[Progression and reflection on the mechanism study of acupuncture and moxibustion in treatment of Crohn's disease].

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract that causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Researchers have been studying how acupuncture and moxibustion work to help people with this condition, and this review summarizes what they've discovered. The research shows that acupuncture affects Crohn's disease through two main pathways. First, it works locally in the intestines by balancing the gut bacteria, improving how intestinal cells function, and regulating immune cells that contribute to inflammation. Second, it works through the nervous system by affecting brain function and regulating the "brain-gut axis" - the communication pathway between your brain and digestive system that influences neurotransmitters. Clinical studies have confirmed that acupuncture can effectively relieve Crohn's disease symptoms in patients. The researchers note some differences between how acupuncture is applied in clinical practice versus animal studies, particularly regarding which acupoints are selected and treatment methods used. They suggest future research should focus more on understanding the nerve-immune mechanisms through the brain-gut axis system. This could help practitioners optimize treatment protocols for better results. For patients with Crohn's disease, this review provides scientific support for using acupuncture as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. If you're considering acupuncture for Crohn's disease, work with a licensed acupuncturist experienced in treating digestive conditions.

This review examines mechanisms underlying acupuncture-moxibustion treatment of Crohn's disease, identifying two primary pathways: local intestinal regulation and extra-intestinal neuromodulation. Local mechanisms include modulation of intestinal microbiota composition, regulation of intestinal epithelial cell function, and immunomodulation of local intestinal immune cells. Extra-intestinal mechanisms involve brain function modulation and regulation of brain-gut axis neurotransmitters. The authors analyzed discrepancies between clinical trials and animal studies regarding intervention modes and acupoint selection. They propose future research should focus on elucidating neuro-immune mechanisms within the brain-gut axis framework to optimize clinical protocols. Clinical efficacy has been confirmed in patient populations, with acupuncture effectively relieving CD symptoms. The review emphasizes the need for systematic investigation of the brain-gut axis to provide evidence-based guidance for treatment optimization. This synthesis provides foundational understanding for practitioners designing treatment protocols for CD patients incorporating acupuncture-moxibustion therapies into integrative care approaches.