Auricular therapy, also known as auricular acupuncture or ear acupuncture, is a form of alternative medicine that involves stimulating specific points on the ear to diagnose and treat conditions in other parts of the body. It’s based on the theory that the ear is a microcosm of the body, with various points corresponding to different organs and systems.

Auricular therapy is rooted in the idea that the ear’s surface has points that correspond to different parts of the body. Stimulating these points can affect corresponding areas, potentially relieving pain, improving function, or addressing other health issues.

Acupuncturists may use various techniques to stimulate these points, including:

• Acupuncture needles: Small, sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the ear.
• Acupressure: Applying pressure to specific points with fingers or small pellets.
• Electrical stimulation: Applying a mild electrical current to the ear points.
• Laser stimulation: Using a laser to target specific points.
• Ear seeds or pellets: Small seeds or pellets are taped to the ear and left for a few days to provide continuous stimulation.

Auricular therapy is used to address a wide range of conditions, including:

• Pain management: Chronic pain, including back pain, and cancer pain.
• Mental health: Anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
• Addiction and substance misuse: Managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Other conditions: Migraines, diabetes, digestive issues, and PTSD.