable clothes and consider using a bathing hat to cover your hair during the session.
Should I use regular moxa sticks or smokeless moxa sticks?
Choosing between smokeless and regular moxa sticks depends on your preferences and needs. Regular moxa sticks have been used in acupuncture for a long time and their therapeutic effects are well-established. However, they do produce some smoke and a strong odor. To address this, manufacturers have developed smokeless moxa sticks, which undergo a carbonization process during production to minimize smoke emissions. While smokeless moxa reduces around 90% of the smoke, it also diminishes the original aroma and active ingredients of mugwort, potentially affecting the efficacy of moxibustion. So experienced practitioners prefer regular moxa sticks over smokeless moxa sticks for more effective therapeutic effects.
What is drawback of moxibustion?
Moxibustion is almost a perfect treatment alternative to acupuncture except its odor and smoke. Moxibustion produces smoke, which can be an irritant for people with respiratory issues. Additionally, the distinct odor of moxa can be challenging for some people, with some describing it as a plant fragrance and others as similar to marijuana. To minimize the odor, (1) use a well-ventilated room or a bathroom with a ventilation fan, (2) wear easily washable clothes, (3) cover your hair with a bathing cap (if necessary), (4) wear mask to minimize inhale of moxa smoke, and (5) take a bath after treatment (waiting for at least 30 minutes after moxibustion).
Is moxibustion safe? Are there any side effects or risks associated with it?
Moxibustion is generally considered safe. However, there are potential side effects and risks to be aware of: (1) Burns: The burning moxa can cause burns if not applied properly or if left in contact with the skin for too long. (2) Smoke exposure: The smoke produced during moxibustion may contain potentially harmful substances, particularly if the moxa is of poor quality or contains impurities. Proper ventilation in the treatment area can help reduce smoke exposure. (3) Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to mugwort or other components of the moxa. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin irritation to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing. (4) Heat sensitivity: Moxibustion involves the application of heat, which may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or sensitivities to heat. Patients with conditions such as fever, acute inflammation, or certain skin disorders may need to avoid moxibustion or use alternative treatments. (5) Pregnancy precautions: Moxibustion may not be safe for pregnant women in some cases. So please exercise your caution if you are pregnant. However, it may be helpful for pregnant women with breech baby by applying moxibustion to acupoint BL67 (Zhiyin).
How long does a moxibustion session typically last, and how many sessions are recommended?
Moxibustion is beneficial for maintaining good health and treating various diseases. For health maintenance, one session per time, two to three times a week is recommended. The duration and frequency of moxibustion for disease treatment vary depending on the type of illness. For some conditions, daily moxibustion for an intensive treatment period of one to four weeks may be necessary. For others, two to three sessions per week over a prolonged period may be required.
What should I expect during and after a moxibustion treatment?
During treatment you may feel a warm or heating sensation at the site of application, which should be comfortable and relaxing. Some people also experience a gentle warmth spreading along the acupuncture meridians. You may feel other symptoms such as excessive gases or even cough which indicating that the energy produces by moxibustion expel bad energy from your body.
After a moxibustion treatment, you may experience the following: (1) Relaxation: Many people report feeling deeply relaxed and refreshed after a moxibustion session, similar to the effects of acupuncture. (2) Increased Energy: Some individuals experience a boost in energy levels following moxibustion, along with improved mood and mental clarity.(3) Potential Side Effects: While uncommon, you may experience mild side effects such as temporary redness or warmth at the site of application. If you have sensitive skin, there may be a slight risk of skin irritation. (4) Long-Term Effects: For chronic conditions or ongoing health maintenance, the effects of moxibustion may be cumulative over time. Consistent sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
What is good quality of moxa rolls or moxa sticks?
Moxa rolls (sticks) are made from the aged dried leafy material of mugwort (Artemisia argyi). The quality of moxa sticks is import for optimal treatment results. These are some factors to consider when purchasing moxa rolls in good quality. (1) Color: Good quality moxa has a golden hue due to the aging process, and new moxa has a greenish color. (2) Texture: Loose moxa made with good mugwort leaves feels cottony to the touch. They are solid, soft, with some elasticity, but not fluffy. Moxa made with the branches and stems of mugwort tends to be very stiff. They are not as good as loose moxa made with mugwort leaves. (3) Scent: Good quality moxa smells very mild, whereas new moxa has a distinct grassy smell, which comes from the mugwort oil. (4) Smoke: Aged, high quality moxa produces white smoke with mild scent, but inferior quality moxa can have a strong, pungent smell which is not good. (5) Fire: The fire of good quality aged moxa is mild, allowing treatments to last longer and avoiding possibly discomfort and injuries.
