Qi is manipulated by insertion of needles at the meridians. All needles used nowdays are disposable. Other related methods are Moxibustion. This brings warmth into the body and increases local circulation. Electroacupuncture is the mild electrical stimulation of acupuncture points with or without needles.
Acupressure is the pressing of fingers on acupuncture points.
It is used in place of needles for people who are very weak or overly sensitive to needles. In some instances pills or herbs are prescribed with acupuncture. Herbs are more potent than the pills. Some common herbs used in TCM in immune enhancement are, codonopsitis, astragulus, lycium and dioscoria. Contary to popular belief ginseng is not the first prescribed tonic herb.