Nitric oxide is known to be a signaling gas molecule that mediates dilation of blood vessels and thus is used to regulate blood flow and volume. A previous study showed how acupuncture can influence blood flow to different parts of the body. Link – Science validates traditional Chinese acupuncture

This experimental Korean study aimed to determine if there is a difference in nitric oxide levels directly at acupuncture points, compared to non-acupuncture points.

A very sensitive amperometric oxide sensor microsensor was used for this study.

The results showed a consistent statistical significant of higher nitric oxide levels around acupuncture points. This can be seen in the photo; the Heart meridian on the right hand side of the diagram shows green/ yellow/ red colours. On the left is the Lung channel, showing significant nitric oxide levels at Lung 8 and Lung 9. In the middle is the pericardium channel, showing concentrations of nitric oxide at Pericardium 6 and 7 point.

The report concluded that this tight relationship between nitric oxide levels and acupuncture points provides direct and scientific evidence on the physical existence of acupuncture points and may contribute to shedding light on their possible physiological/biological functions as understood in eastern medicine for centuries.

Ref : Measurements of Location-Dependent Nitric Oxide Levels on Skin Surface in relation to Acupuncture Point. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:781460. doi: 10.1155/2012/781460. Epub 2012 Sep 24

Rubrieken: Acupunctuur, Chinese geneeskunde, Opleiding acupunctuur, Traditionele chinese geneeskunde ~ Trackback