Tonetskyu is the traditional Japanese medical term for rice grain moxibustion. This is where very small pieces of the herb artemesia vulgaris, commonly known as mugwort are rolled in the finger tips to form very small, rice grain sized cones or threads which are placed directly onto the acupuncture points on the skin.
When they are placed on the skin they sit on a small layer of cream to help them stick and stay on the point. They are then lit with the end of an incense stick.
As they burn down, they are extinguished by pressing down on them with your finger which prevents the skin from being burnt. This creates for a second or two, a heat which is transferred to the acupuncture point. It is this heating mechanism that produces the therapeutic effect.
What are the benefits of tonetskyu?
There are three main therapeutic effects of using tonetskyu. The first is tonification or better understood as a means to supplement deficiency and weakness in the body. The second benefit is to “shunt” energy. This is best described as moving energy from an area of excess accumulation away from where it is blocking the movement of energy. Lastly, the tonetskyu method improves blood circulation and also helps move areas that have accumulated fluids.
What conditions can tonetskyu be used for?
People presenting with tiredness and weakness often will have a weakened immune system and tonetskyu is commonly used such as for example, in chronic fatigue. As the technique can move energy blockage, it can assist in resolving areas of painful stagnation such as in tennis elbow or heel spurs. It can also be used for general kidney yang tonification, lower back Pain, sciatica, male and female infertility , enhance libido, incontinence and severe Qi and blood deficiency.
Where can acupuncturists learn this technique?
Alan Jansson of World Acupuncture runs regular workshops around the world and will be presenting an introductory workshop for the first time in Wellington, New Zealand in January 2019. Part of this workshop will go through the process of how to roll the moxa cones and threads and apply them in clinical practise.
Can I see a video of tonetskyu being used?
Please visit World Acupuncture here.