Assessment of the impact of acupuncture on peripheral blood flow with multi-channel photoplethysmography

Zusanli (ST-36) is one of the four most important acupoints in traditional Chinese medicine because it is believed to co-ordinate the functions of the immunological and gastrointestinal systems. According to the theory of Chinese medicine, acupuncture at that specific point can enhance digestive, circulatory, and immunological functions, thereby achieving disease prevention and promoting convalescence from various diseases. We, therefore, test the hypothesize that acupuncture at Zusanli may have significant impact on whole body peripheral blood flow by using data on pulse volume acquired through non-invasive approaches of photoplethysmography (PPG). The results demonstrated significant elevation of peripheral blood flow. In conclusion, the results of this study support the theory of Chinese medicine that acupuncture at Zusanli augments systemic gastrointestinal and circulatory functions.