Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a part of the Chinese medicine system, originating over 2,000 years ago. It consists of inserting fine sterilised needles in key points along the body, which balances the patient’s flow of energy (known in Chinese medicine as “qi”, and believed to be the basis of a person’s health).
Modern research has found that Acupuncture works by the following mechanism: the needles stimulate the subcutaneous nerves, which then send signals to different parts of the brain, which regulates the function of glands such as the pituitary and the thyroid glands, which triggers the release of various chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, etc.
By regulating the endocrine system in this way, acupuncture achieves the following effects:
— relieves pain and inflammation
— increases the body’s pain tolerance
— improves the blood circulation and speeds up the elimination of toxins
— strengthens the immune system
— achieves hormonal balance
— induces mental and emotional relaxation
It is important to note that Acupuncture is safe for pregnant women if the practitioner is trained on which acupuncture points to avoid.