• Study Reveals Acupuncture Decreases Hypertension

  • Study Reveals Acupuncture Decreases Hypertension

    Researchers have discovered that regular electro-acupuncture treatment can decrease hypertension by increasing the release of enkephalin (a type of opioid) within the brainstem region that is responsible for controlling blood pressure. The research took place at UCI Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine.

    UCI cardiology researcher Zhi-Ling Guo performed tests on lab rats, finding that a reduction in blood pressure endured for three days or more after electro-acupuncture via the increase of the gene expression of enkephalins. This is one of the three major opioid peptides that the body produces.

    Breaking New Ground

    Their study can be found in Nature’s Scientific Reports. It’s making waves because it represents the first evidence of what happens on a molecular level as it relates to the effect of electro-acupuncture and its corresponding hypertension-lowering advantages.

    The UCI team formerly reported that patients treated with acupuncture in their wrists experienced lower blood pressure. The current study illustrates that repeated electro-acupuncture can bring about a long-term reaction in decreasing blood pressure in hypertension. This likely means that this type of therapy can be used in the future to treat cases of clinical hypertension.

    One third of adults suffer from hypertension, with stroke and heart attacks the top resulting factors. These huge public health problems may be alleviated, at least in part, through the application of acupuncture. This treatment presents far fewer side effects than conventional medicine.

    Contact Metro Detroit Acupuncture

    We can further enlighten you as to the benefits of acupuncture on hypertension when you call Metro Detroit Acupuncture at 248-432-2846. We offer clinically proven acupuncture in Southeast Michigan, so book your appointment today online or give us a call. We are Metro Detroit’s leading acupuncture, Chinese herbs and pain management clinic, led by Marino Moutafis, founder and owner.