Ear Acupuncture (Auricular Acupuncture)
In Auricular acupuncture therapy (ear acupuncture), specific points on the external ear are stimulated to promote health using either needles or press – seeds, which might remain in place between treatments prolonging the effectiveness of treatment. It is possible to relieve pain in any part of the body by stimulation of points on the skin of the auricle (external ear).
How does ear acupuncture work?
Auricular therapy is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It was expanded by Dr. Paul Nogier, who discovered that the ear is actually a micro-map of the entire body. The human ear alone has more than 200 acupuncture points. It is a self-contained micro system from which the entire body can be treated by stimulating an ear acupuncture point.
Ear acupuncture points may be stimulated for a longer period of time by using ear seeds or ear tacks. Ear seeds are small seeds from the Vaccaria plant. These seeds are held in place on the ear with a small piece of adhesive tape. Ear seeds may be left in the ear from few days or up to two weeks. Ear tacks are very small needles with an adhesive backing. They are inserted into the ear and can be left there up to one week.
What conditions can it treat?
This therapy can help to treat a very large amount of chronic complaints such as anxiety, drug and cigarette addiction, back pain, musculoskeletal pain, mood disorders, obesity and many other conditions.
Does it hurt?
No. Patient may occasionally feel tiny sting when the needles are inserted to the points. While using ear seeds there is no pain, but slight pressure sensation on the points. The seeds need to be pressed or massaged for a few seconds, 2-3 times per day for an extra stimulation.
