Is there any benefit of Acupuncture for nausea relief? Queasiness, nausea and feeling poorly may come on with high stress situations, certain illnesses, during the first trimester of Pregnancy or post-surgery. Nausea is an area where much research has been done on Acupuncture. This blogpost will look at how acupuncture for nausea relief, may assist.
Acupuncture has been used as a complementary therapy for nausea relief[1]. It is believed that acupuncture stimulates certain points on the body, known as acupoints, to restore balance and promote the flow of energy[1].
This interacts with the Brain and Nervous system to regulate certain physiological processes such as gastric juices, blood pressure, nerve excitability and muscle tension.
In medical terms it is aiming to help homeostasis. Homeostasis according to Web MD is defined as "The state of balance within all physical systems needed for a body to function properly and survive.
In a state of homeostasis, body levels are constantly adjusting in response to changes outside and inside the body."
The importance of Spleen Qi in Chinese Medicine
Nausea in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) relates to the strength of the Spleen Qi. When the Spleen Qi is weak it can be subject to what we call in TCM 'Rebellious Qi'.
The digestive energy travels from the mouth, south to the stomach, gut and finally eliminated. If the Qi is stuck, it can present as Rebellious Qi. This means, be redirected in the opposite direction from the Stomach up to the mouth and this is what happens in the case of nausea and vomiting.
The treatment strategy with a Registered Acupuncturist would focus on strengthening the Spleen Qi, Calming the Liver Qi and using the research backed points for nausea.
Nausea in Chemotherapy or Pregnancy
Research indicates that acupuncture may be effective in reducing nausea related to various conditions, such as pregnancy-induced morning sickness and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting[1]. Acupuncture can be performed by inserting thin needles into specific acupoints on the body, including the wrist, lower arms, and abdomen[1][5].
Studies have shown promising results in using acupuncture to manage nausea[1][5]. For example, a study found that acupuncture significantly reduced nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy[3]. Another study suggested that acupuncture was effective in relieving morning sickness in pregnant women[1][4].
Hyperemesis during Pregnancy
Hyperemesis in Pregnancy is a severe and chronic case of morning sickness. We are not claiming that Acupuncture can fix Hyperemesis or morning sickness. But it may take the edge off and help manage intense fluctuations during these conditions.
For a client vomiting every day of their pregnancy, a reduction in symptoms or intensity, even for a temporary period of time is often welcomed by the woman.
When considering Acupuncture, seeking experienced, registered (Aus) practitioners, is recommended. They will be able to assess your specific condition and develop an individualised treatment plan. I have been in practice since 2003 and am based on Sydney's Northern Beaches in Brookvale and Terrey Hills, so to make an appointment ONLINE, BOOK HERE.
Here are some other posts about nausea:
Acupuncture to support nausea in Cancer patients
