The Science of Acupuncture: Overview

Acupuncture balances the health of the whole body while it stops pain, boosts metabolism, and eases stress. Instead of wondering if acupuncture works, scientists have been scratching their heads and performing studies to figure out how it works. They managed to develop six different theories that, combined, provide some light into the mystery of acupuncture.

Acupuncture....

• Augments Immunity
• Releases Endorphins
• Improves Circulation
• Controls Nerve Gateways
• Balances Neurotransmitter Levels

Chinese medicine can view
disconnected symptoms
as related to one another

In the United States, we have specialists that bring to my mind the expression “the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing.” If I had carpal tunnel in my right wrist and arthritis in my left, for each wrist I might end up seeing two specialists that never speak to each other! Many people have trouble understanding acupuncture in the West because one treatment can work with so many systems at the same time. I am thankful that TCM has one-to-many correspondences, since we are able to treat multiple conditions with just a few needles.

Felix Mann aptly described acupuncture
point selections as "constellations."

With all the acupuncture points on the body, mapping their individual functions would take longer than mapping the human genome. Luckily you don't have to know what points you wish to receive before you go to the acupuncturist! Every point on the body has its own potential effects; the skill of your practitioner will determine where and how these effects are used to your benefit.

Acupuncture stimulates and regulates your body's natural response, creating improvement with no side effects. Every day, your body is fighting for its life and well-being, overwhelmed by stress and repetitive strain. Acupuncture stimulates your brain to reset and rewire the patterns of your natural functions. This is the same for every patient; the differences lie in the details and nature of the condition addressed.

Acupuncture Balances Neurotransmitter Levels

Because acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, it has a special effect on neurotransmitter levels. The neurotransmitters acupuncture affects most are seratonin and noradrenaline.

Neurotransmitters are essential
for building healthy relationships.

.

Seratonin is the nervous system's gauge for food intake. It moderates social interaction, and determines relationship behavior. Low levels of seratonin are linked to sugar cravings, depression, anxiety, OCD, and addictions.

Higher levels of seratonin are associated with calmness, optimism, and mindful reflection.

Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is a stress hormone that stimulates the fight-or-flight response. Chronically high noradrenaline levels produce adrenal fatigue and circulation problems.

The best acupuncture point to balance
neurotransmitters is located near
the base of the ear.

Lowering levels of noradrenaline allows the rest-and-digest response to activate. One point on the ear is called the 'autonomic point,' and it specifically balances these responses. This point is featured in a specialized protocol
used in addiction recovery all over the world.

After people receive acupuncture, their seratonin levels rise and their noradrenaline levels decline. This is why acupuncture is so effective for weight loss, mood disorders, and all kinds of addiction. It also explains why people feel so amazing after a session.