Acupuncture for Health: Reducing Cholesterol with a Holistic Approach

Centre Thought – Many people are likely familiar with acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique known for its ability to address various health issues. However, did you know that acupuncture can also play a role in reducing cholesterol levels?

This therapeutic process involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. Before beginning acupuncture treatment, it’s essential to review the patient’s laboratory results.

If the results indicate high cholesterol, patients are advised to adopt a healthier lifestyle first. Following this, the doctor will identify the appropriate acupuncture points based on the patient’s condition.

Can Acupuncture Help Lower Cholesterol?

Acupuncture is not simply about randomly inserting needles. In medical practice, it is believed that acupuncture can stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, prompting the body to produce natural pain-relieving substances. This method is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and can be performed by certified doctors in hospitals.

According to Dr. Luluk, there are numerous points on the body associated with cholesterol. “There are specific points we target to help lower cholesterol levels and alleviate symptoms experienced by patients,” she explains.

How Does Traditional Chinese Medicine Work?

According to a journal published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, there are intriguing similarities and differences between traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. Western medicine tends to separate diagnosis and treatment for each bodily system, based on reductionist principles.

Conversely, traditional Chinese medicine adopts a holistic and dialectical approach, where diagnosis and treatment are considered in relation to the body as a whole. One of the central concepts in traditional Chinese medicine is the balance between Yin and Yang.

Yin and Yang represent two opposing yet complementary forces, both in the human body and in the universe. Based on this balance theory, traditional Chinese medicine analyzes individual health conditions through the interaction of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth.

Moreover, traditional Chinese medicine also takes into account the balance of five major organs (Zang) — the liver, heart, spleen, lungs, and kidneys — as well as six supporting organs (Fu) such as the gallbladder, stomach, large intestine, small intestine, bladder, and triple energizer.

Additionally, there are extraordinary Fu organs, including the brain, bone marrow, bones, pulse, gallbladder, uterus, and ovaries. Traditional Chinese medicine focuses on balancing qi, blood, and bodily fluids, which are three vital elements that sustain life.

In the diagnostic process, this method involves four key steps: observation, listening, inquiry, and pulse examination. This approach aims to deeply and comprehensively analyze the patient’s condition, allowing for accurate treatment of any disruptions in the body in line with the philosophy of balancing Yin and Yang.

What is the Primary Goal of Acupuncture Therapy?

Acupuncture not only aids in lowering cholesterol but can also be integrated with modern medical treatments. According to Dr. Luluk, “Acupuncture can enhance the effectiveness of medications and reduce potential side effects.”

Thus, this therapy can be a highly effective complement to overall health maintenance. However, it is crucial to ensure that acupuncture is performed by qualified professionals with certification. This guarantees the safety and efficacy of the therapy for each patient.