Acupuncture Suppresses Epilepsy

Acupuncture Suppresses Epilepsy 

Acupuncture suppresses epilepsy and benefits sleep. Researchers tested electroacupuncture in a laboratory experiment to determine the effects of low-frequency (10 Hz) simulation of acupoint GB20 (Fengchi) on epilepsy. Electroencephalogram (EEG) results demonstrate that electroacupuncture significantly suppresses brain epileptiform discharges and simultaneously improves sleep patterns. In addition, the researchers discovered a biochemical mechanism responsible for acupuncture’s therapeutic effects.

The researchers note that acupuncture’s ability to reduce epilepsy and associated sleep disruptions has important therapeutic implications. The researchers state that a procedure that suppresses epilepsy and improves sleep is “optimal for seizure control.” The modern research has an historical basis. The investigators note that an ancient Chinese classic, the Lingshu Jing, documents acupuncture’s ability to suppress epileptic seizures and reduce insomnia. This modern experiment confirms principles and indications written in the Lingshu Jing, the Spiritual Pivot.

Citing both clinical and experimental investigations, the researchers note that “epilepsy and sleep reciprocally influence each other.” They add that temporal lobe related epilepsy is related to sleep fragmentations and decreases in sleep efficiency. Frontal lobe related epilepsy is related to “sleep instability and arousal fluctuations.” Rapid eye movement (REM) “sleep decreases seizure susceptibility.” The lab experiment demonstrates that acupuncture improves sleep while simultaneously suppressing epilepsy.

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