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Self-moxibustion (e.g. Sennen-kyu)

灸 / せんねん灸

A listing is not a recommendation.

Origin: Japan and China · Tradition: Home use of moxibustion · Heat & water

What it is

A self-care form of warming acupuncture points with the heat of mugwort (moxa). In Japan, stick-on or pedestal moxa (for example Sennen-kyu) is widely sold for home use. It is used for feeling cold, tiredness, and digestive discomfort.

A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)

Always follow the instructions and use a product with temperature control, such as one with a pedestal. Do not handle fire casually on your own.
Try only on skin with normal sensation, starting with a short time.
Remove it at once if it feels too hot. Do not stack too many on the same spot.
Fully extinguish used moxa before discarding it.

Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice

Feeling cold easily
Cold or puffy feet
Tiredness
Constipation or digestion
Low back pain

Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)

C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read

There are several systematic reviews of moxibustion, but quality is low and conclusions about effects vary with the conditions. Large studies of the safety and usefulness of home pedestal moxa are limited.

Sources

Safety notes

Burns are the main risk. Reduced sensation, use during sleep, and open flame near children are dangerous. People sensitive to smoke should still take care, even with lower-smoke products.

If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.

Situations in which this is better avoided

Reduced sensation, for example from diabetic neuropathy
The abdomen and lumbosacral area in pregnancy
Near the face or mucous membranes
Areas without skin sensation, infection, or marked swelling
Settings where open flame is forbidden