Auricular Therapy
Auriculotherapy is the stimulation of specific points on the ear, which is believed to be a microsystem of the entire body. Auricular therapy is one of the more widely used microsystems within eastern medicine. Microsystems use one aspect of the body – for example, the ears, hands or feet – to treat conditions that are present anywhere in the body. Auricular acupressure may be used as a primary mode of treatment or in conjunction with other treatments such as acupressure, bodywork or herbal medicine.
How does it work?
Small black seeds from the Vaccaria plant or small metal beads or pellets or Swarovski crystals are secured on the ear with a piece of adhesive tape over specific acupressure points. The continuous mild pressure they exert is amplified by stimulating the seed or pellet with a few seconds of fingertip massage every few hours. Ear seeds are non-invasive, meaning, unlike needles or tacks, they are affixed on the surface of the ear and do not puncture the skin.
Auricular therapy can be used for conditions including:
- anxiety, depression, and insomnia
- physical pain such as arthritis, back pain, and sciatic pain
- headaches, including migraines
- allergies
- weight control
- addiction to drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes