The Science
With new technology called the FMRI (Functional magnetic resonance imaging) an abundance of studies have been published within the last decade. These studies have shown that acupuncture indices different effects on the human brain as displayed through use of FMRI machines.
Studies using FMRI found that acupuncture can induce different effects on the brain and can be used to:
Decrease pain by Increasing endogenous opioids: (enkephalins and endorphins- Which are stronger than morphine!)
Increasing serotonin- a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of happiness.
Protect the brain- Has neuroprotective effects :Inhibits neurodegeneration. (Via expression and activation of brain derived neurotrophic factor -BDNF).
Reduce blood flow to the amygdala (fear centre of the brain) and Increase cerebral blood flow.
Reduce blood flow to the prefrontal cortex. (Pain processing, overthinking over analyzing part of the brain).
Increase nitric oxide levels resulting in increased local circulation. (Has vasodilation effects).
Anti inflammatory effects: by decreasing levels of pro inflammatory cytokines In the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
Research Studies
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Pain alleviation
Acupuncture and acupressure greatly reduced pain in cancer patients. Combining both therapies may help lower opioid use in patients.
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Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN) significantly impacts cancer patients, leading to functional disability and diminished quality of life. Auricular point acupressure (APA), a non-invasive and non-pharmacological alternative, has shown potential for alleviating the pain, numbness, and tingling associated with CIN.
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Pain Management
Used in the US military , a specific form of auricular acupuncture known as Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) is a specific protocol to ease pain.
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Insomnia
Auriculotherapy protocols were demonstrated to be a well-received treatment modality with minimal adverse effects and effectively improved sleep conditions of the elderly with insomnia.
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Symptom reduction in breast cancer patients
The delivery of auricular acupuncture during chemotherapy infusion was associated with reduction of symptom burden, anxiety, and nausea in breast cancer patients.
Your health is in your hands.
AcuKITS™
AcuKITS™ offer a needle-free approach to alleviate side effects often associated with cancer treatment and chronic illness. These convenient at-home kits harness the power of both auriculotherapy and acupressure, stimulating specific acupuncture points to naturally reduce discomfort and enhance overall well-being.
