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Acupuncture -

In Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the body is made up of lines called meridians. These pathways are how energy flows through the body, known as qi (chi).

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Acupuncture -

Acupuncture inserts needles into specific points in these pathways, to help with the flow of energy. Similarly, acupressure involves applying pressure to points in the pathway, to stimulate movement.

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Auriculotherapy -

Auriculotherapy uses the acupressure points in the ear to encourage the flow of energy in other points in the body. By stimulating a particular energy channel using pressure, needles aren't required.

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Ear seeds -

The premise is: tiny ear seeds are placed on acupressure points on the outer ear, stimulating nerve pathways to your brain.

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Ear seeds -

These signals prompt your body's natural healing mechanisms to begin working. And while ear seeds might seem like something new, they actually have a long history.

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Celebrity following -

Some of the earliest mentions of ear seeding date back to 221 BCE, but the treatment has gained more attention thanks to celebrity fans including Gwyneth Paltrow and Penélope Cruz.

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Wellness culture - Wellness culture has increased an appetite in the general public for natural, complementary therapies that help support the body to work at its most efficient.

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Seed materials -

Traditionally, seeds of the vaccaria plant (which is said to have blood-moving properties) are applied to the outer ear acupressure points.

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Seed materials -

However, modern ear seed treatments typically come in a variety of different materials, such as stainless steel, gold, silver, or even magnets.

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Taping -

After their application to the pressure points, they are usually held in place by the application of waterproof tape, and stay on your ears for up to a week.

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On-the-go acupuncture -

Ear seeding is said to provide a kind of acupuncture on-the-go, as what's provided is a gentle yet constant stimulation of the pressure point.

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Application -

Depending on the needs of the client, between two and five ear seeds might be applied to the ears for best results, mixing and matching the health concerns they wish to target.

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The entire body and its systems -

Ear seeding is based on the belief that your entire body and its systems (nervous, reproductive, digestive, etc.) are represented in your ear.

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The entire body and its systems -

To proponents, it's claimed the ear looks like an upside-down fetus. The earlobe represents the head, while along the ridges of the ear are representations of the body and internal organs.

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Microsystem -

This is referred to as a "microsystem" approach, one where the entire body can be mapped onto a smaller body part. For example, other microsystems would include the feet, scalp, and hands.

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Acupressure points -

There are more than 120 acupressure points on the ear. It's claimed using ear seeds to stimulate these points can address a number of health concerns.

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Claims -

Ear seeds are alleged to be beneficial for people suffering with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, substance abuse, insomnia, and migraines.

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Lower back pain -

A small study in 2013 looked at people living with chronic lower back pain. The results suggested ear seeds could help reduce pain and increase mobility.

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Pain tolerance -

A study in 2015 examined the pain threshold of a sample of people both before and after using ear seeds. While the results suggested their use could increase pain tolerance, everyone's experience of pain is subjective, and tolerances vary.

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Endorphin release -

Auriculotherapy is meant to promote the release of natural endorphins. These are the "feel-good" chemicals in the body. However, experts don’t fully understand why or how ear acupuncture or acupressure may help.

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More studies are needed -

There aren't a big number of studies about ear seeds or similar therapies. More research is needed to fully back up claims, which is something to keep in mind if you're considering ear seeds.

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What to expect -

If you're considering ear seeds, it's best to have them applied by someone who knows what they're doing. It's a relatively inexpensive procedure.

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At your appointment -

A TCM practitioner will observe the body, including the tongue, complexion, shape, movement, and posture, as well as feeling for blood pressure and listening to voice tonality and breathing sounds, to reach a diagnosis for you.

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Outer ear -

After deciding the right points for the application, the ears are cleaned and dried prior to application of the ear seeds.

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Tweezer application -

Using a tweezer, the acupuncturist will apply the seeds to the specific points with precision.

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Latex tape -

The seed is secured in place using latex tape. Correct placement will prevent the tape falling off and into the ear canal. If you're allergic to any of the materials, let your acupuncturist know so they can use alternatives.

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Aftercare -

Gently rub your ears in a circular motion three to five times per day to stimulate the areas of the body they're meant to help. Use a gentle massage, not harsh movements.

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Risks -

It's possible to have minor, unpleasant symptoms after using ear seeds, such as discomfort or irritation, minor bleeding, or dizziness.

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Final note -

Remember, while ear seeds can potentially be helpful, they're not a primary or standalone treatment for your ailment.

Sources: (WebMD) (Healthline) (Medical News Today) (Cleveland Clinic) (Health.com) (Everyday Health)

See also: Stars who use alternative medicine

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