ISO 20493, Traditional Chinese medicine – Infrared moxibustion-like instrument aims to ensure the safety and quality of instruments used in moxibustion acupuncture.
Moxibustion, a form of heat therapy targeting acupuncture points in the body, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Usage of the practice is increasing worldwide. Moxibustion claims to assist with medical issues such as osteoarthritis, digestive complaints, asthma, and soft tissue injuries.
ISO 20493 aims to set minimum safety and quality requirements for manufacturers and regulators alike.
Dr David Graham, Chair of the technical committee that developed the standard, said: “The infrared moxibustion-like instrument used in traditional Chinese medicine uses specific wavelengths to treat various diseases, so for these to be effective, and to regulate the market, we decided to develop an International Standard.
“ISO 20493 defines the scope and technical requirements needed to ensure safety and quality, providing a basis on which regulations can be made, and ultimately facilitating international trade as well,” Graham said.