Moxa Manufacturing Process in Japan

The following is a brief summary of moxa production process, traditionally used in Yamasho, the authentic Moxa manufacture in Japan.

HARVESTING

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) leaves are harvested from late spring to summer in Japan. The hand-picked leaves are placed under the sun for drying.

Note: Chinese mugwort (Artemisia argyi Levl. et Vant.) is used internally in Chinese medicine and Japanese Kampo medicine.

Dried Mugwort Leaves

DRYING

In the beginning of winter (dry season in Japan), the sun-dried leaves are placed in heated drying Compartments in order to complete the drying process.

Moxa Drying Compartments

GRINDING

The dried leaves are grinded in the stone mills (rough and fine grinding mills).

Moxa Stone Mill

Grinding surface of Moxa Stone Mill

SIFTING

The ground leaves undergo sifting process in order to remove presence of impurities (mesophyll, stems etc.).

Sifting in the machinery called Nagadoshi

Sifting machinery — Yamasho Factory, Nagahama, Japan

PURIFYING

In order to produce a higher grade moxa (refined, smooth texture with golden color), further purifying process is required using the machinery called Tomi. The higher quality moxa is desired, particularly when conducting direct moxibustion.

Tomi – Used for Purifying Moxa

INSPECTING

The moxa products undergo quality inspection procedures prior to packaging.