Your ear holds a “map” of your whole body. One tiny vaccaria seed in the right spot, pressed three times a day, is all it takes.
Ear seeds are one of TikTok's favorite little TCM tools. They come from auricular (ear) acupressure: in Chinese medicine, the ear is thought to hold reflex points that correspond to the whole body.
The 4 most-used spots
Shen Men: in the triangular hollow near the top of the ear (the triangular fossa), the go-to point for relaxation and sleep. Heart: in the center of the lower bowl of the ear (the cavum conchae), often paired with Shen Men when your mind feels unsettled. Liver: toward the back and lower part of the upper bowl of the ear (the cymba conchae), for times of stress and irritability. Spleen: in the upper outer part of the lower bowl (the cavum conchae), for irregular eating and feeling easily tired.
How to apply and press
Wipe your ear clean with an alcohol pad, use tweezers to place the ear seed on the spot, then press gently with your fingertip for 30 seconds, until you feel a slight dull ache. Press three times a day, replace every 3 to 5 days, and you can alternate between ears.
If the skin on your ear is broken or has eczema, or if you're pregnant, please check with a qualified professional first.
Shop the ritual: 24K Ear Seeds Kit →
Keep reading
- Why Stress Lives in Your Shoulders: What TCM Says About Anger and the Liver
- The Five Scents: Chinese-Style Aromatherapy for Your Moods
- Always Waking Up at 3 a.m.? Meet the TCM Body Clock
We don't promise. We don't cure. We align. This article is for everyday wellness and cultural education only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a health concern, talk with your doctor first.
