Tracing The Origins Of Acupuncture, A Practice In Traditional Chinese Medicine

Tracing the Origins of Acupuncture

The use of alternative medicine has grown popularity in a majority of countries. It consists of wide variety of practices and products, including biologically plausible methods. Alternative medicine has branded itself as a practice of integrated medicine. It consists of a wide range of practices that claims to heal and may be based on traditional medicine like the Chinese Medicine. Some of the standard traditional Chinese medicinal practices include acupuncture, massage, and qigong among other practices. Acupuncture is one of the oldest practices in traditional Chinese medicine, although there are theories that it may have been practiced elsewhere in Eurasia during the Stone Age Period by the evidence of the mummified body of Otzi the Iceman which had tattoos around the areas where acupuncture needle are used. Some drawings and pictures from the era suggest that acupuncture may have begun around 600 BCE. Bronze might have been used as a needle although tin, copper, or gold may also have been used. These materials may have been replaced by steel when the method of producing steel was discovered, as steel was preferred because it could create fine and sturdy needles

Overview of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine whereby a thin needle is inserted into the body for pain relief. It is generally used in combination with other forms of treatment. Some research suggests that acupuncture can relieve pain although other research suggests that its perceived effects may be due to placebo. Acupuncture is only safe and benefits the body if it is done by well-trained personnel using a clean needle technique, avoiding infections and accidents due to the use of poorly sterilized needles or neglect by the practitioners. Acupuncture grew and diminished in popularity in Chine depending on the political leadership and the degree of acceptance of western medicine.

The Adoption of Acupuncture

Although acupuncture is heavily practiced in China, it is also popular in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Europe. It is one of the most common alternative medicine practices in Europe. In the UK, over 3 million patients receive Acupuncture treatment while in Japan the method is common among the elderly. Acupuncture is used at academic medical center and usually offered through pain management systems. Most countries which have adopted the use of acupuncture have set up regulatory bodies which regulate and supervise its use.