Acupuncture and moxibustion are fundamental modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), designed to restore harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. Modern evidence increasingly supports their therapeutic impact through physiological and neurological studies, validating centuries of clinical experience.

 

 

 

1. What Are Acupuncture and Moxibustion?

 

 

Acupuncture uses fine, sterile needles inserted into precise meridian points to regulate the flow of Qi—the body’s vital energy. Moxibustion applies heat from burning moxa (dried mugwort) to stimulate these same meridians, improving circulation and supporting the body’s innate healing power.

 

In TCM theory, Qi flows continuously throughout the body in four dynamic directions: ascending, descending, entering, and exiting (sheng, jiang, chu, ru). These movements—known as the Qi’s regulation of ascent, descent, entry, and exit—are essential for maintaining physiological balance and mental stability.

 

When these movements become stagnant or excessive, physical and emotional disharmony arises. The purpose of acupuncture is to harmonize the ascending and descending flow of Qi, ensuring the proper circulation of energy, blood, and body fluids. By restoring this dynamic equilibrium, acupuncture not only corrects physical imbalances but also stabilizes emotional activity and calms the mind.

 

 

 

2. How Do They Work?

 

 

From a modern biomedical standpoint, acupuncture activates sensory nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, stimulating the central nervous system to release neurochemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These substances modulate pain, regulate mood, and enhance overall homeostasis.

 

Functional brain imaging shows that acupuncture influences regions related to pain processing, stress regulation, and emotional control—offering a physiological explanation for the ancient concept of regulating Qi’s ascent and descent. Moxibustion further enhances this process through gentle heat, improving microcirculation, boosting immune function, and accelerating tissue recovery.

 

 

 

3. Evidence-Based Benefits

 

 

Extensive research and clinical trials demonstrate that acupuncture and moxibustion are effective in addressing:

 

• Chronic and acute pain (lower back pain, neck stiffness, migraines, arthritis)

• Stress-related and emotional disorders (anxiety, insomnia, depression, fatigue)

• Functional dysregulation (digestive issues, menstrual irregularities, immune dysfunction)

 

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges acupuncture as beneficial for a wide range of health conditions, recognizing its capacity to restore systemic balance through measurable physiological effects.

 

 

 

4. Safe, Personalized, and Integrative Care

 

 

Performed by trained professionals, acupuncture and moxibustion are safe, individualized, and integrative forms of care. They not only target symptoms but also restore the natural rhythm of Qi’s ascent, descent, entry, and exit—achieving true harmony between body, mind, and spirit.