Acupuncture in treating hepatic fibrosis: a review with recommendation for future studies

Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2012 Jul 1;9(4):452-8. doi: 10.4314/ajtcam.v9i4.1. eCollection 2012.

Abstract

Hepatic fibrosis, as a major medical problem, is characterized with significant morbidity and mortality. Acupuncture has potential advantages in treating hepatic fibrosis as acupuncture functions well to reduce Qi and Blood stagnation, resolve stasis and enhance body immunity, which are important factors in treating hepatic fibrosis. The aim of this review was to appraise the current limited evidence of acupuncture in treating hepatic fibrosis from both animal experiments and clinical trials by using both Chinese and western databases and to provide recommendations for future studies.

Keywords: Acupuncture; hepatic fibrosis; review.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Therapy*
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / therapy*
  • Medicine, Chinese Traditional*