14/07/2023
Ear acupuncture involves the insertion of acupuncture needles into specific points located around the ear. These points are believed to correspond to specific organs, emotions, or sensory feelings. The ear contains over 200 acupuncture points, each with its own significance 👂👏
In 1990, the World Health Organisation (WHO) established a standardised list of 39 auricular points. Among these 39 points, 10 master points are commonly utilised in auricular acupuncture treatments.
Some of the most frequently used points in ear acupuncture include:
🪡 Shenmen (also known as "ear shenmen" to differentiate from the point on the wrist):
Shenmen is an essential acupuncture point in ear acupuncture. It is located in the upper portion of the triangular fossa, which is a depression in the ear's cartilage. Shenmen is believed to have a calming and balancing effect on the body and is often used to address stress, anxiety, and pain management.
🪡 Point Zero:
Point zero, also known as the auricular vagal complex or the auricular cerebral cortex, is an important acupuncture point in the ear. It is situated at the centre of the ear, near the cavum conchae. Point zero is considered a neutralising point that can reset the body's energy and promote overall balance.
🪡 Kidney:
The kidney point in ear acupuncture is located on the lower part of the earlobe. It corresponds to the kidney meridian in traditional Chinese medicine. Stimulating the kidney point in ear acupuncture is often used to support kidney function, address
hormonal imbalances, enhance energy levels, and promote overall wellbeing.
🪡 Sympathetic:
The sympathetic point in ear acupuncture is situated in the middle of the ear, just above the cavum conchae. It is associated with the sympathetic nervous system, which plays a role in the body's "fight-or-flight" response. Stimulating the sympathetic point helps to alleviate stress, anxiety, and various pain conditions whilst promoting relaxation.
