Dr. Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPH, Google Scholar,Board-Certified Clinical Pharmacist
In recent years, alternative and complementary therapies have moved from the margins into the mainstream, with practices like acupuncture, meditation and herbal medicine drawing growing interest. Many people turn to these approaches as natural ways to support their health, complement conventional treatments or manage stress. Among them, acupuncture (including ear seeding) stands out as one of the most widely studied, rooted in centuries of traditional Chinese medicine but increasingly explored through modern scientific research. While opinions differ on how these methods work and their effectiveness, their rising popularity highlights a broader shift toward holistic wellness and patient-driven care.
What does ear seeding mean?
Ear seeding is a form of auriculotherapy coming from Traditional Chinese Medicine that dates back to 221 B.C, according to Everyday Health. Auriculotherapy is a form of alternative medicine used in other common practices like acupuncture or acupressure. It targets specific points on the outer ear via earmapping or somatotopy, as explained by a study shared in PubMed.
To briefly break it down, somatotopy describes the ear as an external microsystem that can be stimulated in order to treat ailments elsewhere on the body. Ear seeding is a specific form of auriculotherapy where small seeds (typically those from a vacarria plant, per Healthline) are placed on specific pressure points on the ear. Once the seeds are placed, they can be gently pressed throughout the day. This technique is commonly used for people experiencing chronic pain, anxiety and insomnia; it has even been used for managing weight loss.
What are the side effects of ear acupuncture?
According to Healthline, serious complications resulting from ear acupuncture are a rare occurrence when done by a trained practitioner, but most people experience mild side effects. Mayo Clinic notes that mild soreness or irritation around the needle site is common, particularly during your first session. Some people may also feel lightheaded or dizzy due to sensitivity or anxiety.
More serious issues are uncommon but can occur if the area isn’t properly cleaned, potentially leading to allergic reactions or infections. Pregnant individuals are often cautioned against ear acupuncture, since specific pressure points have traditionally been linked to triggering uterine contractions, as noted by PNW Fertility.
“If the infection gets close to your brain, it can easily spread and become life-threatening. It is critical to follow post-treatment instructions and call your doctor if something is not right, ” explains Dr. Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPH, Google Scholar, Board-Certified Clinical Pharmacist
Can ear seeding help tinnitus?
Most research on auriculotherapy for tinnitus has focused on acupuncture rather than ear seeds. While the evidence for ear seeds specifically is limited, the existing studies still provide insights into whether this approach may be worth exploring further.
A study from Lippincott Journals shows a potential for acupuncture to increase the quality of life in those experiencing tinnitus, although it does not produce any evidence that it actually changes the characteristics of the tinnitus. Expectation, attention from practitioners and relaxation during treatment may contribute to the benefits people feel, not just the specific stimulation of ear points.
Does ear seeding work for anxiety?
As confirmed in another PubMed study, there’s good preliminary evidence that auricular acupressure (akin to using ear seeds) can reduce anxiety, especially in situations like medical procedures, test anxiety, postpartum anxiety, etc. It likely helps more as a complementary tool rather than a stand-alone cure.
Effects may depend on correct placement, frequency of stimulation, duration and individual susceptibility. Overall, the risks associated with this procedure and similar therapies are quite low when proper protocols are followed. If you believe it could be helpful, it may be worth giving it a try.
How to do ear seeding at home
To get started, you only need a few basic supplies:
Ear seeds: Traditionally, Vaccaria plant seeds are used, but magnetic beads, ceramic beads or stainless steel pellets are also available in pre-made kits.
Tweezers: To apply the seeds precisely.
Mirror: To help find the correct points.
Cotton pad and alcohol: To clean the ear before application.
Ear chart: Most ear seed kits include a chart showing points associated with stress, sleep, digestion and other concerns.
1. Clean your ear
Wash your hands, then clean the outer ear with an alcohol swab. This prevents irritation or infection and helps the adhesive stick better.
