Effects of catgut-embedding acupuncture technique on nitric oxide levels and blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension

Abstract

Abstract. Hypertension is common a health problem and its prevalence in Indonesia is quite high (31.7%). Catgut embedding-an acupuncture technique-is known to reduce blood pressure; however, no study has confirmed the underlying mechanism. This study examines the effect of catgut embedding on serum nitric oxide (NO) concentration and blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Forty hypertension patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the control group received anti-hypertensive drugs whereas the case group received anti-hypertensive drugs and catgut embedding. Results showed a statistically significant mean difference in NO concentration (p < 0.05) and statistically and clinically significant mean difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure between the two groups (p < 0.05). The results confirm that catgut embedding can influence serum NO concentration and blood pressure in essential hypertension patients.