The Point of Ear Seeds.

In January, The New York Times published an article titled The Blooming Interest in Ear Seeds. Small little seeds placed on acupuncture points in the ear, a form of auricular acupressure. I personally was a bit disappointed in the article because it mainly focused on the rising popularity as a fashion statement and the varying costs. Only one line alluded to various sections of the ear corresponding to different body parts or organs. Essentially, an acupuncturist can treat physical, mental and emotional imbalances with ear points, either with needles or seeds. 

There are over 200 acupuncture points in the ear.  Many are for physical pain or conditions named for the region they treat such as: lumbar spine, ankle, hip, shoulder, etc.  Other points are more broad.  For example there are 2 points specifically for insomnia. A few for helping us to go from the sympathetic fight, fight or freeze to a parasympathetic state, rest, digest and restore.  Two of my favorites are Shen men (translated to spirit gate) and point zero.  Both are really good at restoring harmony and balance, however we need it. 

Personally I go in and out of using ear points.  Once the need is apparent in one client, I find I use them for several clients until it fades out. I also don't use the alone in a treatment, meaning it is just one piece of a bigger treatment. 

Here are some of my favorite ear points:

Spirit Gate helps to calm the mind and allow a connection to one's spirit, decreasing stress and tension, helps with sleep and lowers blood pressure. 

Point zero brings the whole body toward a general balance physically, mentally and emotionally. It helps to lift depression, aids in digestion, improves circulation and relieves aches and pains. 

Master Cerebral diminishes nervousness, anxiety, fear, worry and pessimistic thinking. Improves sleep and extreme fatigue. Promotes concentration and memory. 

The VA and Department of Defense use a protocol of  5 acupuncture points in the ear called "Battlefield Acupuncture" as a way to deliver, immediate short term relief to veterans. The VA's focus on this treatment is as a non-medication alternative for pain relief though it also helps on a deeper level with PTSD as well. This specific protocol uses regular or semi-permanent needles instead of seeds.  I would argue that the semi-permanent needles used are just as fashionable but more effective and longer lasting. 

The fashionability of ear seeds totally misses the point and power of ear acupuncture or acupressure.