Several processes, mechanisms have been proposed to explain acupuncture’s effects, primarily those on pain. Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either change the experience of pain or release other chemicals, such as hormones, that influence the body’s self-regulating systems. The biochemical changes may stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being.

There are three main mechanisms:

  1. Conduction of electromagnetic signals1:
    Western scientists have found evidence that acupuncture points are strategic conductors of electromagnetic signals. Stimulating points along these pathways through acupuncture enables electromagnetic signals to be relayed at a greater rate than under normal conditions. These signals may start the flow of pain-killing biochemicals, such as endorphins, and of immune system cells to specific sites in the body that are injured or vulnerable to disease.
  2. Activation of opioid2 systems:
    Research has found that several types of opioids may be released into the central nervous system during acupuncture treatment, thereby reducing pain.
  3. Changes in brain chemistry, sensation, and involuntary body functions:
    Studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters3 and neurohormones4in a good way. Acupuncture has been documented to affect the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes whereby a person’s blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature are regulated.

1 Electromagnetic Signals
Every living organism on our planet is surrounded with energy in form of the signal environment. This energy is produced by him as result of essence of his living and survival. Man itself is emanating energy; however, it is necessary to remember how weak this field is. Signals emitted by the brain constitute one component of this energy. It concerns Extremely Low Frequencies – ELF.

2 Opioids
They are psychoactive chemicals that resemble morphine or other opiates in its pharmacological effects.

3 Neurotransmitters
They are the chemicals that allow the transmission of signals from one neuron to the next across synapses.

4 Neurohormones
They are secretions of endocrine glands that are t