In clinical trials acupuncture has been seen to affect the nervous system by stimulating nerves and connective tissue. And functional MRI brain imaging shows that needling a point stimulates the areas of brain associated with the functions attributed to it, such as digestion, pain relief and relaxation. Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own natural chemicals to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, releases neurotransmitters that affect hormones that relax the body and mind, and helps the body heal itself.