Ear seeds - what are they?
Ear seed are small seeds or beads usually affixed to adhesive tape and placed on specific acupressure points on the ear. This practice derives from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
How do they work?
The ear in Chinese Medicine contains more than 90 acupuncture points for each specific area of the body. After the seeds are taped to the skin, they are massaged to act as acupressure, activating targeted organs or body systems to promote healing. This practice is also known as auriculotherapy. It revolves around the concept of the ear as a microsystem of the entire body, meaning that specific points on the ear correspond to various organs, systems, and functions throughout the body. The underlying principle of auriculotherapy is to restore balance and harmony within the body's energy systems. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) along meridians can lead to illness and imbalance. By stimulating acupoints on the ear, practitioners aim to regulate the flow of Qi, remove blockages, and restore equilibrium to the body's systems.
From a biomedical standpoint, applying fixed pressure to an ear seed sets off a chain reaction in the neurological pathways that connect the ear to the brain, and have been shown to reduce physical pain, boost immunity, and mental clarity.
Studies have also found that the pressure applied to ear seeds releases endorphins to the brain and pituitary gland.
What can they help with?
Pain relief: Stimulating certain points on the ear can help alleviate pain in different parts of the body, such as headaches, joint pain, or menstrual cramps.
Stress: Auriculotherapy can be used as a complementary therapy for stress relief and relaxation. Stimulation of specific acupressure points on the ear, which can activate the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin, leading to a reduction in stress hormones like cortisol.
Smoking: Ear seeds are used to help people quit smoking. Certain points on the ear are targeted to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. Recently there has been an increase of studies showcasing the efficacy of auriculotherapy in regards to quitting smoking- the results are incredible. However, it's essential to recognize that quitting smoking is a highly individualized process, and ear seeds are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive quit-smoking plan tailored to each person's needs and preferences. (If you are looking to quit smoking, please contact me for more information)
Improving sleep: Ear seeds can be used to promote better sleep by targeting specific points on the ear that stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, putting your body in a state of rest and digest aiding in a better sleep.
How fast do you notice the effects of ear seeds?
The speed at which you may experience results with ear seeds can vary depending on several factors, including the specific condition being addressed, your overall health, and your responsiveness to acupressure therapy. In some cases, individuals may notice immediate effects, such as a reduction in cravings or an improvement in symptoms, shortly after the ear seeds are applied. However, for other individuals, it may take several days or weeks of consistent stimulation before significant changes are observed. Additionally, the effectiveness of ear seeds may also be influenced by factors such as the quality of the seeds, the accuracy of placement, and adjustments to lifestyle or treatment protocols. Overall, while some people may experience rapid results with ear seeds, others may require more time and patience to achieve the desired outcomes. It's essential to approach ear seed therapy with realistic expectations and to communicate regularly with a qualified acupuncturist or TCM practitioner to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Directions:
Once applied, massage the ear seeds gently by squeezing or rubbing them in circular motions 2-3x a day for 1-3 minutes each time.
Ear seeds can fall out in the shower or during sleep, remove them with tweezers or your nails after 7 days if they are still on.
If you are feeling any discomfort after the ear seed are applied, remove them or apply less pressure when massaging them as to not damage the skin.
Can I get ear seeds during my acupuncture appointment?
Yes! Ears seeds can be applied during your acupuncture appointment with me, and we can customize which points to stimulate on your ear according to the alignments we are working on. Ask about ear seeds and how they can support you during your next appointment!