AP and the Cardiovascular System
SKIN
Ballegaard_S; Muteki T; Harada H; Ueda N; Tsuda H; Tayama F; Ohishi K (1993) Modulatory effect of AP on the cardiovascular system: a cross-over study. AETRIJ Apr-Jun 18(2):103-115. Dept of Anaesthesiol, Kurume Univ, Sch of Med, Fukuoka, Japan. The effect of AP on the cardiovascular system was studied in 23 healthy males in a cross-over design comparing AP and a placebo pill by measuring skin blood flow and the function of the heart. AP was found to have a modulatory effect on skin blood flow (r=-.68; p <.0005) and heart rate (r=-.56; p <.005), as well as Blood-Pressure-Heart-Rate-Product (r=-.70; p <.0002). The combination of rest and a placebo pill had no modulatory effect on skin blood flow, but did have a delayed effect on the heart when compared with AP. AP can enhance the regulatory mechanisms of the cardiovascular system. The possible underlying mechanism is discussed. The findings represent a physiological explanation for the possible utility of AP in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis in healthy people.
Suter_B; Kistler A (1994) [Does AP modify skin circulation via the ANS?]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr Suppl 62:36-38. F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Basel. Previous research indicated that AP modulates the cardiovascular system via the ANS. Blood vessels of the hand skin have sympathetic constrictor nerves only. Therefore, the possible effect of AP on the ANS can be investigated by measurements of microvascular perfusion and thermoregulation of the hands. Knowing the physiological effects of AP may help to improve acceptance of this unconventional medical approach.