Historical notes about acupuncture and related techniques

Introduction: the use of acupuncture and its related techniques is widespread in the modern world, so it is important to go back to its origins. This article aims to identify some elements related to the history and extension of this therapy to the West, as well as the background related to the medico-legal interest regarding the safety of its practice. Development: the first historical record related to acupuncture is identified in the Shi Ji, a text dating back to 90 BC. In the texts found in the Mawangdui tombs, which date back to the beginning of the 2nd century BC, reference is made to techniques such as moxibustion. Conclusions: there are records that evidence the process of its extension to the West from the 13th century onwards, according to the writings of William of Rubruk and Marco Polo. In particular, antecedents of the medical-legal implications associated with the practice of these techniques are identified from the time of the ancient Chinese empire.