Japanese researchers have found evidence that acupuncture points have specific actions on the autonomic functions of particular internal organs. Healthy volunteers were needled at four points: Neiguan P-6, Pishu BL-20, Zhongwan REN-12, Ciliao BL-32 and Zusanli ST-36. The scientists found that needling Zhongwan REN-12 increased heart rate variability (HRV), but did not affect electrogastrogram (EGG) signals. The converse was true for Ciliao BL-32, which changed EGG readings without affecting HRV. Stimulation of the other two points did not affect either parameter. (Site-specific organ-selective effect of epifascial acupuncture on cardiac and gastric autonomic functions. Auton Neurosci. 2013 Apr 1. pii: S1566-0702(13)00065-9).
Categories: Acupuncture research
