Auricular Acupuncture

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Auricular acupuncture is a diagnostic and treatment system on the outside portion of the ear, a microsystem reflection of the entire body. 

 

Acupuncture points found on the ear help to regulate the body's internal organs, structures, and functions.  The 'map' on the ear is in form of an inverted fetus with details of the anatomical, physiological and emotional body represented.  Stimulation of ear points switch on the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems releasing elevated levels of adenosine (a natural compound that the body uses as a local pain reliever) and endorphins (a chemical that interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain).  

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An auricular treatment is performed by stimulating points on the ear with tiny, very fine needles or placing small ‘beads’ (metal, magnetic, vaccaria seeds or Swarovksi crystals).  Some patients feel an immediate sense of relief while others need a few days before they notice an improvement.

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Auricular acupuncture can be a stand-alone therapy or used as an adjunct technique to complement a traditional acupuncture treatment.  Auricular acupuncture protocols were developed and found to be highly effective on their own in treatment of the following:

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• Addictions (to reduce cravings, minimize withdrawal symptoms, for better sleep and less agitation)

  • Alcohol

  • Drugs

  • Nicotine (Smoking Cessation)

  • Food

• Mood Disorders (to increase an inner calm, and gain relief from stress, anxiety or emotional trauma)

• Obesity/Weight loss (to treat the reason for the weight gain:  emotional eating vs. pathological to successfully reaching a weight goal)

• Pain Management (see Battlefield Acupuncture below for how it can help everyone, not just our soldiers)

• Relief from Jet Lag (to reset the circadian rhythm)

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The National Acupuncture Detox Association (NADA) protocol is also an effective way to help people facing enormous stress, anger, depression, fatigue and other emotional and physical pain.