Auriculotherapy: Can You Heal the Body By Treating the Ear?

Auriculotherapy is often referred to as the reflexology for the ear and is generally accepted as a form of acupuncture.  

Not many people know that there are about hundreds of points in the ear that are said to be like a micro-system of the entire body. Stimulation of these points is what auriculotherapy is all about. 

But can auriculotherapy really help heal the body? Read on and find out more about auriculotherapy from your trusted expert in acupuncture in Alloa: 

Where Did Auriculotherapy Begin?

Auriculotherapy can be traced to traditional Chinese medicine. The ancient healing art of acupuncture on certain body points is comparable to auriculotherapy’s idea; only the points are found on the ear. 

It was in the 1950s when Dr. Paul Nogier from Lyon, France, expanded the charts that came from the Chinese into something that is more comprehensible. He created a micro-map of the body showing all the body parts that are represented by every point on and in the ear. 

How Auriculotherapy Works

Every spot on the ear is stimulated to address various health problems. First, an acupuncturist will do an auricular analysis and target areas to treat specific health conditions. 

The practitioner will start the treatment by carefully inspecting points that may be associated with your particular health condition. Then, these points are treated with various methods, including acupuncture needles, laser or electrical stimulation, or with the use of ear seeds. 

What Are Ear Seeds and How Do They Work?

Only licensed acupuncturists are allowed to apply ear seeds in various regions of the ear to address stress and other health issues. In essence, ear seeds work as acupressure tools.

Once the ear seeds are in position, the practitioner will then instruct you to gently massage or stimulate the ear seeds two or three times every day. You need to be careful not to overstimulate and cause irritation, though. 

What Can You Expect During the Treatment

During the treatment, it’s unlikely that you’ll feel anything, though there are some who reported a feeling of heaviness or a very mild electrical sensation. You may be in for a single treatment or it could be a series of sessions, depending on your particular health condition. 

Auriculotherapy may also be performed together with regular acupuncture treatments to even enhance the treatment. As there are no known side effects, this non-invasive treatment can be performed for patients of all ages.

What Is Auriculotherapy Used For?

Aculotherapy is typically done to address pains and addictions of various kinds. It has also been proven to be effective with anxiety, some allergies, depression, stress, PMS, eye problems, and more. 

It is also recommended for those who are suffering from conditions that negatively affect the mental, physical, and even emotional health of patients. 

Conclusion

Indeed, more studies and research are necessary to fully understand how the points in and on the ears affect and improve certain health conditions. What is now known is that the Vagus nerve, which is very important, is stimulated at the ear. This nerve, considered the master regulator, controls various systems in the body, from the nervous system to the internal organs. By stimulating this point in the inner part of the ear, you can promote the body’s natural healing response, relieve stress, and increase relaxation. Considering its benefits, it’s recommended that you try auriculotherapy the next time you get acupuncture in Alloa. 

Ruth McWilliam Acupuncture is where you can have acupuncture in Alloa done. Make an appointment today and experience the benefits of auriculotherapy at our acupuncture clinic!