01/13/2026
While this article may be overstated, the article draws on real scientific findings. For example, stem cell release is real, a genuine 2017 study (not from 2025 or specifically from a "Taiwanese" China Medical University, but a collaboration including U.S. and South Korean researchers) published in the journal Stem Cells did find that electroacupuncture mobilizes mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into circulation in rats, humans, and horses. The ~300% increase figure comes from this animal study.
The actual research is more nuanced and primarily explores the underlying biological mechanisms in animal models. More research needs to be done but still exciting to see what this ancient medicine can do 💫
Taiwanese researchers discovered acupuncture triggering stem cell release healing damaged organs naturally. Scientists at China Medical University found that electroacupuncture at specific meridian points stimulates bone marrow to release mesenchymal stem cells into circulation, which then migrate to injured organs and promote tissue repair. This mechanism explains acupuncture's therapeutic effects through measurable biological processes rather than placebo.
Traditional Chinese medicine has used acupuncture for thousands of years, but Western medicine dismissed it as placebo due to lack of biological mechanism. Taiwanese researchers using advanced imaging and cellular tracking discovered that needle stimulation at specific points triggers measurable stem cell mobilization—providing the first clear biological explanation for acupuncture's effects.
Electroacupuncture (needles with mild electrical current) at ST36 (Zusanli point) and GV20 (Baihui point) causes a 300% increase in circulating stem cells within 24 hours. These mobilized stem cells express homing signals drawing them to damaged tissues—injured liver, heart, kidneys, or brain—where they differentiate into organ-specific cells and release healing factors. It's like acupuncture triggers the body's internal repair dispatch system.
Stroke patients receiving electroacupuncture within 48 hours of stroke showed 40% better functional recovery than those receiving standard care alone. Liver cirrhosis patients showed reduced fibrosis markers. Heart attack survivors demonstrated improved cardiac function. The mechanism is entirely biological—traced stem cells from bone marrow to damaged organs. Skeptical Western physicians are reconsidering acupuncture given this mechanistic evidence. We're discovering that ancient healing practices work through sophisticated biological mechanisms science is only now capable of detecting.
Source: China Medical University, Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2025
