Auricular acupuncture is the practice of stimulating specific points along the outer ear, and is viewed as a full body approach to healing. Commonly used to treat insomnia, anxiety, stress, or addiction, regulate the nervous system, and support bodily functions, it is a non-invasive and gentle treatment that offers numerous benefits. Each point is believed to be connected by nerves and reflex pathways to different parts of the body, like the head, heart, spine, liver, stomach, and practitioners will use fine needles, tiny metal balls, ear seeds, or gentle electrostimulation as techniques to treat a patient’s specific needs. This acupuncture technique is gaining popularity in both Eastern and Western health traditions by combining the knowledge of traditional ear mapping with modern neural connections.
Source: TCMstudent.com
How it Works
Cranial nerves like the vagus nerve, trigeminal nerve, and facial nerve all have branches that reach the outer ear, and when they are stimulated, parts of the brain that regulate mood, stress, pain perception, and bodily regulation are stimulated. Stimulating points on the ear sends neurological signals through the nervous system, switching into a parasympathetic state, which promotes rest and relaxation. Endorphins are released that reduce pain and discomfort, and enhance feelings of well being. Released neurotransmitters and hormones regulate mood, sleep, and appetite, and stimulation of the vagus nerve balances heart rate, digestion, and inflammation.
Physical and Mental Ailments
Auricular acupuncture is beneficial for individuals seeking a natural treatment with minimal side effects, those healing from trauma, grief, or addiction, those experiencing chronic tension or burnout from a high stress lifestyle, or those with hormonal imbalances.
● Stimulating the musculoskeletal points relieves inflammation that causes back pain, sciatica, or joint discomfort
● Treats migraines and tension headaches
● Eases symptoms like bloating, gas, or sluggish digestion
● By shifting and balancing hormones, symptoms of menstruation and menopause are lessened
● Stimulating facial nerve points releases jaw clenching and treats TMJ
● Certain ear points reduce the fight-or-flight response, easing feelings of anxiety and panic attacks, and encourages relaxation
● Feelings of depression and low mood can be eased by balancing serotonin levels
● Physical aid for processing and regulating emotions
Benefits
● Relief from chronic and acute back, joint, or muscular pain
● Reduced anxiety and stress
● Improved, more restorative sleep
● Enhanced focus and mental clarity, reduced brain fog
● Support through addiction or withdrawal by easing cravings during recovery
● Regulates digestion and metabolism, aiding in weight loss and management
● Increased blood flow and circulation
Home Practice
Stimulation of auricular points can be self administered at home through the use of ear seeds and an ear acupressure point chart. Ear seeds are tiny balls made of either a plant called vaccaria or metal, and are adhered to ear acupressure points with tape. They are then gently pressed throughout the day to stimulate the points, and are often used after an acupuncture session to prolong the healing effects. More accessible points to reach include the Ear Shen Men, which calms the mind, eases anxiety, aids in better sleep, and lessens stress, and Point Zero, which balances the body’s energies.
Whether applied with needles or ear seeds, stimulation of points along the outer ear can provide immense relief from physical, mental, and emotional ailments. TCM teaches that pressure points connect the body through nerve pathways, and activation of certain points can bring your body back to balance. With a detailed chart or with a practitioner’s help, this practice is accessible to anyone and can be self administered.
References
● https://burlingtonacupuncture.com/health-well-news/auricular-acupuncture-what-it-is-and-why-is-everyone-talking-about-it/
● https://acaacupuncture.com/auricular-ear-acupuncture-what-it-treats-how-it-works-and-who-its-for/
● https://www.emmaquine.com/auricular-acupuncture
● https://www.alldeepmassage.com/ow-give-yourself-ear-acupressure/