In recent decades, acupuncture has become more popular in Western countries as an alternative and complementary treatment for many health issues, including heart health.
How Can Acupuncture Help Heart Health?
Research has shown that acupuncture may provide several benefits for heart health:
Lower Blood Pressure – Multiple studies have found acupuncture can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. By stimulating specific acupoints along the body, acupuncture may help regulate the sympathetic nervous system, reducing hypertension.
Improve Heart Rate Variability – Heart rate variability refers to the variation in time between heart beats. A healthy heart has higher variability, indicating it can respond better to stress. Acupuncture may activate the parasympathetic nervous system and increase heart rate variability.
Reduce Inflammation – Inflammation is at the root of heart disease and atherosclerosis. Some research shows acupuncture can reduce CRP and other inflammation markers in the blood.
Relieve Stress and Anxiety – Both emotional stress and anxiety negatively impact heart health. Acupuncture works to calm the mind and body by releasing endorphins and activating the parasympathetic system. This helps protect the heart from stress hormones.
Promote Sleep – Poor sleep is linked with heart disease as it increases inflammation and stress hormones. Acupuncture is known to improve sleep quality, which in turn supports heart health.
Research continues to uncover how impactful acupuncture can be in strengthening heart health through natural means. When combined with a healthy diet, exercise, and standard medical care as needed, acupuncture offers great promise to help keep your heart in top condition for years to come.