Auricular Therapy

Auricular Therapy (aka Ear needling) is to stimulate points on the ear by needles or pressure to treat or prevent diseases.  It has long history dated back 500 BC in China. There are approximately 90 points on the ears.  The distribution of auricular points resembles an upside-down fetus in shape, such as ear lobe represents the “head” while ear apex is to the “hip and buttock”.

Modern clinical researches have provided evidence in support of its therapeutic ability. Needling on ears does not hurt but you may have sensations such as heat or tingling.  Dr. Paul Nogier of France also elaborates ear needling further into different systems.  Dr Nogier explains that the mechanism of auricular therapy is based on a specific system of energy pathways.  His theory is consistent with Chinese Meridian Theory.

During acupuncture sessions, small needles may be inserted on both ears to facilitate the healing process.  After acupuncture, small black seeds from Vaccaria plant (size little bigger than sesame seeds) are secured on the ear with a tiny adhesive tape over specific acupressure points.  Patients are encouraged to massage the seeds with fingertip frequently to stimulate the acupressure points.  The purpose of ear seeds are to continue building up natural healing momentum before next treatment.

Generally, we should leave the ear seeds in place for up to three days.  Sometimes, it is hard to keep the seeds in place within the high humidity weather in Florida.  Depending on the individual’s constitution, little tiny needles (similar mosquito’s mouth piece) may be used instead to create stronger stimulations.