In the present paper

the authors introduce the origin and development of scalp acupuncture

the theoretical basis including literature description

“functional orientation-projection hypothesis of the cerebral cortex” and comprehensive regulation

and bio-holographic theory; and review clinical treatment and researches on scalp-acupuncture treatment of cerebral hemorrhage in recent years. Scalp acupuncture originates from clinical practice in ancient China

and its theory is based on some descriptions in book Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Internal Classic). In 1970's

scalp-acupuncture therapy was set up under the inspiration of micro-acupuncture therapies (as ear-acupuncture

etc) combined with the study achievements of modern neuroscience and bio-holographic principles. Scalp acupuncture has achieved definite curative effect in the treatment of brain-originated paralysis and was expanded to be applied to the treatment of acute intracerebral hemorrhage in 1980's. Initial 8 clinical trials (randomized controlled trials included) of scalp-acupuncture treatment of acute intracerebral hemorrhage showed a good curative effect

which is closely associated with its favorable regulation on patho-physiological activities and blood brain barrier

regional cerebral blood flow

neuroelectrophysiology

immune function

and biochemical parameters

etc. Therefore

it is extremely urgent and necessary to carry out randomized

controlled and multi-centre clinical and experimental studies to identify its clinical effect and to clarify the related mechanisms.