Ear Seeding, a form of acupressure based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices, can be used to treat a wide array of imbalances in the body and mind - including digestive issues such as constipation, IBS and bloating. If you’re looking for a natural, DIY and pain-free way to restore healthy gut function, then using Ear Seeds could be an excellent option for you.

How Do Ear Seeds Help With Digestion?

Ear seeds are placed onto acupressure points on the outer ear that relate to different organs and associated symptoms. For digestive issues, such as stomach pain, ear seeds are placed on specific parts of the ear where energy pathways linking to the digestive organs are. 

The ear seed is massaged or pressed on gently multiple times per day to send signals (neurotransmitters) to the reflex centres of your brain to relax your nervous system and balance the gut-brain axis which in turn improves digestive function. 

In TCM, it is also believed that stimulating acupressure points can encourage the free flow of stagnant or deficient energy (Qi). 

In more detail, according to TCM principles, it is said that there are 12 main meridians, or energetic passageways, that pass through the top layer of the skin and fascia. The meridians are all connected - think of 12 different extension cords plugged in end to end and intertwined so if you were to unravel them, they would form one big loop.

Ten of these twelve different pathways are associated with a specific organ: the heart, stomach, lungs, large intestine, small intestine, liver, bladder, kidneys, gallbladder and spleen. The remaining two are related to emotional well-being and metabolic health. 

For digestive issues, the idea is to apply manual pressure (through ear seeds or fingers) to the stomach, large intestine and small intestine meridians. 

TCM principles believe that energy (Qi) can become stagnant or deficient in certain meridians causing health issues in the related organs. For example, Qi may become sluggish in the large intestine meridian causing symptoms such as constipation, bloating and IBS. 

The idea is to revitalise the Qi in the associated meridian through pressure and massage, therefore healing the digestive symptoms. 

Ear Seeding Research For Digestive Issues

Whilst Ear Seeding is an ancient healing practice dating back over 3,000 years, it has made its way to modern science. Some studies are showing that Acupressure and Auriculotherapy (Ear Seeding) help improve digestive health.

This 2020 study showed that auriculotherapy helped women with IBS by decreasing loose stools, abdominal pain, stress and heart rate variability.

Another study from the Mayo Clinic showed that acupuncture (another modality to encourage healthier Qi through applying pressure on meridians) can help with IBS symptoms. 

Where To Put Your Ear Seeds For Digestion

When you buy our Digest and Debloat Ear Seed kit, you’ll receive an ear placement chart that shows exactly where on your ear to apply the seeds. We also provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to apply them along with a scannable QR code with a video guide. 

If working with an auriculotherapist, they will assess which meridians to apply pressure to in order to restore balanced in digestive organs. 

Are There Any Negative Side Effects To Ear Seeding For Digestion?

There are no known side effects to Ear Seeds however, they are not recommended for those with allergies to latex or adhesives (as that is how they’re applied to your ear). Avoid the use of seeds on irritated skin or open lesions. Remember to always seek the advice of a qualified health practitioner when treating a medical condition.  

How Long Do Ear Seeds Take To Work On Digestive Issues?

As with most TCM work, it is not a quick fix, however after 2-3 treatments, we find that the seeds are already working their magic.

Ensure that you are gently massaging your Ear Seeds at least 3 times per day so that you’re stimulating the acupressure points.  

If Western medicine treatments haven’t been working for your digestive issues and you’re looking for a more natural and holistic technique, or are simply looking to supplement other forms of treatment, then why not give our at-home Ear Seed kit for digestion a try?