09/05/2026
The effectiveness of acupuncture may depend on many biological, physical, and psychological factors — not just the needles themselves.
According to these texts, the most important factor is the frequency of treatments. Receiving several treatments close together over a short period of time would generally produce better results than occasional sessions.
The authors also explain that substances such as caffeine (coffee, tea, and chocolate) may reduce some effects of acupuncture. One proposed explanation is that acupuncture increases adenosine, a natural molecule associated with relaxation and anti-inflammatory effects, while caffeine acts on some of the same receptors and may partially block its action.
Age, obesity, and overall health are also described as important factors. Younger individuals and those with fewer chronic illnesses may recover more quickly. The text also suggests that aging and obesity may reduce certain physiological effects associated with acupuncture, particularly the release of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule involved in blood circulation.
Lifestyle habits may also play a major role:
• sufficient sleep
• regular physical activity
• healthy nutrition
• lower stress levels
• avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and overwork
These habits are believed to support the body’s natural healing capacity and may improve treatment outcomes.
The texts also discuss the importance of the vascular system. Good blood circulation helps transport oxygen, nutrients, and various substances released during treatment throughout the body.
Another major topic discussed is the placebo and nocebo effect. Positive expectations toward a treatment can genuinely influence the perception of pain, stress, and well-being, while negative expectations may reduce perceived benefits or even worsen symptoms. The authors therefore emphasize that mental state, beliefs, and therapeutic context can strongly influence a patient’s experience.
The texts also note that some conditions may be more “healable” than others. For example, acupuncture may help relieve certain symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis without curing the disease itself.
Although many of the proposed biological mechanisms remain scientifically debated, these texts mainly highlight the importance of a holistic approach to health. Treatment frequency, lifestyle habits, psychological state, and overall health all appear to influence how the body responds to acupuncture.
Sources mentioned in the text:
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4664911/
• https://www.livescience.com/42430-placebo-effect-half-of-drug-efficacy.html
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfRVCaA5o18
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27145562
• http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/750786
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