Treatment originated in traditional Chinese medicine, which implies the existence of a vital energy called qui that flows through the body through lines known as 'meridians', and that by sticking needles into the epidermis (without crossing the skin) can modify the passage of the qui through the meridians to treat diseases. There is no scientific evidence that this actually exists, and some excuse is being brought from the hairs to justify acupuncture in the treatment of certain pains.
