How Acupuncture Works

In the West, the most common definition of how acupuncture works has something to do with the flow or lack of flow of qi throughout the body. Qi is actually known as the invisible flow of energy that runs through the channels of the body. This invisible flow of energy which is known as qi is also referred to as meridians for some people especially practitioners. When a person suffers from a disease, practitioners immediately sense that there is a blockage of qi flow in the body.

Acupuncture which basically involves insertion of small needles into the different channels throughout the body helps unblock and preserved the continuous flow of energy. Although acupuncture is considered as an alternative medicine, there is still a number of scientific evidence that proves and shows how acupuncture works.

It is important to understand and have an in depth insight of how acupuncture works. Firstly, you need to understand that the body needs oxygen. And, oxygen must freely circulate and flow through the body. Secondly, the body contains various channels where the energy and oxygen must freely flow. These channels are the vessels in the blood which carries and transports oxygen. And, when acupuncture needles are inserted into the body, these needles stimulate the nerves and perk them up.

Acupuncture has three principal effects in order to fight and counter the disease. These effects are relieving pain, reducing inflammation and restoring homeostasis. These three principal effects can be achieved by a number of basic ways caused by the acupuncture needles that stimulate the nerves in the body. These acupuncture needles and points create a distention to the region or area of the disease. These needles stimulate and awaken the body's healing potential. Once the healing stimulation begins, the body releases natural pain killing chemicals which are known as endorphins. In addition, a person who has been to an acupuncturist knows that acupuncture sessions create a more relaxing and soothing environment. This environment allows the patient to let go of the tension and release stress which cause the body to suffer from a number of diseases.

In sum, oxygen in the body is known mainly as the qi. This qi sustains life. Consequently, oxygen is carried by blood throughout the body through the vessels. And, when there is insufficiently or lack of oxygen flow in the body, disease occurs. A number of diseases can cause pain, inflammation and even lack of homeostasis. The acupuncture needles and points stimulate the nervous system of the body. Hence, it causes vasodilatation, healing mechanisms, pain killer release and even muscle relaxation.