Ear acupuncture is a type of acupuncture that involves inserting needles into specific points on the ear. Stimulating these points is thought to promote healing in other areas of the body. Also referred to as auricular therapy or auriculo-acupuncture, ear acupuncture is often incorporated into standard acupuncture treatments.
Although ear acupuncture is largely based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (a form of alternative medicine that originated in China), it was developed in the mid-20th century by French scientist Paul Nogier
Uses for Ear Acupuncture
Ear acupuncture is used to improve the body’s flow of vital energy (also known as “chi” or “qi”) and to restore a balance between yin and yang (two opposing but complementary energies) within the internal organs. In traditional Chinese medicine, each of these effects is considered essential to treating disease and achieving health.
In alternative medicine, ear acupuncture is typically used for these and other health conditions:
- Allergies
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Constipation
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Low back pain
- Migraine