Can moxibustion be used in combination with other forms of traditional Chinese medicine, such as acupuncture or herbal medicine?
Yes, moxibustion can be used in combination with other forms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. In fact, this combination of therapies is quite common for optimal results in practice.
Is there scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of moxibustion?
Yes, there is scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of moxibustion for various health conditions. Numerous studies have shown positive results in pain management, digestive disorders, menstrual issues, respiratory conditions, and more. However, further research is still needed to fully understand its mechanisms and efficacy.
Here are some interesting website:
Cleveland Clinics: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/moxibustion
University of Minnesota https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/moxibustion
Moxibustion Reduces Ovarian Granulosa Cell Apoptosis Associated with Perimenopause in a Natural Aging Rat Model
Can moxibustion be used for children, pregnant women, or the elderly?
Moxibustion can be used for children, pregnant women, and the elderly, but it should be approached with caution:
Children: Moxibustion can be used for children to address various health concerns, such as respiratory issues, digestive problems, and immune support. However, the duration and intensity of the treatment may need to be adjusted to suit the child's age, size, and sensitivity. Additionally, extra care should be taken to ensure the child feels comfortable and safe during the session.
Elderly Individuals: Moxibustion can be beneficial for elderly individuals to address age-related health issues such as arthritis, joint pain, and poor circulation. However, elderly individuals may have more sensitive skin or underlying health conditions that need to be considered when performing moxibustion. Adjustments to the duration and intensity of the treatment may be necessary to ensure safety and comfort.
Pregnant Women: It is a little big complicated if pregnant women can use moxibustion. Moxibustion definitely helps women with infertility problems and for pregnant women In their early stage of pregnancy. In late stage it is only recommended for pregnant women with a breech baby and only acupoint that can be applied treatment is 67.
Herbal Medicine
What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is a traditional healing practice that involves the use of plants and plant extracts to promote health and treat various ailments. It encompasses a wide range of herbal remedies, including teas, tinctures, capsules, and topical preparations, each derived from different parts of plants such as leaves, roots, bark, seeds, or flowers. Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years across cultures worldwide and continues to be valued for its potential therapeutic benefits.
What conditions or ailments can herbal medicine help treat?
Herbal medicine can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, skin conditions, menstrual disorders, and emotional imbalances. It can also be used to support the immune system, improve energy and vitality, and promote overall wellness.
One of the benefits of herbal medicine is that it can be used in combination with other forms of medicine, including Western medicine. In fact, many patients choose to combine Chinese herbal medicine with other forms of treatment to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Herbal medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that aims to treat the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a particular illness or condition. Practitioners of Chinese herbal medicine take into account a patient's individual pattern of signs and symptoms, as well as their emotional temperament and overall constitution, in order to create a personalized treatment plan.
If herbal medicine effective?
Here is a story from Physician in Japa that may answer your question.
“First of all, I wish to share the reason why I entered into this field. In 1990 I was working as a physician of obstetrics and gynecology at Keiju General Hospital in northern Japan. One day, I came across a curious case. I had planned to operate on an 18-year-old female patient who suffered from condyloma acuminatum. Condyloma acuminatum is a troublesome disease for ob/gyn physicians. It is hard to cure completely, and even after surgery patients still feel much pain. I was therefore not anticipating the operation with much enthusiasm. On the day of the operation, however, I was astonished to see that the lesions had completely disappeared. There should have been many condyloma lesions that had spread from the outer genitalia to the vaginal wall! Soon the reason for her spontaneous recovery became clear. Her grandmother had given her a kind of food that consisted of various natural products which mainly contained fermented coix seeds (a kind of wheat). She got the seeds from her grandmother, and was sure that it had worked wonders on the condyloma. This was my first contact with traditional folk medicine so effective as to outperform all of the Western medical modalities, including surgery, in which I had been trained. I have been interested in CAM from that time and now I am investigating the fundamental aspects and clinical efficacy of this food with my colleagues.”
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC516460/
However, it's important to note that herbal medicine is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and what works for one person may not work for another. Furthermore, not all herbal remedies are backed by scientific research, and some may have limited evidence supporting their efficacy or safety.
Is herbal medicine safe?
First of all, most herbal medicine formula are made of herbs used daily as food. For example, most frequently used formula “Cinnamon Twig Decoction” (Guizhi tang), commonly used to treat common cold or flu, is composed of five herbs including cinnamon twig, fresh ginger, white peony, red dates and licorice are combined and boiled as a tea for a delicious and supportive formula. A lot of other herbs that can be used as treatment as well as food include Sichuan pepper, adlay millet, roasted soybeans, peppermint, wolf berries, raspberries, Chinese Yam, dandelion, etc.
