BDNF and dementia: Some studies have suggested that acupuncture may aid in the treatment of cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment.8–10 It has also been found to improve cognitive function and reduce depressive symptoms.11 Acupuncture may stimulate the release of substances like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF),9 which is crucial for neural plasticity, supporting the growth of new neurons in the brain.