Use of acupuncture in addictions. Distinctive at Den Rooy Clinics.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine has its own explanation for how acupuncture works. The theory of traditional Chinese medicine is based on the concept of yin and yang, which are dynamic and complementary opposites that occur in all natural processes. In a healthy individual, yin and yang are in balance. Addicts often suffer from a deficiency of yin. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, which metaphorically approaches the body, yin is related to substance, tranquility, and the element of water. Yang is related to function, activity, and the element of fire. Yin nourishes while yang consumes. When there is a shortage of yin, or the water element, the fire of yang is not controlled. Because this yang fire is the product of deficiency, it is called empty fire. The fire has no substance or substance to feed on. Psychologically, this imbalance creates a feeling of emptiness and despair. Physiologically this manifests itself in hyperactivity. The addict is incited to use and abuse, but the drug fuels the fire and further decreases yin, causing the addict's sense of strength from the drug to disappear more and more quickly, leading to greater despair.

The treatment

The treatment consists of feeding yin by treating the addict with ear acupuncture. Short, thin, sterile needles are inserted into three to five points. The treatment often has a calming and relaxing effect on body and mind. Three of the five acupuncture points strengthen the liver, kidneys and lungs, which are the main organs for excretion. In addicts, these organs are usually the most affected because they have been exposed for a long time to excreting the excessive toxins from the body.

(source: http://acupuncturehealingarts.com/addiction.html)