So what can these tiny but mighty acupressure tools do for you? Acupuncturist Thuy Kim Nguyen, DAOM, LAc​, explains what ear seeds are, what they do and how to use them for the most benefit. What are ear seeds?

Using your thumb and index finger, apply firm but gentle pressure on the ear seeds to stimulate the healing process. Do this a few times per day. Two recent meta-analyses referencing the potential health benefits of ear seeds may be the beginning of a deeper look at this age-old practice.A 2015 literature review looked at 15 studies on auricular acupuncture with ear seeds for insomnia. Together, the studies indicated that the combination of ear seeds and acupuncture seemed to reduce insomnia symptoms. There are more than 120 acupressure points in the ear,” Dr. Nguyen says. “The ears have a very close relationship with the nervous system, and some research shows that acupuncture or acupressure on the ear can stimulate the meridians.” (According to traditional Chinese medicine, 12 primary meridians carry energy throughout the body.) Dr. Fisk adds, “I would exercise caution in children whose parents are concerned that their child may fidget with the ear seed for fear of altering its position or disrupting the adhesion of the overlaying tape, as this can increase the danger of the seed going into the ear canal.” *Image source: Pexels/Unsplash/Pixelbay Where to Get Ear Seed We first make a diagnosis using Chinese Medicine terminology. When evaluating a new patient, I use pulse and tongue diagnoses. I also review the patient’s health history and discuss their symptoms,” Dr. Durve says. Ear seeds, in conjunction with acupuncture, may help relieve the following health conditions: Lan, Y., et al. (2015). Auricular acupuncture with seed or pellet attachments for primary insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Skin irritation: If you have sensitive skin or leave them on your ears too long, you may experience redness, irritation or swelling. The first "E" is for exercise. Having some scheduled exercise can be very important and can raise that threshold for migraine. After cleaning your ear with an alcohol swab, a practitioner places the seeds on the outside portion of your ear. It doesn’t hurt, but you may feel some tenderness or warmth. Blakeway explains that traditional Chinese medicine views the body as self-regulating, and ear seeds — which she considers to be “a gentle version of acupuncture” — prompt the body to heal. It is claimed that ear seeds can alleviate the symptoms of numerous diseases, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive difficulties. It can even be used to treat substance abuse. Scott states, “I have people using ear therapy for addiction; they are attempting to quit smoking.”“Adults will have acupuncture and then depart with these seeds, which can reduce cravings,”

What Are Ear Seeds Used for?

Ear seeds are safe for just about anyone, although it's always a good idea to tell your doctor about any alternative treatments you try. Some people use ear seeds along with acupuncture treatments. They may help the effects of acupuncture last longer between sessions. How Ear Seeds Work Allergic reaction: If you’re allergic to any of the ingredients in ear seeds or materials used, inform your acupuncturist and ask them to use a version that doesn’t include those allergens. There’s not enough research to prove how well ear seeds work, but studies continue showing that they have a positive impact on insomnia and pain — and maybe on other conditions, too. Rebecca Fisk, M.D., a pediatric hospitalist at Lenox Hill Hospital in the Northwell System, adds, “There are few published big medical studies attesting to the defined benefits of ear seeding in these situations; there are limited data in children. Nonetheless, TCM has hundreds of years of anecdotal evidence for treating and possibly lowering the symptoms of many of these physical and psychological problems.”

This means that the regular use of vaccaria seeds could not only help treat your chronic migraine naturally, it could also reduce chronic inflammation throughout your entire body!After you have first consulted with a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Kim says applying them at home may be empowering for some. She says it’s a technique that the patient has control over and one that doesn’t necessarily require an appointment, once you’ve met with, and made a plan under the guidance of, a professional provider. Risks of At-Home Application of Ear Seeds