What is the primary technique used in acupuncture?

The primary technique used in acupuncture is the insertion of needles into meridians. This practice is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and is based on the belief that these meridians are pathways through which vital energy, known as "Qi" (or "Chi"), flows in the body. By inserting needles at specific points along these meridians, practitioners aim to restore balance, improve energy flow, relieve pain, and promote healing.

This technique is designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and enhance overall well-being. The precision in locating these acupuncture points and the depth and angle of needle insertion are essential for achieving the desired therapeutic outcomes.

While the other methods listed have their own significance in various therapeutic practices, they do not accurately describe the primary technique of acupuncture itself. For instance, massage of pressure points can be part of other treatments like acupressure but is not acupuncture. Similarly, application of heat (moxibustion) and herbal supplement therapy may complement acupuncture, but they are distinct modalities that do not stand as the foundational technique of acupuncture.