Acupuncture is an amazing medicine and can do astounding things. However, there are some ailments where acupuncture has little value.

1. 1. Unsupported cancer treatments.
      
      
      Acupuncture and herbs should never be used as a substitute for chemotherapy or conventional treatments. One of my teachers, Dr. Gan, who was an actual barefoot doctor (link) said that acupuncture and herbs were simply too mild to be effective.
      
      
      Acupuncture is great as a supportive therapy and there are many studies showing its effectiveness in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy. It should, however, never be used without the approval of the supervising MD.

1. 1. Acupuncture for weight loss.
      
      Without an underlying imbalance, I personally have not seen acupuncture work in a reliable and consistent manner

1. Unsupported medication reduction.
   
   When a patient wants to reduce their medication, it is a conversation between them and their physician exclusively. Acupuncture can work as support but again, with approval of the MD.