Auricular acupressure FAQ
The ear functions like a mirror of the body, containing 200 regions/points that correspond to different anatomical areas. By applying pressure to specific auricular points, satisfactory therapeutic effects can be achieved in certain clinical conditions.
There are frequently asked questions.
Q: Can ear seeds treat diabetes?
A: Auricular seed acupressure cannot replace conventional medical treatment for diabetes. However, in some patients, it may help temporarily lower blood glucose levels for a short period, typically 2-3 days.
Patients should continue their prescribed diabetes medications. In certain cases, under medical supervision, medication dosage may be adjusted if blood glucose control improves.
What we usually recommend is that once blood sugar levels are stable, patients may receive auricular seed therapy 3–5 sessions every three months as a supportive maintenance approach, rather than a primary treatment.
Q: Can auricular therapy be used during menstruation?
A: Yes. but certain points should be avoided. During the menstrual period, it is generally recommended to avoid the Sympathetic point, as it has a blood-activating effect and may increase menstrual flow in some patients.
History of miscarriage:
For patients with a history of miscarriage, auricular therapy is generally not recommended.
During pregnancy:
Auricular therapy should be used with caution. The following points are not recommended during pregnancy: Sympathetic, Ovary, Lower Jiao, Uterus, Breast, Lumbar spine.
Labor induction:
In contrast, when labor induction is requested, these same points can be selected.
Q: Will a tender auricular point disappear with frequent acupressure?
A: No.
Q: Is auricular therapy effective for everyone? How can I tell if it works for me?
A:No. Auricular therapy, like any therapeutic approach, is not effective for everyone.
In clinical practice, patients who show poor reactive points or minimal tenderness at auricular points tend to respond less well to treatment. Clear reaction points—such as distinct tenderness or sensitivity—often indicate a better potential response to auricular therapy.
Q: Can auricular therapy help with motion sickness (car or sea sickness)?
A: Yes. For motion sickness, the following auricular points are commonly used: Yun qu, Shenmen, Spleen.
Auricular seeds or acupressure can be applied to these points and removed once symptoms stabilize.
Q: Can auricular therapy help patients with kidney failure?
A: Stimulating the Kidney point is sometimes reported to help improve energy or tolerance during dialysis, potentially supporting longer dialysis sessions.(but not only the Kidney point).
It is important to note that auricular therapy does not replace standard medical treatment such as dialysis or medications.
Q: My acupuncturist gave me ear seeds. How should I stimulate them at home?
A: Press each point for about 30 seconds, three times a day. If no allergic reaction or discomfort occurs, the ear seeds can usually be kept in place for around 3 days. Some patients have kept them for up to 14 days, depending on tolerance and comfort. Anyway, if you feel any uncomfortable with the ear seeds, please take the seeds off immediately.
