Is acupressure supported by scientific evidence?
Acupressure is a form of alternate therapy, a traditional Chinese therapy, where manual pressure is applied to stimulate specific points along the body. Acupressure points is thought to lie along the energy channels of your body, through which your life force (or 'qi') flows. Traditional acupressure (and acupuncture) theory states that if one of these channels is blocked or if there exists a imbalance, disease can result.
There is some scientific evidence suggesting that acupressure does treat some conditions. It has been used to treat insomnia patients with benefits lasting long term (1) and improve sleep quality in patients with end stage renal disease (2). It has also been show to reduce morning sickness, anxiety and depression in pregnant women (3). There hasn't been a lot of research done into the validity of acupressure on preventing hair loss and stimulating hair growth. However, acupressure is a free (if you do it yourself), zero-risk procedure (provided you are not poking your eyes out!), so what do you have to lose!
