Ear Seeds for Pain & Inflammation

A 2015 study on the effects of using ear seeds for pain and inflammation, specifically chronic lower back pain, found that participants in the treatment group (ear seeds on beneficial points) had 56% less pain intensity and 26% better physical function. Participants in the control group (ear seeds on “sham” points) only reported 9% less pain intensity and 2% better physical function. This was after four weeks in a row of weekly ear seed application to the ears and daily stimulation of the ear seeds (three times per day for three minutes each time).

The impact of auriculotherapy on labor pain, arguably one of the most intense types of pain, has also been studied. In an article published in 2018, 84 pregnant women were divided into two groups, a control group receiving standard care during childbirth and a treatment group receiving 20 minutes of auriculotherapy via a manual pointer and ear seeds. During the different stages of labor and delivery, women in the treatment group reported less pain than women in the control group. The study also suggests that duration of labor might also be reduced with auriculotherapy, particularly in the first and second delivery stages.

There’s no shortage of studies on auriculotherapy’s effect on different types of pain:

• Orthodontic pain
• Reproductive pain
• Musculoskeletal pain
• And more

Ear seeds, a form of auriculotherapy, have gained recognition for their potential to alleviate pain and inflammation in a non-invasive and holistic manner. Derived from traditional Chinese medicine, ear seeds involve the application of small seeds or beads to specific points on the outer ear that correspond to various regions of the body. These points are believed to be connected to energy pathways that influence pain perception and inflammation levels.

By stimulating these points through gentle pressure, ear seeds are thought to encourage the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promoting the release of endorphins and facilitating improved circulation. This natural approach to pain management has garnered interest as an adjunct or alternative therapy for various conditions, including musculoskeletal discomfort, headaches, and inflammatory issues.

While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, the practice of using ear seeds for pain and inflammation offers a potentially promising avenue for those seeking drug-free methods to address these issues. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new therapeutic regimen.