In the quest for sustainable and drug-free solutions to boost animal appetite and productivity, a groundbreaking systematic review published in *Jurnal Medik Veteriner* (translated as *Journal of Veterinary Medicine*) has shed light on the potential of acupuncture. Led by Elham Zahrudin from the Division of Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Airlangga in Indonesia, the research offers a promising alternative to traditional pharmacological methods, which often raise concerns about drug residues and antimicrobial resistance.
The study, which complied with PRISMA guidelines, analyzed 27 original research articles published between 2013 and 2025. These studies investigated the effects of acupuncture on feed intake, appetite behavior, and appetite-related biomarkers across various animal species. The findings revealed that 81.5% of the studies demonstrated a significant increase in appetite or feed intake following acupuncture, particularly when electroacupuncture was applied to acupoints ST36 and SP6.
“This systematic review highlights the potential of acupuncture as a non-pharmacological intervention to enhance animal appetite,” said Zahrudin. “The results suggest that acupuncture can offer a sustainable and welfare-friendly approach, compatible with organic and drug-free production systems.”
The research also delved into the hormonal changes associated with acupuncture, revealing increased levels of ghrelin and neuropeptide Y and reduced cortisol concentrations. These findings point to the neuroendocrine regulation mechanisms underlying the observed improvements in appetite.
The study found that poultry and swine responded most rapidly to acupuncture treatment, while ruminants showed gradual but sustained improvements. This variability underscores the need for species-specific protocols and further research to optimize acupuncture techniques for different types of livestock.
The implications for the agricultural sector are substantial. As the demand for organic and sustainably produced animal products continues to grow, farmers and producers are increasingly seeking alternatives to conventional pharmacological stimulants. Acupuncture, with its potential to enhance animal welfare and productivity, could play a pivotal role in meeting these demands.
“Acupuncture offers a promising avenue for improving animal health and productivity in a sustainable manner,” Zahrudin noted. “However, further standardized, large-scale studies are needed to establish clinical protocols and confirm long-term efficacy.”
The research published in *Jurnal Medik Veteriner* not only provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of acupuncture research in veterinary medicine but also paves the way for future developments in this field. As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, the integration of acupuncture into standard practices could revolutionize animal husbandry, promoting both economic and environmental sustainability.
In the broader context, this study underscores the importance of exploring alternative, non-pharmacological interventions in animal health. By doing so, the agricultural sector can address the growing concerns about drug residues and antimicrobial resistance while enhancing animal welfare and productivity. The findings of this systematic review offer a compelling case for the adoption of acupuncture as a valuable tool in the pursuit of sustainable and ethical agricultural practices.