Acupuncture, Humming (yes, humming), & Nitric Oxide

What's Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide (NO) is a compound in the body that causes blood vessels to widen and stimulates the release of certain hormones, such as insulin and human growth hormone. 

Nitric oxide’s physiological importance was officially recognized in 1998 when a Nobel Prize was awarded to three scientists who discovered that it’s a KEY MOLECULE in the cardiovascular system and helps keep blood vessels healthy and regulate blood pressure. Since then, NO has also been found to be essential in many other bodily systems (such as the immune system and the nervous system, including the brain) and in many ailments such as chronic inflammation, erectile dysfunction, and cancer. 

Acupuncture

Many studies have measured the increased rate of NO production that occurs under Acupuncture. 

In fact, recent findings suggest specific neural pathways that transmit acupuncture stimulation to distant body areas via the central nervous system, which may support traditional meridian theory! Because it's also found in the brain, NO can regulate your body's perception of pain. Hence, why acupuncture can benefit your health in both the short and long term.

Humming

NO is produced in the paranasal sinuses, a group of four air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. NO in the nasal airways could represent an important first line of defense against infection NO is known to be broadly antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial. And all these mechanisms are boosted 15 to 20 fold when you HUM!

Bottom Line

Acupuncture + Humming = more Nitric Oxide = better overall heath