Mechanisms of acupuncture and herbal medicine in hypertension
Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Acupuncture and herbal medicine have been of great benefit to Asian people for centuries. However, the discipline has not been subjected systematically and thoroughly to the rigors of scientific testing. Objective: This article reviews experimental evidence in regard to the vascular mechanisms of acupuncture and herbal medicine in hypertension. We focus on our hypothesis that acupuncture and herbal medicine reduce hypertension through activation of microvascular endothelial nitric oxide synthesis (eNOS). We also examine whether or not our results in experimental renovascular hypertension conform to the meridian theory. Results and conclusion: Acupuncture and herbal medicine 1) reduce experimental renovascular hypertension; 2) increase production of nitric oxide (NO), and contribute to vasodilation in the microvasculature and reduction of peripheral vascular resistance. We concluded that acupuncture and herbal medicine target eNOS and activate its signaling mechanisms, and that the benefits of acupuncture proceed along the meridian of the stimulated acupoint.
Source: Americanae (AECID Library)
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2097332825