Objective: To demonstrate the regulative function of acupuncture at Neiguan Point (PC6) on normal subjects.

Methods: 304 college students were divided into two groups, and they gave manipulations to each other. After being sterilized conventionally, a filiform needle of 0.5 to 0.8cm in length was perpendicularly inserted into the left Neiguan point (PC6). After needling sensation was obtained, the needle was remained for 5 to 10 minutes. The pulse rates were measured immediately after needle withdrawal and 5 minutes later, respectively.

Results: In the 304 students tested, regulative function of acupuncture on the pulse rate was shown in 193 cases, amounting for 63.5%. Among the 193% cases, an increase or decrease by 5 to 9 beats per minute (b/min) of the pulse rate was found in 71 persons, making up 23.3%. The increase or decrease over 10 b/min was found in 40 persons (13.2%), that over 5 b/min during needling remaining and restoration after withdrawal in 82 persons (27%). The pulse rates ranging from 71 to 79 b/min (Group 1) were found in 101 persons. In 10 of them, the pulse rates increased over 5 b/min, accounting for 9.9%. In 89 persons, the pulse rates ranged from 60 to 70 (Group 2), in 19 of which the increase of pulse rates was over 5 b/min, making up 21.3%. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). In 14 of the Group1(101persons), the decrease was below 5 b/min, making up 13.9%. In 114 persons with the pulse rates of 80 to l00 b/min (Group 3), the decrease of pulse rates after acupuncture over 5 b/min was found in 47 subjects, making up 41.2%. A comparison between the subjects in Group 1 and Group 3 showed a significant difference statistically (P<0.01).

Conclusion: Acupuncture at Neiguan (PC6) produces a dual beneficial regulative function. The regulative function was greater for those whose pulse rates deviated from the normal range.

　　By Lin Hong.
　　Acupuncture and Massage College of Chengdu University of TCM, Sichuan 610075, China.