Benefits Of Acupuncture

For many that fear needles, the idea of having a needle inserted into their skin for any length of time would seem like torture. But there is good reason for the popularity and staying power of this alternative medicine practice: it has worked for 5000 years, and continues to improve the wellbeing of those who undergo the treatments, and who widely acclaim the benefits of acupuncture.

Let's look at the meaning of acupuncture as found in Wikipedia: Acupuncture (from Lat. acus, "needle", and pungere, "prick") is a technique of inserting and manipulating filiform needles into strategic points on the body with the aim of relieving pain and for therapeutic purposes. Acupuncture is thought to have originated in China and is closely associated with Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is practised and taught throughout the world.

The strategic points are specially chosen for their effect on specific parts of a person's physiology. Sometimes acupuncture needles also work with electricity to induce the physiological benefits of the particular points. Often another alternative therapy called Moxibustion is used in conjunction with acupuncture; and this involves the burning of herbs to elicit physiological benefits. Acupressure is also based on the same principles as acupuncture and is sometimes used in conjuncture with acupuncture.

Researchers using the protocols of evidence-based medicine have found good evidence that another benefit of acupuncture is that it is effective in preventing nausea. While little is known about the mechanisms by which acupuncture may act, a review of neuroimaging research suggests that specific acupuncture points have distinct effects on cerebral activity in specific areas that are not otherwise predictable anatomically.

The benefit of acupuncture is similar to many other alternative medicines in that the person receiving the treatment has to have a positive mindset that the treatment will be beneficial to their overall well being.

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