Ear seeds are a simple, non-invasive way to stimulate pressure points in the ear, promoting balance and well-being. They are based on auriculotherapy, a practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Follow this guide to safely apply and benefit from your ear seeds at home.
To buy ear seeds from me, please visit WBCo Clinic in Durham. If you aren’t local, please ">send me an email and I’ll be happy to post them out.
The clinic details can be found on my Contact & Location page.
What’s the difference between the different types of Ear Seeds?
Gold Ear Seeds are found on clear hypoallergenic adhesive and can be worn for up to 2 days before being removed. Please leave 1-day between removal and reapplication to the same point. The gold ear seeds activate the point without the need for additional stimulation.
Vaccaria Ear Seeds are on beige coloured hypoallergenic plasters and can be worn for up to 5 days. The seed itself is a plant seed known as the vaccaria seed, which places pressure on the point it is applied to. The vaccaria seeds can be pressed multiple times throughout the day to gain relief. Please allow one day between removal and reapplication to the same point.
Reference Chart
Using the diagram to the right, you can choose the best points for your specific conditions. You can use up to 5 points in each ear (10 seeds in total).
Most treatments will work well with two ear seeds, one in each ear. Try using only two ear seeds, and if needed add more seeds if you feel like you need a stronger treatment.
- Shenmen:
Good for:
· Anxiety
· Panic Attacks
· ADHD
· Insomnia
· Mental Health
· Pain control
· Fear
· High Blood Pressure
· Preparing for events or exams - Sympathetic: Note This point is under the fold on the base closest to your skull.
Good for:
· Easing fight or flight reactions
· Stress
· Digestive upset due to stress
· Stress sweating
· Pain - Kidney: Located up under the ridge
Good for:
· Boosting self worth
· Strengthening will power
· Easing fear and paranoia
· Boosting fertility - Liver: Located just over the ridge on the base of your ear.
Good for:
· Migraines and headaches
· Stress
· Anger
· Menstrual problems
· Pain
· High blood pressure
· Mood swings - Lung:
Good for:
· Inspiration
· Motivation
· Creativity
· Letting go
· Helps to ease grief and sadness - Point Zero:
Good for:
· Deep sense of calm
· Grounding
· Relaxation
· Anxiety
· Panic
· Stress
· A “Reset” point encouraging calmness and inner peace
Points 1 to 5 can be used together (5 ear seeds in each ear) to ease:
· Hot flushes from the menopause or endocrine treatment
· Aid Weight Loss
· Stop Cravings
· Aid Smoking Cessation and Drug Addiction
· Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
If in doubt, please speak to your Acupuncturist or GP about your symptoms.
How to Apply Ear Seeds
What You’ll Need:
- Clean hands
- A pack of ear seeds (gold or vaccaria seeds)
- A small mirror
- Tweezers (optional, for easier handling)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Clean the Ear Area – Wash your hands and gently cleanse your ear with a cotton pad and mild cleanser or alcohol wipe to remove oils.
- Locate the Right Points – Use the reference chart above or consult Claire Watkins Acupuncture to identify the best points for your needs.
- Peel & Apply the Ear Seed – Carefully remove an ear seed from its backing using tweezers or your fingers. Place it firmly on the chosen point.
- Press for Activation – Gently press the seed into the skin for a few seconds to ensure it sticks and to stimulate the point.
- Massage Vaccaria Only – Lightly press and massage Vaccaria seeds 2-3 times a day for added stimulation. Gold Seeds do not require stimulation.
- Removal – Remove Gold Ear Seeds after two days. Remove Vaccaria (black) Ear seeds after 5 days. Peel them off gently and cleanse your ear, wait at least 24-hours before reapplying new ones to the same points.
Important Tips
- Avoid using ear seeds on broken or irritated skin.
- If you experience discomfort, itching or redness, remove them immediately.
- Ear seeds are safe for most people but consult an acupuncturist if pregnant or if you have specific health concerns.
- You can reapply fresh seeds to different points or the same ones after a 24 hours break.
Ready to experience the benefits of auriculotherapy? Why not book for auricular acupuncture!
Auricular acupuncture can provide longer lasting effects than ear seeds. It is a stronger treatment and can ease symptoms for longer when combined with Ear Seeds.
For more guidance, book an appointment with Claire Watkins Acupuncture at www.clairewatkinsacupuncture.com/booking.
