Mugwort & Moxibustion

Moxibustion & Heritage

Moxibustion, an ancient practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine, was listed in 2010 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This international recognition highlights the cultural, historical, and therapeutic value of this millennia-old technique, which involves stimulating acupuncture points using the heat generated by burning mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris).

Used for centuries to balance vital energy and strengthen the body's natural defenses, moxibustion is an integral part of the holistic Eastern approach to health and well-being. Its inclusion on UNESCO’s list confirms its significance not only as a therapeutic method but also as a living heritage, passed down from generation to generation.

Mugwort Artemisia Vulgaris

Mugwort is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae (or Compositae) family, widely recognized in traditional medicine for its numerous properties. There are many species of mugwort, including tarragon, wormwood, and genepi, all known for their culinary or therapeutic uses.

The species we specifically use is Artemisia vulgaris, also known as common mugwort, St. John’s herb, or fire herb. Traditionally harvested around the summer solstice, it is at its energetic peak, particularly for moxibustion practices.

It should not be confused with Artemisia annua (annual mugwort), although the latter is also recognized for its medicinal properties in other therapeutic contexts. The two species differ in both appearance and fragrance. Artemisia vulgaris has a warm, sweet, and penetrating aroma, while annua has a greener, bitter, and vegetal scent.

The mugwort used here is specially selected for moxibustion, where its combustion quality, energetic power, and pleasant aroma are essential.

Harvest

The mugwort harvested comes from wild picking, without fertilizers or pesticides. It grows in organic areas and is hand-picked on "leaf days" of the lunar calendar, as the ancient Druids did.

Once cut, it is gathered into bundles and hung upside down in a well-ventilated drying shed to maximize its energy.

Moxa Production

After drying, the mugwort is mechanically stripped, then ground and rolled into sticks in our workshop.

These rolls, called “moxas,” are wrapped in thin, durable paper. The word “moxa” comes from the Japanese “moguza,” meaning “prolonged fire.”

Detailed Steps & Video

Learn more about the production process.

Vert Nature Moxas: Low Smoke

Vert Nature moxas produce significantly less smoke. Click the image on the right to watch the comparative video.

Learn More

A selection of links to deepen your knowledge about mugwort, its medicinal uses, cultivation, and controversies surrounding its use.

• 🌿 Mugwort: Vegetable & Medicine