Though no study to date can explain precisely why acupuncture can relieve pain and alleviate illnesses, one thing is certain: its function is inextricably linked with the nervous system. Some biochemists still doubt its ability to produce changes in various glandular secretions, body fluids and enzymes, which is perhaps why its curative powers remain a mystery.
雖然到目前為止，各項與針灸有關的研究還不能具體說明針灸為什麼能抑制痛苦、治療疾病；不過，可以肯定的是，針刺作用與神經系統有著密切的關係；部分生化學家並且懷疑，針灸可能會引起人體內分泌和各種體液、酵素的變化，而這種變化正是針灸能治療疾病的奧妙所在。