Electro-acupuncture helps fight Depression!

I’ve been using acupuncture on patients with depression to help them cope and balance their mind, body and spirit. Some patients are able to cut down on the amount of antidepressants they are taking and some are able to come off of drugs altogether (always consult with your doctor before changing any of your medications). A recent study now shows that electro-acupuncture has an antidepressant effect and prevents atrophy of brain cells. Electro-acupuncture is similar to traditional acupuncture, except that after the needles are inserted, they are attached to a device that generates a gentle electric pulse. Researchers have found that major depressive disorder is linked to glia cell atrophy. Glial cells are necessary for proper function of the central nervous system. Glial cells supply nourishment and oxygen to the brain neurons. Electro-acupuncture provides an antidepressant effect by its ability to prevent “glial atrophy in the hippocampus.” When glial cells are protected, depression can be mitigated. I will let you know what results I have on treating depression with electroacupuncture!