This research starts from a retrospect of evolution and history of acu-moxa instruments and attempts to give an explanation of the hidden motivation, with an emphasis on its influences to the development of acu-moxa techniques, theoretical construction, as well as international transmission. Firstly, with an clarification of the contents and reasons, the scope of acumoxa instruments is defined. Secondly, based on an literature review, the application, innovation and modern situation of acumoxa instruments are summarized chronologically. With a new logic of statement, the hidden ideological, intellectual and social background is exhibited. Finally, three questions are discussed in detail:Were there any extractable tendencies during different periods of development of these instruments? What were the objective motivations that resulted in the evolution and creativity of these instruments? What kind of influences might be brought to the discipline of ‘acu-moxa’ by the evolution and development of these instruments? By answering these questions, we open up to several ideas about Chinese medicine in the dialogue between tradition and modern times, as well as in the whole environment of globalization.

needling instruments  /  moxibustion apparatus  /  acu-moxa  /  history of medicine