5 Amazing Acupuncture Benefits You Never Knew About

Benefits The Digestive System

Acupuncture benefits the digestive system primarily by increasing circulation. The increased blood flow that occurs as a result of acupuncture can reduce inflammation and make digestion easier. Patients who have digestive conditions such as peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, heartburn, and hiatal hernias may all find acupuncture useful. It is also beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome. Depending on the specific digestive condition a patient has, the acupuncturist can stimulate points on the body that may increase metabolism, reduce stomach acid secretion, and increase the contraction and relaxation of the gastrointestinal muscles. One of the major points utilized during most treatment sessions for digestive disorders is an area known as Sanyinjiao, which is located just above the ankle. A point called Weizhong, located on the back of the knee, is particularly beneficial in relieving abdominal pain.

Relieves Allergies

Research suggests acupuncture may be effective in reducing the symptoms of certain types of allergies. For example, a recent study demonstrated acupuncture was more effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis than antihistamines (the current standard treatment). The major acupuncture points stimulated in the study included the Hegu, Quchi, and Yingxiang areas. The study included both traditional acupuncture needles and warmed acupuncture needles. In addition to experiencing a reduction in their allergy symptoms, subjects in the study reported higher quality of life scores than those who took antihistamines. Additional studies have shown acupuncture relieves perennial allergies (non-seasonal) more effectively than other allergy types. Anecdotal evidence from practicing acupuncturists notes many patients find relief from the nasal stuffiness caused by allergies after just one acupuncture session. To increase the effectiveness of acupuncture for allergy relief, medical acupuncturists typically advise that patients avoid sugar and dairy products during the course of their treatment program. Some acupuncturists may choose to apply mugwort to acupuncture sites during a session; this practice is known as moxibustion, and it is thought to rebalance the body and reduce inflammation.