What Are Ear Seeds?

Ear seeds are tiny seeds from the Vaccaria plant (or gold/silver pellets) adhered to specific auricular points with adhesive tape. They provide gentle, continuous stimulation that patients can activate themselves by pressing, extending the therapeutic effect between clinic visits.

Unlike needles, ear seeds are non-invasive, painless, and can be worn for 3–5 days.

Conditions We Treat with Auriculotherapy

Auriculotherapy is particularly effective for:

  • Anxiety, stress and PTSD
  • Chronic pain — including back pain, fibromyalgia, and headaches
  • Addiction and cravings (NADA protocol)
  • Fertility support and hormonal regulation
  • Weight management and appetite control
  • Insomnia and sleep disorders
  • Nausea during pregnancy or chemotherapy

The NADA Protocol

The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol uses five specific ear points — Sympathetic, Shen Men, Kidney, Liver, and Lung — and is used globally in addiction recovery, trauma support, and disaster relief settings.

We offer NADA protocol as an adjunct for patients managing substance dependency, PTSD, or high-stress life circumstances.

Combining Ear Seeds with Body Acupuncture

Ear seeds work synergistically with body acupuncture. We typically place them at the end of your body acupuncture session at points relevant to your main treatment goals. You leave the clinic with your ear seeds in place and instructions for self-stimulation at home.

The ear holds the whole body — learning its language opens a direct line to healing that you can carry everywhere.

Evidence

A 2020 Cochrane review found auricular acupuncture had significant evidence of benefit for chronic pain, with strongest support for back pain, headache, and dysmenorrhoea — consistent effect sizes across multiple high-quality trials.

Try Auriculotherapy at Lane Cove

Book an appointment and ask about adding ear seeds to your next treatment session.

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