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Auricular self-acupressure
耳穴 / auricular acupressure
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: China (also used as an adjunct in Europe and North America) · Tradition: A self-care form of ear acupuncture / auricular point therapy · Manual therapy & points
What it is
A method of stimulating specific parts of the ear with a finger or a seed/sticker (for example Shenmen). It is used as an adjunct for sleeplessness, unease, and pain.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- With a clean finger, gently rub the whole ear and press a point of interest for a few seconds.
- If you use a commercial ear sticker, follow the instructions and do not injure the skin.
- Do not use this on an infected or wounded ear.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Sleeplessness
- Stress or unease
- Headache
- Tiredness
Related symptom videos
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read
There are reviews of ear acupuncture and auricular points, including for sleeplessness, but study quality is low, and NCCIH and VA/DoD also describe the basis for recommending it as limited. Self-pressing has even thinner support.
Sources
- NCCIH: Sleep Disorders and Complementary Health Approaches
- NCCIH: Acupuncture: What You Need To Know
Safety notes
Watch for metal allergy and cartilage infection. Overuse of stickers can cause dermatitis.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- An infection or wound of the ear
- A severe skin allergy