Science

Acupuncture stimulates nerves, connective tissue and muscles in the body, which releases endogenous opioids such as endorphins and dynorphins. These chemicals bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal chord, reducing pain perception and helping the body to manage pain more effectively.

Studies have further shown that acupuncture lowers levels of inflammatory cytokines, which helps levels of pain. It also stimulates the sensory nerves, A-delta and C fibres, at the needle insertion points, which signals to the spinal chord and brain to suppress pain signals.

Research suggests that acupuncture is a vital tool in female health as it improves the blood flow to the reproductive organs, balances one's hormones, regulates one's cycle and reduces stress. These all contribute positively to reproductive health, fertility and embryo transfer success rates.

For conditions such as PCOS, acupuncture improves insulin sensitivity and some of the side effects such as hyperandrogenism. Studies on managing endimitriosis concluded that acupuncture helps reduce pelvic pain and inflammation.

Research suggests that acupuncture eases anxiety by regulating the nervous system, specifically by bringing the branches of the autonomic nervous system back into balance. Acupuncture treatment helps shift the body back into a relaxed state where the sympathetic system is more balanced and no longer dominating.

Research has concluded that acupuncture reduces pain by the release of endorphins and dynorphines, natural painkillers, through stimulation of the A-delta and C-nerve fibres.

More specifically to those undergoing cancer treatment, acupuncture has been found to reduce levels of pro-imflammatory cells and cytokines and also levels of nausea. Plus, the blood flow improvements and nerve repair seen with acupuncture help those suffering from neuropathy.