Included with Acupuncture Treatments: See Acupuncture FeesEar seeds are made from the seed of the vaccaria plant, and attached to a small piece of medical-grade adhesive tape. The vaccaria plant is a purple plant, known in Chinese medicine as a blood tonifier, which promotes energy, overall health and well-being. Ear pellets, also called ear seeds, are tiny stainless-steel metal pellets with clear, latex-free adhesive tape.
Ear pellets can also come with tiny metal pellets plated with 24-karat gold, pearls or Swarovski Crystals on the outside. The pearls and Swarovski Crystals are for aesthetic purposes only and do not have any extra effect on stimulation of the points. Ear seeds and ear pellets can be used together with no problems.
What are ear seeds?
Ear seeds are small vaccaria seeds or metal pellets, placed on acupressure points of the ear to stimulate and promote wellness. They are a non-invasive, needle-free extension of acupuncture.
How do ear seeds work?
Ear seeds work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to acupressure points on the ear, which correspond to different areas of the body. This stimulation sends signals to the brain, which helps balance energy flow, reduce symptoms, and support overall well-being.
What conditions can ear seeds help with?
Ear seeds can support a variety of conditions, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Chronic pain (back pain, migraines, arthritis, etc.)
- Digestive issues
- Hormonal imbalances (PMS, menopause, etc.)
- Weight management and cravings
- Addiction and smoking cessation
How are ear seeds applied?
A practitioner places the seeds on specific acupressure points. They are typically left in place for 3-5 days, and you gently press on them to stimulate the point.
Can I apply ear seeds myself?
Yes! While a trained acupuncturist can provide a personalized placement based on your needs, you can also apply them at home with guidance. Ear seed kits usually come with a chart to help you find the right points.
How long should I leave ear seeds on?
Typically ear seeds are worn for 3-5 days before removing them. It’s best to give your skin a break for a day or two before reapplying new ones.
How do I remove ear seeds?
Tilt your head to your shoulder, then gently peel them off using your fingers or tweezers. If there is any adhesive residue, it can be cleaned with warm water or a mild cleanser.
Are ear seeds safe?
Yes! Ear seeds are generally safe for most people. However, if you have sensitive skin, allergies to adhesives or metals, or irritation, discontinue use and consult a practitioner.
Do ear seeds hurt?
No, ear seeds do not puncture the skin and should not cause pain. Some people may feel mild tenderness or a sensation of pressure at the points, which is normal.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare but may include mild irritation, redness, or itching at the application site. If discomfort occurs, remove the seeds and let the skin rest before reapplying.
Can I shower or swim with ear seeds on?
Most ear seeds are water-resistant, but prolonged exposure to water (like swimming) may cause them to loosen.
Can children or pregnant women use ear seeds?
Yes! However, pregnant women should consult a licensed acupuncturist to ensure proper point selection, as some points may stimulate labor. Ear seeds can also be used for children but should be monitored to prevent accidental swallowing, or loss of seed into ear canal.
How often should I use ear seeds?
This depends on your condition and response to treatment. Some people use them weekly, while others may only use them as needed for symptoms like stress or headaches.
Everyone has different symptoms and responds differently to ear seeding, therefore there is no exact number of treatments needed. Typically, people respond in three ways:
- Immediate improvement in symptoms.
- Improvement after the first few days.
- Severe or chronic issues take a few weeks.
What is known from ear seeding studies and research, is that people typically wore the ear seeds for 4-12 weeks before they saw improvements in symptoms. It typically takes multiple, weekly treatments to fully feel the effects of ear seeds/pellets.
Auricular Acupuncture
Here at Colorado Acupuncture and Wellness, we offer auriculotherapy sessions with needles, in a community setting, twice a week. Participants are treated using the 5-point NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) system. By stimulating these points, the treatment helps to calm the nervous system, support the body’s natural healing processes, and balance the body’s energy.
