Acupuncture and Herbs: Complete guide

Acupuncture and herbs are two ancient practices central to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While both approaches aim to restore balance and health within the body, they work through different methods—acupuncture through physical stimulation of specific points on the body, and herbs through medicinal compounds derived from natural sources.

Together, these two therapies offer a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing a variety of ailments by supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

This guide will explore their history, principles, applications, and how they can be effectively combined for optimal results.

Table of Contents

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient practice that originated in China more than 2,500 years ago. It involves inserting thin, specialized needles into specific points on the body known as acupoints. These points lie along pathways known as meridians, which are believed to carry the body’s life energy, or qi (pronounced “chee”)¹.

According to TCM, illness occurs when the flow of qi is disrupted or blocked, leading to imbalances in the body’s systems. Acupuncture works to unblock these pathways, restoring the flow of qi and promoting balance between the yin (passive energy) and yang (active energy) in the body²³.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

While the concept of qi may sound esoteric to modern readers, scientific research has offered explanations for acupuncture’s effectiveness. When needles are inserted into the skin, they stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, increasing blood flow and triggering the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms. This explains why acupuncture is widely used to treat chronic pain, including conditions such as migraines, arthritis, and lower back pain⁴⁵.

Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized acupuncture as a valid treatment for more than 40 medical conditions, ranging from digestive issues and allergies to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression⁶⁷.

Also read: Using Acupuncture to Treat Muscle Spasms and Cramps

What Are Herbs in TCM?

Herbs, in the context of TCM, are natural substances—mainly from plants but also from minerals and animals—that have therapeutic properties. Herbs are used in various forms, including teas, powders, and capsules, and are often tailored to the specific needs of the individual based on a detailed diagnosis. Unlike Western medicine, which often isolates active ingredients, TCM herbal formulas contain multiple ingredients that work together to balance the body’s internal environment⁸.

Common Herbs Used in TCM

Some well-known herbs include:

Ginseng: Often used to boost energy and enhance overall health.
Astragalus: Known for its immune-boosting properties.
Dang Gui: A blood-nourishing herb, commonly used in formulas for women’s health.

Each herb is classified based on its “four natures” (cold, cool, warm, hot) and “five flavors” (sour, bitter, sweet, pungent, salty), which help determine its effects on the body⁹.

Also read: Herbal Cancer Treatment: Does It Really Work?

Acupuncture vs. Herbs: Differences and Synergies

Both acupuncture and herbs aim to bring balance to the body, but they do so through different mechanisms. Acupuncture works on an external level, stimulating physical points to adjust the flow of energy and alleviate symptoms quickly¹⁰. Herbs, on the other hand, work internally, nourishing the body and targeting the underlying causes of illness¹¹.

In many cases, the two are used together. For example, acupuncture might be used to provide immediate relief from pain or discomfort¹², while herbs are prescribed to support long-term healing. A common scenario could be the treatment of chronic digestive issues: acupuncture may relieve bloating and discomfort, while herbal formulas address the root imbalance in the digestive system. By combining these two therapies, patients often experience faster and more sustained results.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is generally safe with minimal side effects. Some people may experience minor bruising or soreness at the needle insertion points. However, it’s essential to seek treatment from a certified and experienced acupuncturist to reduce the risk of complications, such as needle injuries or infections¹³.

Acupuncture may not be suitable for everyone, especially for¹⁴:

Pregnant women: Certain acupoints may induce labor.
People with bleeding disorders: Increased risk of bleeding or bruising.
Patients with pacemakers: Electrical stimulation used in some forms of acupuncture can interfere with the device.

Risks of Herbal Medicine

While herbs are natural, they are not always without risks. Some herbs can interact negatively with prescription medications or may be unsafe for individuals with certain health conditions. For example:

Ephedra, a common ingredient in weight-loss supplements, can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke¹⁵.
Aristolochia, used in some traditional remedies, has been linked to kidney damage and cancer¹⁶.

To avoid these risks, herbal treatments should always be prescribed by a trained herbalist who understands the complexities of TCM and modern medicine.

Pictures of acupuncture at different points on the skin

Combining Acupuncture and Herbs for Holistic Healing

When used together, acupuncture and herbs can enhance each other’s effects. This combined approach is often called integrative medicine, a method that looks at the patient as a whole rather than treating symptoms in isolation. In clinical practice, many acupuncturists also prescribe herbal formulas to their patients, particularly for chronic conditions where acupuncture alone may not be sufficient.

Case Study: Managing Stress and Anxiety

A typical treatment plan for anxiety might involve weekly acupuncture sessions to calm the nervous system, along with an herbal formula to nourish and strengthen the body’s ability to handle stress. Acupuncture provides immediate relief, while herbs offer long-term support by addressing the underlying imbalance in the body’s qi.

Finding the Right Practitioner

If you’re considering acupuncture and herbs, finding a qualified practitioner is crucial. Look for professionals who are licensed by a recognized body, such as the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)¹⁷ in the United States or The British Acupuncture Council in the UK¹⁸. It’s equally important to verify that your herbalist or acupuncturist uses high-quality, regulated herbs to ensure safety.

Conclusion

Acupuncture and herbs offer a powerful, complementary approach to healing that can address both the symptoms and root causes of illness. While acupuncture works quickly to relieve pain and restore balance, herbs provide long-term support for the body’s natural healing processes. When combined, they offer a holistic solution for those seeking alternative healthcare that goes beyond symptom management.

For those new to Traditional Chinese Medicine, starting with a consultation from a licensed practitioner can be a helpful first step toward understanding how these therapies might work for you. Always remember that individual conditions and needs vary, and it’s essential to seek personalized advice from professionals in this field.