What is Auriculotherapy?
Auriculotherapy is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), rooted in the theory of the ear as a microsystem of the entire body, with specific points corresponding to the body’s various organs, metabolic functions, and anatomical structures. Points on the ear can be stimulated by acupuncture needles or ear seeds, with the goal of alleviating pain, improving organ function, and restoring balance in the body’s energy flow.
Below we’ll explore some of the history, theory and practical applications of auriculotherapy.
The NADA Protocol: Bridging East and West
Auricular acupuncture has been used in East Asia for centuries. It first became popular in the U.S. in the 1970s, when it was used in community-based drug rehabilitation programs at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx. Practitioners there developed the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol – a specific application of auricular acupuncture that focuses on addiction recovery, behavioral health, and overall wellness. This protocol consists of five points on each ear:
- Shen Men: Known as the “Spirit Gate,” this point calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and promotes relaxation.
- Sympathetic: This point balances the sympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
- Kidney: Linked to the kidney system in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stimulating this point supports overall vitality and energy.
- Liver: In TCM, the liver is associated with the smooth flow of emotions and detoxification. Stimulating this point can help alleviate anger and frustration.
- Lung: The lung point is connected to the respiratory system and the balances the emotions of grief and sadness.
The NADA protocol is often used as part of comprehensive treatment programs for substance abuse, mental health disorders, and stress-related conditions. It has been integrated into community health settings, addiction recovery centers, and disaster relief efforts worldwide for its calming and stabilizing effects.
For a fascinating history of the NADA protocol, including an exploration of how the Black Panthers and Young Lords led the efforts to establish acupuncture-based addiction treatments in their communities, we highly recommend the article “Unusual Tale of Acupuncture, Racism, and African American History in the USA” by Dr. Tenisha Dandridge, and the documentary film and podcast Dope is Death by Mia Donovan.
Beyond Addiction Recovery
The benefits of auriculotherapy extend far beyond addiction recovery. Research studies have shown other promising results:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A study published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2024 showed a reduction in PTSD symptoms for patients who received ear acupuncture over a period of 12-15 weeks.
- Chronic Pain and Insomnia: A study in Medical Acupuncture in 2018 administered ear acupuncture for members of the military. Those who received the treatment experienced improvements in both chronic pain and insomnia compared with the standard treatment.
- Depression: In a study published in Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2023, participants receiving standard auricular acupuncture reported a higher rate of symptom remission after three months, versus participants in the control group.
What are Ear Seeds?
Needles are just one tool in auriculotherapy. Ear seeds are another option – they’re small seeds or acupressure beads that are placed on specific acupoints on the ear and secured with adhesive tape. Ear seeds can be made from various materials, including seeds from the vaccaria plant or small metal pellets. The gentle pressure exerted by the seeds stimulates these points, promoting therapeutic effects throughout the body. This practice has gained popularity not only for its benefits but also for its convenience, non-invasive nature and minimal side effects.
Practical Application and Benefits of Ear Seeds
One of the most appealing aspects of ear seeds is their accessibility and ease of use. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which requires frequent visits to a practitioner, ear seeds can be applied at home once the points are identified by a qualified acupuncturist. This empowers individuals to participate actively in their wellness journey and manage minor health issues independently.
Moreover, ear seeds are non-invasive and generally well-tolerated, making them suitable for individuals who may be hesitant about acupuncture needles. They’re also a great option when traveling, or to extend the benefits of regular acupuncture treatments. They can complement conventional medical treatments or serve as a standalone therapy for conditions ranging from insomnia to digestive disorders.
Ear Seeds at Encircle
If you’re curious about trying ear seeds, we’ve got you covered! At Encircle Acupuncture we sell a variety of ear seeds, including traditional vaccaria seeds with flesh-colored or clear adhesive tape, or sparkly Swarovski crystal ear beads for those who want to add a flash of bling to their ears. We have an ear seed display station in our retail area where you can try them on for yourself, complete with laminated cards showing you where to place the seeds for various conditions (feel free to take pictures with your phone!).
Bottom line
Ear seeds and auricular acupuncture are safe and effective therapies for stress relief, addiction recovery, emotional balance, pain management, and more! Our Licensed Acupuncturists are trained in the use of auriculotherapy, and will often incorporate ear acupuncture into a treatment. These techniques offer gentle, non-invasive methods to support your journey to optimal health.
We’re here to help.
At Encircle Acupuncture, we’re here to help! Click here to schedule online or call us in East Nashville at 615-457-1979 or in Bellevue at 615-645-9866. We’d love to see you soon in one of our comfy recliners.
