According to Professor Andrew Huberman, acupuncture has the potential to treat pain and fertility issues.
Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, but now Western medicine is starting to explore the scientific basis behind this ancient technique.
In the post, we will share Huberman’s insights from leading medical institutions, the benefits of acupuncture, and his recommendations.
Let’s get started!
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Huberman Acupuncture Pain Benefits
According to Huberman, research from Qiufu Ma’s lab at Harvard Medical School has uncovered potential mechanisms behind acupuncture’s pain-reducing effects.
Electroacupuncture stimulation of the legs and feet can activate neural pathways, leading to anti-inflammatory effects, which may alleviate certain types of pain. [Study]
However, abdominal electroacupuncture can either reduce or worsen inflammation and pain, depending on stimulation intensity.
This may explain why some people experience significant pain relief from acupuncture while others do not.
Overall, Huberman notes that the precise insertion of acupuncture needles activates sensory neurons, which reduces muscle tension, inflammation, and pain signaling. [Study]
This appears particularly helpful for tension headaches and back pain.
Enhancing Male and Female Fertility
Studies also indicate acupuncture can enhance fertility in both men and women.
In men, acupuncture improves semen quality and sperm motility by optimizing neural pathways and blood flow related to testicle function.
Acupuncture also increases testosterone levels in males. [Study]
In women, acupuncture regulates menstrual hormones, improves ovarian blood flow, and creates a better hormonal environment for conception. [Study]
For both sexes, acupuncture reduces inflammation and stress that can interfere with fertility.
Huberman Acupuncture Recommendations
Huberman expresses excitement that prestigious institutions like Harvard and Stanford are conducting mechanistic research on acupuncture.
He states that the growing scientific evidence could lead to greater acceptance and insurance coverage of acupuncture to treat certain conditions.
Huberman suggests that acupuncture may be worth exploring as part of an integrative treatment plan, especially for pain relief and fertility enhancement.
In summary, Huberman believes acupuncture is becoming mainstream as an evidence-based complementary treatment supported by clinical trials and mechanistic data.
