Johns Hopkins Medicine has published an interesting paper on the “Acupuncture” that provides a comprehensive review of this popular therapy for a vast variety of illnesses. Their description of Acupuncture includes: “Acupuncture is part of the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TCM is a system of healthcare that has evolved over thousands of
years to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. TCM believes that the body’s vital
energy, called qi (pronounced chi), flows along specific channels or meridians. If
the qi is balanced then the person has spiritual, emotional, and physical health. But
when the qi isn’t in balance, disease may occur. Qi can be blocked, causing
unbalance between the yin and yang. This refers to two opposite but connected
principles in Chinese philosophy TCM uses many approaches to create harmony
between yin and yang and restore correct flow of energy through the meridians.
One of these approaches is acupuncture. Acupuncturists believe the human body
has more than 2,000 acupuncture points. They are linked through the various
meridians. The use of acupuncture on certain points within the meridians is
believed to improve the flow of blocked or stagnant qi. Acupuncture can unblock
these meridians. This restores movement of qi and improves health.”
What is acupuncture?
07
Jan