Of course, some herbs in raw form are toxic and need to processed before to be served. For example, Monkshood is an important herbs in herbal medicine but it contains highly toxic aconitine and related alkaloids, as little as 2 mg of aconite or 1 g of plant may cause death from respiratory paralysis or heart failure. However, aconitine and alkaloids are decomposed after being boiled for two hours. Therefore, an experienced herbalist will precess it before serving patients. However, some herbs definitely should be avoided because it is impossible to get rid of its toxic. For example, Isotrema manshuriense contains Aristolochic acids (AAs) which cause damage to kidneys. Good news is that a lot of resources are used to inform herbal medicine practitioners about toxic herbs.
Thirdly, some toxic herbs are used to treat patients and they are safe to be used in low dose and short term. For example, Euphorbia kansui is very toxic and can cause skin, oral, and gastrointestinal irritation. They possess multiple pharmacological activities, including diuretic, purgation, and antitumor effects. Usually it is used in low doses and only only one to two times to treat pleural effusion.
Finally, although herbal medicine is not regulated in Western countries, it is regulated in Asia countries such as China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore and its safety is monitored and tested.For example, 148 herbal medicine formulae were approved by Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan in 2011 and were covered by government insurance.
Are there any adverse events or risks associated with herbal medicine?
Yes, there can be adverse events or risks associated with herbal medicine, just as there are with any form of treatment. Some potential risks include:
Allergic Reactions: Individuals may be allergic to certain herbs, resulting in allergic reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis.
Herb-Drug Interactions: Herbal remedies can interact with prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or other supplements, leading to potentially harmful effects or reduced efficacy of either the herbal medicine or the medication.
Toxicity: Some herbs may contain toxic compounds that can cause adverse effects or harm if consumed in large quantities or over a prolonged period. Examples include certain herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine that contain heavy metals or aristolochic acid, which can cause kidney damage or cancer.
Misidentification or Contamination: There is a risk of misidentification or contamination of herbal products, especially if they are not sourced from reputable suppliers. Contamination with pesticides, heavy metals, or other contaminants can pose health risks.
Side Effects: Like conventional medications, herbal remedies may have side effects, although they are generally considered to be milder. However, certain herbs may cause gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, headache, or other adverse effects in some individuals.
Not Suitable for Certain Populations: Some herbs may not be safe for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in certain medical conditions. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or herbalist before using herbal medicine, especially in vulnerable populations.
Is herbal supplment equal to herbal medicine??
No, they are different. While some patients may take herb supplements to treat their symptoms, it is not recommended for two reasons: (1) Although herbs are used in herbal medicine to treat diseases and maintain health, understanding the root cause of the symptoms is a preceding step to deciding which herbs to take. (2) In a few cases where a single herb is used as treatment, it is more common for formulas that combine multiple herbs to be used as treatment. This is because a single herb may have side effects, while the therapeutic effect may not be optimal. For example, black cohosh is used by some women to alleviate menopause symptoms, but it can cause liver damage. When black cohosh is used in combination with other herbs, its side effects are reduced, while the therapeutic effect of the formula is maximized.
Why is herbal medicine not FDA approved?
First, the FDA does not approve or regulate herbal medicines in the same way because herbal products are often marketed as dietary supplements and fall under different regulations than prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Secondly, Almost all drugs approved by the FDA undergo a rigorous process that involves extensive clinical trials which costs between multiple million dollars or even billing dollars. As a result, pharmaceutical companies often seek patent protection for their innovative drugs to recoup their investment and gain market exclusivity. During this time, no other company can produce the same drug, allowing the patent holder to charge higher prices and recoup their investment. However, herbal medicines, derived from natural sources such as plants, minerals, and animal products, cannot be patented in the same manner as synthetic drugs. Consequently, there is less motivation for herbal medicine manufacturers to engage in the same regulatory process specified by the FDA.
Thirdly, herbal medicine is often considered a personalized treatment option because it allows for customization based on individual needs, health conditions, and constitutional factors. Herbalists may combine multiple herbs in unique formulations to create a synergistic effect tailored to a person's specific needs. This approach allows for flexibility in adjusting dosages, herbal combinations, and delivery methods to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, the standard clinical trial methods do not apply to herbal medicine. As a result, it is not qualified for submission to FDA as a drug for approval.
While FDA approval is an important indicator of a medication's safety and efficacy, it does not always guarantee effectiveness, as individual responses to drugs can vary widely.