Acupuncture as a Complementary Therapy for Depression
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53366/jimki.v12i3.1063Keywords:
Acupuncture, Depression, Complementary TherapyAbstract
Introduction: Depression is a psychiatric condition characterized by persistent low mood, reduced interest in daily activities, and impaired social functioning. Although pharmacological therapy and psychotherapy are commonly used, the results are not optimal for all patients. This has led to increased interest in complementary therapy approaches, one of which is acupuncture.
Method: A narrative systematic review was conducted by searching articles from the PubMed database using the keywords “acupuncture,” “depression,” and “complementary therapy.” Ten RCT studies discussing acupuncture as primary or adjunctive therapy were analyzed. Descriptive analysis was performed based on changes in depression symptom scores, therapy frequency, and the acupuncture techniques used.
Discussion: The results indicate that acupuncture significantly reduces depression symptoms, both through subjective measurements (HAMD, BDI scales) and objective biological markers such as improved hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and enhanced neuroplasticity. Therapy administered at least three times per week over six to eight weeks yielded more effective results. Additionally, electroacupuncture and scalp acupuncture techniques produced faster and more profound clinical responses compared to traditional manual acupuncture.
Conclusion: Acupuncture is a complementary intervention for the treatment of depression, with mechanisms of action involving modulation of the central nervous system and neuroendocrine balance. Further research is needed to establish standardized clinical practice guidelines and evaluate the long-term impact on patients' mental health.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Sarah Angie Sihotang, Made Kurnia Widiastuti Giri, I Gede Yogi Lingga Pradipa, Riska Ramadona. H, I Putu Esa Ika Putra Juni Artana, I Made Bagus Krishna Wiguna
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