The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Acupuncture
The Power of Touch

ORIGINS

Much like acupressure (see entry in this chapter), acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that is now used worldwide. The difference between the two? Needles. Acupuncture targets the same pressure points used in acupressure, but instead of applying physical pressure to those points, fine needles are inserted into the skin. But don’t be alarmed; the needles are so tiny that typically you don’t even feel them. The word acupuncture comes from the Latin acus, meaning “needle,” and pungere, meaning “to prick.”

HISTORY/LORE

The exact timeline of acupuncture is unknown, but it is believed to have developed out of the practice of acupressure somewhere between 2,000 and 4,000 years ago. Many Americans first learned about acupuncture by reading an article written by the journalist James Reston (1909—1995) that was published in the New York Times in July 1971. Reston wrote about his experience of having an appendectomy while visiting China and being treated with acupuncture for the pain following the surgery.

USES

While traditionally acupuncture was believed to be effective due to its interaction with chi (the “life force”) and meridians of energy, modern medicine has revealed that the practice stimulates the signaling systems of the body, including the nervous system, which is responsible for the way pain registers in our brains. Like acupressure, acupuncture has proven an effective technique for pain relief in cases where other remedies have been unsuccessful. Unlike acupressure, this is not something you can experiment with at home. Instead, make an appointment with a certified acupuncturist. While most people end up trying acupuncture as a last resort, it’s better to give it a try earlier in the process so that you can avoid the possibility of unnecessary surgery, prescription drugs you don’t need, and other unpleasant experiences.