Objectives. To investigate the anti-aging effects of moxa smoke on SAMP8 mice. Methods. Using 2 × 3 factorial design, exposure length (15 or 30 minutes daily), and concentration (low, 5–15 mg/m3; middle, 25–35 mg/m3; high, 85–95 mg/m3), 70 SAMP8 mice were randomly assigned, n = 10/group, to a model group or one of six moxa smoke groups: L1, L2, M1, M2, H1, or H2. Ten SAMR1 mice were used as normal control. Mice in moxa smoke groups were exposed to moxa smoke at respective concentrations and exposure lengths; the model and normal control mice were not exposed. Cerebral 5-HT, DA, and NE levels were determined using ELISA. Results. Compared to normal control, the model group showed a significant decrease in 5-HT, DA, and NE. Compared to model group, 5-HT and NE were significantly higher in groups L2, M1, and M2 and DA was significantly so in L2 and M1. 5-HT, DA, and NE levels were the highest in group M1 among moxa smoke groups. A marked exposure length × concentration interaction was observed for 5-HT, DA, and NE. Conclusion. Moxa smoke increases monoamine neurotransmitter levels, which varies according to concentration and exposure length. Our finding suggests that the middle concentration of moxa smoke for 15 minutes seems the most beneficial.

International organisations such as WHO and the International Organization for Standardization are increasingly committed to the development of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Moxibustion is an integral modality of acupuncture that has been in use for thousands of years. It stands out as a health choice due to its potential effects in disease prevention, health promotion and maintenance, as well as affordability and accessibility. As the use of moxibustion increases, concerns are being raised regarding its safety and quality. The need to establish standards to protect patient safety is paramount in all medical fields. As a form of medical practice, it is essential to develop moxibustion standards in the areas of terminology, moxibustion products, treatment rooms and practice to ensure its harmonisation and safe usage. The evidence base guiding policy and decision making has to be based on evidence from basic and clinical research. Promoting strategic basic and clinical research on the safety and effectiveness of moxibustion will answer some of the fundamental questions surrounding moxibustion, create a climate of awareness and acceptance and, in turn, drive its standardisation.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are more integrated in the Chinese healthcare system than in the national healthcare systems of other countries. Development of acupuncture and moxibustion in China is making progress in this field. For overseas researchers, this commentary offers perspectives on the current status of acupuncture and moxibustion in China and examines relevant opportunities and challenges in healthcare reforms. There has been a steady increase in the number of undergraduates and postgraduates studying acupuncture and moxibustion in Chinese Medicine (CM) universities in China over the past decade. The legislation of CM physicians that was established in 1999 and the launch of continuing medical education in CM in 2002 have ensured the basic competency of practitioners. The Chinese Government has also shown support for CM development by increasing investment in related fields of research and administration. New challenges have emerged as the healthcare landscape in China has evolved over the past decade. It is important to harness the potential of acupuncture and moxibustion to create a value-driven healthcare system that meets the health needs of a rapidly aging society.

PM10 mass concentrations from the three types of moxa floss combustion exceeded internationally recommended levels. Despite so, PM10 mass concentration of moxa smoke was much lower than biomass and coal combustion and similar to that of gas combustion. The oxidative DNA damage induced by individual PM10 in moxibustion environment was lower than that reported in other environments, indicating that moxibustion-derived PM10 might not be as injurious to human health as generally assumed.