One natural way to support recovery from alcohol or drugs is acupuncture for detox. Many people use it with other treatments to improve well-being. Acupuncture for pain management increased from 55% in 2002 to 72% in 2022, highlighting its growing role in holistic healing.

Here, you’ll learn how acupuncture aids detox, which points help, and how to find holistic care.

Acupuncture as an Ancient Healing Practice

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has been used for thousands of years. It involves placing thin needles at specific points on the body to promote healing and balance.

A Brief History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture began in China around 100 BCE. The earliest recorded system of diagnosis and treatment appears in The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine (Huangdi Neijing). Over time, it spread to Korea, Japan, and later to Europe and the Americas.

Scientific Research on Acupuncture

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health has explored acupuncture’s effectiveness. A 2018 review of ten studies involving 2,413 participants found acupuncture more effective than no treatment for osteoarthritis pain.

Another review of nine studies with 2,376 participants showed acupuncture worked better than placebo treatments. These findings highlight its potential as a complementary therapy.

The Connection Between Acupuncture and Detoxification

By stimulating certain points, acupuncture supports the liver and kidneys, which filter and eliminate toxins. This process can help the body detox more efficiently.

Key Acupuncture Points for Detox

• Liver 3 (LV3): Located on the foot between the big and second toe. It supports liver function, aiding detox.
• Large Intestine 4 (LI4): Found on the hand between the thumb and index finger. It helps eliminate toxins through bowel movements.
• Spleen 6 (SP6): Located above the ankle on the inner leg. This point supports detox by benefiting the spleen, liver, and kidneys.
• Kidney 3 (KI3): Positioned between the inner ankle bone and the Achilles tendon. It enhances kidney function for better toxin filtration.

Ear Acupuncture Points

Ear acupuncture is also used in detox and recovery. Key points include:

• Shen Men: Calms the nervous system, reducing stress during detox.
• Sympathetic Point: Balances the autonomic nervous system, aiding relaxation.
• Kidney Point: Supports kidney function to enhance detox.
• Liver Point: Helps the body process toxins.

The NADA Protocol and Its Effectiveness

The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol uses ear acupuncture to help people detox. Research shows this technique reduces cravings, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms.

Studies have linked NADA acupuncture to fewer positive drug tests, higher treatment completion rates, and improved patient satisfaction. It has also helped people stay in treatment longer and reduced opioid use in addiction recovery.

Benefits of Acupuncture During Withdrawal

Acupuncture may ease withdrawal symptoms and support recovery. Studies suggest it helps by:

• Reducing withdrawal symptoms: Research indicates acupuncture may lower alcohol cravings and withdrawal effects, making it a valuable treatment option.
• Supporting abstinence: A review of controlled studies found acupuncture aids people in achieving and maintaining sobriety.

Though acupuncture can help with detox, speaking with a healthcare professional ensures the best care.

Finding a Qualified Acupuncturist for Detox Support

Choosing the right acupuncturist improves your experience. Not all acupuncturists specialize in addiction recovery, so asking key questions helps.

Questions to Ask Before Treatment

• Are you licensed and certified? Confirm certification from a recognized acupuncture board, like the American Board of Medical Acupuncture.
• Do you have experience with withdrawal symptoms? Ensure they have worked with detox patients before.
• How many sessions will I need? A good practitioner provides an estimate tailored to your needs.
• Do you collaborate with other healthcare providers? Acupuncture works best with other treatments.

Finding the right acupuncturist can make a difference. At South Coast Counseling, we offer holistic treatments and can connect you with trained professionals who specialize in acupuncture for detox.

Find outpatient & virtual services at OceanRock Health.

Sources:

Smith et al. (2024) examine acupuncture’s role in modern pain management, highlighting its growing acceptance in the U.S. (Journal of Pain Research, 17, 3329–3354).

Jishun & Mittelman (2014) explore acupuncture’s historical roots, evolution, and future applications. (Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 3(4), 6–8).

Murray, Shurtleff, & Langevin (2022) assess acupuncture’s effectiveness and safety across various health conditions. (NCCIH).

Carter et al. (2017) discuss the NADA ear acupuncture protocol as a supportive therapy for addiction recovery, improving treatment outcomes. (Behavioral Sciences, 7(2), 37).

Jackson, Walters, & Raman (2020) analyze auricular acupuncture’s potential in easing opioid withdrawal in outpatient settings. (Medical Acupuncture).

Southern et al. (2016) conduct a systematic review on acupuncture’s effectiveness in reducing alcohol dependency. (Chinese Medicine, 11(1)).

Brewington, Smith, & Lipton (1994) evaluate controlled research on acupuncture as a detoxification treatment. (Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 11(4), 289–307).