Exploring the Science of How Acupuncture Works

“How does acupuncture work?”

It’s one of the most common questions we hear — and it’s a good one.

Acupuncturists often talk about qi (energy), meridians, and the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. But what does modern science say about acupuncture’s effects on the body? Over the past several decades, acupuncture has been extensively studied, and the results are remarkable. Research continues to confirm what patients already know: acupuncture helps the body heal.

Here’s what science tells us about how acupuncture works.

Stimulating Circulation

Acupuncture improves circulation by increasing blood flow in specific areas of the body. A 2012 study in Japan used color Doppler imaging to measure blood flow and found that different acupuncture points produced distinct changes in circulation.

For example:

• Liver 3 increased blood flow to the arteries behind the eyes
  
• Stomach 36 increased blood flow to the digestive system
  

This aligns beautifully with the way Traditional Chinese Medicine maps meridians and their therapeutic effects.

Boosting Nitric Oxide for Better Blood Flow

Acupuncture also increases nitric oxide levels at the site of needle insertion. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels, improving local circulation naturally. This is one reason why acupuncture is so effective at easing tension and supporting tissue healing — without the use of medication.

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to a wide range of health conditions, from pain to digestive issues to autoimmune disorders. Acupuncture has been shown to lower inflammation across multiple systems in the body.

A 2021 study highlighted its effects on the immune, digestive, respiratory, nervous, and endocrine systems.

A 2022 study found that acupuncture at the Stomach 36 point affected inflammation-related genes in tissues and organs.

This research supports what many patients experience firsthand: acupuncture can help the body feel calmer, less inflamed, and more balanced.

Relieving Pain

Because acupuncture reduces inflammation and increases circulation, it can provide effective pain relief for both acute and chronic conditions. And unlike the placebo effect, research shows these changes are physiological and measurable, not just a matter of perception.

Releasing Endorphins

Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins — the body’s natural painkillers. These chemicals not only ease pain but also create a sense of calm and well-being. A 2020 study even found that acupuncture and electroacupuncture helped people with acute opioid withdrawal by boosting the body’s natural endorphin production.

Regulating the Nervous System

Many patients say they feel deeply relaxed during acupuncture — and there’s a scientific reason why. Acupuncture helps shift the body out of the “fight or flight” state (sympathetic nervous system) and into “rest and digest” mode (parasympathetic nervous system).

• A 2022 review found acupuncture helps regulate the autonomic nervous system.
  
• A 2020 study showed acupuncture at the vagus nerve point on the ear significantly reduced heart rate.
  

This calming effect explains why acupuncture is such a powerful tool for stress relief, anxiety, and sleep support.

Calming the Mind and Modulating Brain Waves

Acupuncture has also been shown to shift brain wave activity from busy, high-frequency gamma and beta waves to slower, more relaxed alpha and theta waves — the same states associated with meditation and deep relaxation.

In fact, a 2013 study comparing acupuncture to clonazepam (Klonopin) for anxiety found that acupuncture was more effective at reducing anxiety — and increased alpha brain waves in the process.

In Conclusion

Acupuncture isn’t just an ancient healing practice — it’s also a modern, research-backed therapy with measurable effects on the body.

✨ It increases circulation

✨ Reduces inflammation

✨ Calms the nervous system

✨ Balances brain activity

✨ And supports the body’s natural healing abilities

For a deeper dive into this topic, listen to Episode 12 of the Notes from Your Acupuncturist podcast, where we explore the science of acupuncture in more detail.

Book your appointment online or call us:

• East Nashville: 615-457-1979
  
• Bellevue: 615-645-9866
  

We’re here to help you feel your best.