Acupuncture has been used in Asia for about 3,000 years. In 1997, The National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) agreed that acupuncture can help everything from insomnia to insanity.
The question is (always) how does acupuncture do that?
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is currently working on that answer.

Until then...........

You should not assume you need to have a medical condition to receive or benefit from acupuncture. The stress in our lives is the cause of most ailments. Acupuncture is excellent for reducing stress when used consistently over time. Like exercise, acupuncture is a lifestyle choice that reduces stored mental and physical tension. By reducing the tension in our bodies, we allow better, faster healing and mental clarity. If the body and mind are relaxed, everything else is put (back) into perspective. When the stress stops building like a snow ball,  balance is restored to the drained immune system or irregular digestion. 

Acupuncture is a "family" of procedures to help move the body's own energy.The body's amazing ability to heal itself is enhanced with each acupuncture treatment. The most recognized way of moving the energy is to insert sterile needles and leaving you to rest in a quiet space.

The other modes of moving energy include: using cups and spoons to rub over the skin. 

Burning a Chinese herb, called moxa, over acupuncture points can help warm them.

Electric stimulation can be applied to needles to help intensify the treatment.

Occasionally blood letting is necessary.

The stainless steel needles used in acupuncture are an FDA approved medical device and are immediately disposed of into a sharps container when removed.