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