The transport of extremely low-frequency electrical signals through an acupuncture meridian compared to nonmeridian tissue.

Abstract Objectives: This study investigated the manner in which extremely low-frequency (ELF) electrical energy is transported through biologic tissues, focusing on the differences between an acupuncture meridian and nonmeridian tissues. Design: Using inserted needles as the electrodes, the energy transport properties of the Large Intestine (LI) meridian were compared to a control channel that had the same length as the meridian channel and comprised similar soft tissue. Subjects: Twenty (20) participants were tested at the University of New Hampshire, Durham, with ages ranging from 22 to 60 years old. Intervention: A Gaussian pulse with spectral energy extending into the kilohertz range was launched using a low-impedance amplifier at the distal point on either the LI meridian or a nearby control channel. The signal launched was measured at the proximal point using a high-impedance instrumentation amplifier. The ground reference for both the launch and receiver locations was a needle inserted in the lower leg. After taking the Fast Fourier Transform, power spectral measurements were calculated, giving a single value representing power density of the measured potential in the 2-100-Hz range. Results: A paired, two-sided signed rank test was performed. For the data pairs in this study, p = 0.035, indicating that they are dissimilar with a statistical significance. Conclusions: The ELF electric energy is transported somewhat more efficiently through the LI meridian compared to a nonmeridian control. The results were not dramatic, with some participants giving greater values on the control channel, but they were statistically significant.

PMID: 21345090