Metal needles are used to target specific areas of the body in this practice of natural healing. Thousands of years ago, acupuncture was introduced by the Chinese. This is also known to be part of Chinese traditional healing.
Theory and practice is what this type of holistic healing follows. The principles of Ying and Yang is used, and it is based on practice and theory. Pain within the body is often relieved when this method of healing is used. However, this is based on belief more than actual fact.
The body is charted according to the Chinese zodiac. Specific areas of the body are in line with the zodiac and the importance of the characteristic is somewhat similar. This holistic pattern follows solids and hollow, otherwise known as positive and negative or Yin and Yang. The practice of this healing method did not hit the western part of the world for many years. Although it is practiced in the western world, it is not as prominent as more traditional medicinal methods that is practiced by licensed practitioners.
Yin or solids are attributed to the organs in the body. Organs such as the brain, heart and liver are classed under the Yin properties in this form of alternative medicine. Other areas of the body that are attributed to the yan properties in acupuncture are the intestines and blood cells.
In the age of the dinosaur, bone and stone shaped instruments were used by those who practiced this type of healing. Only in the later years, when the introduction and production of various metals, did this change the type of material used in the construction of the needles. This form of healing is used in different localities around the world. Each of the different regions and nationalities use their own methods and beliefs in healing.
Although this type of healing is not known to cure most invasive diseases, studies have shown that acupuncture can often relieve patients of minor aches and pains. There are normally repeated visits to an acupuncturist, several times within a year, in fact.