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An Introduction To Acupuncture

In this article we look at some introductory concepts, tips and helpful information about the ancient healing practice of acupuncture ...

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine – A Resurgence Of Interest

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are making a comeback. In a world suddenly obsessed with all-natural remedies and organic products, ancient Chinese healing techniques are becoming popular. Chinese healing has traditionally been eyed with suspicion. To be quite honest, acupuncture and Chinese healing have their roots in Taoism – ancient Chinese philosophy rather than evidence-oriented Western medicine. Still, a great many of its treatments do work. This has caused many medical experts to find out how acupuncture and Chinese medicine works in the scientific model.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine – Its History

Whereas Chinese healing has begun making inroads in the West, it has always been big in the East. Acupuncture and Chinese healing is a part of the professional medical landscape in China and Taiwan. It is practically practiced alongside Western medicine. It is usually viewed with preference there if the ailments are non-life threatening. In the West, Chinese healing has the status of alternative medicine. However, perceptions are slowly changing.

Central to the art of acupuncture and oriental medicine is the concept of Meridians. Chinese philosophy states that energy flows throughout the entire body. This is called Chi. Diseases and ailments are symptoms of disruptions in Chi. The purpose of acupuncture and herbal medicine is to try to bring back the correct flow of Chi. Despite the mystical origin, science is actually finding out that many health claims made by Chinese healing are provable.

Acupuncture is believed to induce the release of endorphins which cause better blood circulation. This helps individuals boost their immune system and heal faster. Endorphins also help people relax more which helps reduce stress-induced ailments.

Chinese herbs constitute much of oriental medicine. There are practically thousands of herbs used in Chinese medicine. Practitioners usually use herbs in various combinations to treat patients. Whereas the selection of herbs used to be guided by Chinese philosophy, the approach now is modern. Herbs are selected based on their chemical properties and interaction with the body.

The threat of artificial chemicals and its effects on the body have bought acupuncture and Chinese medicine to the spotlight. Added to this, many people are finding out that it is way cheaper compared to other treatments. Because treatments are natural and medicine is organic, there are hardly any side effects.

Acupuncture Overview - Evidence As bizarre as it may seem to the Western mind that sticking a needle into the web between thumb and forefinger can relieve headache, there is a great deal of evidence that acupuncture works. There have been dozens of studies done that show positive results for acupuncture in treating conditions as diverse as asthma, migraines, diabetic neuropathy, arthritis, lower back pain, depression, painful menstruation and menopause. The National Institutes of Health have concluded that there is enough evidence of the value of acupuncture to support further research of its clinical value.

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DISCLAIMER:

This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.

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