Objective: To explore the relationship between the stimulation quantum of acupuncture and its effect on red blood cell (Rbc) count in blood-deficiency rats. Methods:Seventy Wistar rats were randomly and evenly assigned to A (control)

B

C

D

E

F and G groups. Blood-deficiency model was established in all the animals by bleeding from the rat’s tail vessel (2 mL/time)

once every other day

3 times altogether. Rats of group B were just trussed up

and those of group C

D

E

F and G accepted acupuncture of “Zusanli”(ST 36). In group C

the needle was not manipulated after insertion. In group D

the needle was twirled for 0.5 min

half circle/time and 15 times/min. In group E

the needle was twirled for 1 min

1 circle/time and 30 times/min; group F 2 min

2 circles/time and 60 times/min; and group G 4 min

4 circles/time and 120 times/min. Blood samples were collected from the caudal vessels for detecting Rbc count under microscope. Results: After bleeding

the number of Rbc in all the groups except group G all increased significantly in comparison with pre-bleeding (P<0.05～0.01). After bleeding

the counts of Rbc in group D

E and F were strikingly higher than that in group B (P<0.01)

suggesting that small amplitude

low frequency and shorter duration of needling stimulation could promote production of Rbc. In group G

no significant change between pre- and post-bleeding

and no significant differences were found between group G and group B in the Rbc count

suggesting that bigger amplitude

higher frequency and longer duration of needling stimulation could suppress production of Rbc. It also displayed that when needling stimulation parameters were equal to or less than amplitude of 2 circles/time plus frequency of 60 times/minute and stimulating duration of 2 minutes

the red blood cell count increased considerably (P<0.01)

which may be a critical point for generating favorable therapeutic effect; and if stronger acupuncture stimulation was given

the red blood cell count would not change. Conclusion: In the treatment of blood-deficiency syndrome

the needling stimulating quantum is rather important

and there is a critical point. When the quantum of stimulation is equal to or below the critical point

the acupuncture may produce a reinforcing effect

whereas

if it exceeds the critical point

the acupuncture may produce a reducing effect.