Ear Seeds: Do They Really Work?
“Research suggests that ear seeds can be helpful in treating a variety of disorders including insomnia, PTSD, infertility, digestive issues, and anxiety. “ - Lauren Messelbeck, Owner and Acupuncturist at Life Point
Acupuncture ear seeds are part of a larger practice called auriculotherapy or ear acupuncture. In this practice, the ear serves as a microsystem of the entire body. The nerves from the ear connect with the reflex centers in the brain. These neurological pathways send messages to the spinal cord and the part of the body being targeted.
What are Ear Seeds?
Ear seeds are seeds, beads, or pellets held in place on the surface of the ear with adhesive. The small seeds have traditionally come from the flowering vaccaria plant. Self adhesive metal or ceramic beads are commonly used today.
How Do Ear Seeds Work?
In traditional Chinese medicine, your health depends on the flow of qi (energy) in your body. This energy travels along pathways called meridians or channels that are all named for the internal organs they connect to.
These channels are found throughout your body, including your ears. Seeds are placed on certain points proven to balance hormones, calm the nervous system, and clear stagnation in the affected channels. Resolving stagnation in these channels can help with a variety of health conditions.
A map of the ear is studied by acupuncturists as a microcosm of the entire body (an upside-down fetus). The lobe of the ear representing the head and face, the spine along the antihelix, and the feet at the top of the ear.
At Life Point Acupuncture Newport Beach, we commonly use auricular acupuncture to treat:
insomnia
depression
anxiety
stress
metabolic syndromes
supportive treatment for addiction and weight loss
It is believed that massaging the seeds improves peripheral blood circulation by delivering more oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This stimulated relaxation allows the body to digest food properly, think clearly, adjust to stressful environments, sleep soundly, and naturally resolve inflammation.
Where do I get ear seeds?
You can request ear seeds next time you are in to see your Life Point acupuncturist. Ear seeds can also be purchased online and you can consult with your acupuncturist through a zoom meeting so we can help you with application, review the symptoms you’d like to address, and determine the correct points for proper placement. Book an appointment with our practitioners at Life Point for a consultation today.
HOW TO APPLY EAR SEEDS
1) Swab the outside of the ear with alcohol as it should be clean and dry. Most ear seeds come attached to adhesive tape.
2) Tweezers are used to apply the seeds, and then gently press into place.
3) Massage the seeds two or three times each day or when you have symptoms. Pressure can be applied by rubbing the seeds in a circular motion for several seconds.
Be sure to change your seeds regularly. They may fall off on their own after several days if you exercise and shower frequently. Do not leave the seeds on for more than 2-3 weeks. They can be removed with tweezers or with your fingernail. If the skin where the seed was placed is aggravated, let your skin rest for at least eight hours before applying them again.
Are EAR SEEDS safe?
Ear seeds are a noninvasive treatment which is safe and effective. Since they don’t require the use of needles, there is low risk of infection or bleeding. It is also a great way to introduce the benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine to children or those with needle phobia.
If you have sensitive skin or a latex allergy, metal seeds or the adhesive tape may cause irritation. If you massage the seeds too frequently you may develop small sores around the seeds. This may also occur if the ear has not had enough time to rest before applying new seeds.
COMMONLY USED Points
The ear is a tiny map for the whole body. Hundreds of acupuncture points in the ear correspond to just about every organ, hormone and system in the body. Here are two foundational points:
Shen Men is the Spirit Gate or Neurogate. Pressure on this point calms an overactive mind. This point is also powerful in treating pain and tension all over the body. This point can also combat low energy or sluggish thinking.
Point Zero is the ear center or Solar Plexus. Pressure on this point supports good digestion and organ function. This point is commonly used to balance hormones and treat disruptions in neural integration (ADD/ADHD, PTSD, OCD, stuttering, dyslexia).
Ear seeds are a safe and effective tool for stimulating acupressure points in your ear. Auriculotherapy can be used to improve the body’s flow of energy, balance hormones, and regulate your nervous system. They are a great way to extend the benefits of your acupuncture treatment or treat yourself at home if you are practicing social distancing. Order your seeds online and book a consultation with your Life Point acupuncturist so we can provide the points most beneficial for you.
As always, if you have any questions about ear seeds, feel free to ask your acupuncturist of contact us.