Using acupuncture for digestive problems works by nourishing related organs, reducing inflammation of the stomach and pancreas and improving digestive functions. During a treatment, the practitioner will identify certain acupuncture points on the body, typically those that speed up metabolism, increase gastrointestinal muscle contraction and relaxation, reduce gastric acid secretion, regulate small and large intestine function, and restores stomach acidity to normal levels.
In conjunction with Chinese herbal medicine and stress reduction techniques, acupuncture for digestive problems is beneficial in the treatment of general gastrointestinal symptoms. In addition to acupuncture for digestive problems, moxibustion — a technique of applying the herb mugwort to acupuncture points — may also be utilized as an anti-inflammatory agent and to tonify imbalances. Individuals often experience long-term symptomatic relief with acupuncture for digestive problems, as well as decreased stress and improved energy.
Acupuncture for digestive problems may integrate recommendations for diet and lifestyle modifications in order to correct dietary imbalances and regulate digestion. The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture for digestive problems as an effective treatment for digestive imbalance.