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From weight loss to managing seasonal allergies, stress relief and alleviating sciatica symptoms, ear seeds are the latest wellness trend that promises to relieve many common health issues!
Ear seeds are a form of acupuncture or auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture) that is linked to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to TCM, there are different parts of our ears that respond to various systems and organs within the body. Stimulating these specific areas of the ear can treat problems associated with the corresponding organs and systems. Auriculotherapy uses ear seeds – a form of acupuncture using seeds from the vaccaria plant – that are applied to vital parts of the ear with adhesive tape. The ear seeds can comfortably remain in place for up to 5 days, however, they may fall off sooner than that depending on where they are placed.
Ear seeds can be used for a variety of issues. Many people turn to ear seeds to help with PTSD, seasonal allergies, insomnia and weight loss. Dr. Stephen Chee, who is dual-trained as an M.D. and as an acupuncturist says, “In my clinical practice, I use ear seeds with weight loss, addictions, and stress-related conditions…”I find ear seeds to be most helpful in patients who are motivated to change and looking for something that they can physically do. I explain to patients it’s useful as a ‘pattern interrupt.’”
How exactly can ear seeds help with something like stress eating and cravings for patients who are looking to lose weight? Dr. Chee explains, “Research has suggested a connection between the vagus nerve and ear acupuncture…The vagus nerve is intimately linked to the parasympathetic nervous system of the heart and the digestive tract.” The parasympathetic nervous system behaves like the brakes in a car for the flight or fight instinct that everyone has. This brake system is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. Dr. Chee says, “Pressing the ear seed is like pushing on the brakes,” which is why it works for suppressing cravings and curbing emotional eating.
While more research is needed to be done to determine if ear seeds actually work, a recent study found that “The best result for reducing state anxiety was produced by the auriculotherapy with needles. Similarly, in a study conducted in a university hospital, there was a greater reduction of stress by auriculotherapy with needles compared to that with seeds.”
If you’re curious about trying out ear seeds, you can feel safe trying them out because there are no side effects and it’s very similar to acupuncture. You’ll also benefit from the placebo effect of believing that you’re doing something good for your body!
