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- March 19, 2021
Part 1 of Our Science Series | Learn about why sleep matters and how poor sleep can affect your physical health, mental health, and productivity. Learn the causes behind insomnia.
In a world filled with the hustle and bustle of daily life, where sleep often eludes those who need it the most, an ancient healing practice offers a glimmer of hope. Acupuncture, a centuries-old therapy, has emerged as a promising solution for those grappling with insomnia and the anxiety it brings.
Research suggests that this holistic approach can not only enhance the quality of sleep but also alleviate the burden of anxiety and depression that often accompanies chronic sleep disturbances. The power of acupuncture lies in its ability to tap into the body’s natural healing mechanisms, unlocking the secrets of sleep regulation and mood balance. In this exploration of acupuncture for insomnia and anxiety, we will delve into the specific acupuncture points that hold the key to a good night’s rest and a calmer mind. Join us as we journey through the soothing landscapes of Shenmen, Sanyinjiao, Neiguan, Anmian, Baihui, Sishencong, and Taicong โ acupuncture’s guiding stars in the realm of rest and tranquility. It’s important to remember that while acupuncture can offer profound relief, it should be administered by skilled professionals for the best results. So, let’s embark on this holistic voyage to discover the profound effects of acupuncture in the world of insomnia and anxiety.
Acupuncture has been found to be effective in treating insomnia and accompanying anxiety. It is suggested that acupuncture can improve sleep quality, efficiency, and latency in patients with chronic insomnia, and it can alleviate anxiety and depression in such patients. The treatment is associated with a significant nocturnal increase in endogenous melatonin secretion, which is a hormone that regulates sleep, and significant reductions in anxiety scores.
Acupuncture points commonly used for this purpose include:
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Shenmen (HT 7): This point is frequently used in combination with other points and has been shown to improve insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Located on the wrist, this point is often used to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation [1] [2].
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of acupuncture can vary between individuals and should be administered by a trained professional.
The exact mechanisms by which acupuncture improves sleep quality and reduces anxiety in individuals with insomnia are not fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed:
It’s important to note that these mechanisms are still being studied, and more research is needed to fully understand how acupuncture works in improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety in individuals with insomnia [8].
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The stimulation of specific acupoints is thought to modulate a wide range of neurotransmitters.
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Corticosterone (CORT): Acupuncture may regulate the levels of CORT, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Lower CORT levels can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. [9] [10] [11] [12]
The following are some research studies that have investigated the neuroendocrinological mechanisms of acupuncture in improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety.
A study by Zhao in 2014 reviewed the clinical applications of acupuncture in the treatment of insomnia and the potential mechanisms underlying the acupuncture treatment. The study suggested that acupuncture may modulate a wide range of neuroendocrinological factors, including norepinephrine, melatonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and ฮฒ-endorphin, which could potentially improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.
Another study by Liu et al. in 2022 conducted a randomized, single-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled trial on 60 patients with chronic insomnia. The study found that after acupuncture treatment, the decrease in serum corticosterone (CORT) and the increase in serum 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were significantly greater in the acupuncture group than in the sham acupuncture group. The study concluded that elevated serum CORT and decreased serum 5-HT levels may be associated with mood regulation disorders in chronic insomnia patients, and that acupuncture can significantly improve sleep quality and alleviate anxiety and depression in these patients. [7] [13]
Acupuncture is believed to modulate several neuroendocrinological factors to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety:
Corticosterone (CORT): A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Acupuncture may regulate its levels, with lower CORT levels reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. [7] [12] [14] [15]
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced practitioner. However, potential side effects or risks may include minor bleeding or bruising at the needle sites, dizziness or fainting, and the risk of infection if non-sterile needles are used. Serious complications are rare but can include damage to internal organs if the needles are inserted too deeply, or puncturing of the lungs leading to a collapsed lung, although these are extremely rare occurrences.ย
Some possible side effects of acupuncture may include:
It’s important to note that these potential risks are minimized when acupuncture is performed by a certified, experienced practitioner. [16] [17]
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