Objective : Acupuncture has been used a useful tool for treatment of mental diseases including drug addiction. However, the effects of acupuncture on the cognitive functions are not clear. In the present study, we reviewed the role of acupuncture on the cognitive functions. Methods : We searched research and review articles with ‘acupuncture, cognitive functions or cognitive impairment’ key word in Pubmed and RISS sites. Results and conclusion : Cognitive impairments are produced in many of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, prefrontal cortex or lateral habenula region in the brain is involved in cognitive functions. Acupuncture showed the therapeutic effect on cognitive functions in some diseases. Taken together, acupuncture can ameliorate cognitive impairments possibly through regulation of prefrontal cortex or later habenula region of brain.