2. Choose your points
Begin with well-researched points such as:
Shen Men: Used for stress, anxiety and insomnia.
Point Zero: Said to promote balance and grounding.
Sympathetic Autonomic Point: Sometimes used to calm the nervous system.
These points are commonly included in introductory charts and are safe starting places for at-home use.
3. Apply the seeds
Using tweezers, peel the adhesive-backed ear seed from the sheet and carefully place it on the desired point of your outer ear. Press it gently to secure.
4. Stimulate the seeds
Massage or press each seed for 15-30 seconds, two or three times daily. You should feel mild tenderness, but not sharp pain.
5. Leave in place
Ear seeds can typically remain in place for three to five days. After that, remove them, clean the ear and let your skin rest before reapplying.
How long do you leave ear seeds in?
According to Medical News Today, some people leave their seeds in for up to a week, while others change seeds daily. Generally, 3-5 days is what Acupuncture Collective specialists recommend. After wearing the seeds for a few days, it’s advised that you take a break for at least a day before reapplying to prevent skin irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ear seeding a piercing?
No. Ear seeding does not involve needles or piercing. The seeds (or tiny beads) are placed on the surface of the outer ear with adhesive tape, making it a non-invasive practice.
Where is the best place to put ear seeds?
The best placement depends on your goal. Common starting points include Shen Men (for stress and relaxation), Point Zero (for balance) and areas linked to sleep or digestion.
Is there a pressure point to unclog ears?
There isn’t a single ear seed point proven to unclog ears, especially if the cause is medical (like earwax or infection). Some acupressure points, such as those linked to the ear or sinuses, are sometimes used in traditional practice to alleviate ear fullness; however, clogged ears should first be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Citations
Everyday Health Staff. Ear Seeds: How the Acupressure Technique May Enhance Overall Wellness. Everyday Health. Published 2024. https://www.everydayhealth.com/alternative-health/ear-seeds-how-acupressure-technique-may-enhance-overall-wellness/
Kosterlitz H, Paterson SJ, Robson LE. Characterization of the delta-opiate receptor. NIDA Research Monograph. Published 1984. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7402685/
Cherney K. Ear Seeds: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects. Healthline. Published 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/ear-seeds
Cherney K. Auricular Acupuncture: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects. Healthline. Published 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/ear-acupuncture
Mayo Clinic Staff. Acupuncture: Risks and benefits. www.mayoclinic.org. Published April 20, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
Pacific Northwest Fertility. Acupuncture While Pregnant. pnwfertility.com. Published 2024. https://pnwfertility.com/post/acupuncture-while-pregnant
He Y, et al. Auricular Acupressure for Treatment of Primary Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Published 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26525188/
Centenary Natural Therapies Clinic. The Incredible Range of Ear Acupuncture Points. cntc.com.au. Published 2021. https://www.cntc.com.au/ear-acupuncture-points/
Chen K. Acupuncture Point Shenmen “Spirit Gate”. Taichi-wellness.com. Published 2024. https://www.taichi-wellness.com/events_articles/events_articles_cont.php?id=298&subject=Acupuncture+Point+Shenmen+%22Spirit+Gate%22
Aurum Medicine & Wellness Clinic. A Definitive Guide to Acupuncture Points. aurummedicine.ca. Published April 14, 2024. https://aurummedicine.ca/blog/2024/04/14/a-definitive-guide-to-acupuncture-points
Master Tung’s Acupuncture. Auricular Sympathetic Point: LCH Location and Use. mastertungacupuncture.org. Published 2024. https://www.mastertungacupuncture.org/acupuncture/auricular/lch/points/sympathetic
Timmons J. Ear seeds: How to use them for health benefits. Medical News Today. Published 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ear-seeds-acupuncture
Calgary Acupuncture Collective. Ear Seed Instructions. acupuncturecollective.ca. Published 2024. https://www.acupuncturecollective.ca/blog/ear-seed-instructions