Auricular Acupuncture

What is Auricular Acupuncture?

The whole body is reflected in the ears and there are points in the ears that reflect all the body's functions and organs.  These can be stimulated to suppress appetite and relieve withdrawal symptoms from alcohol, drug and nicotine addiction.  Small, fine needles are inserted in specific locations in the ears and then you lie down and relax for about 20 minutes.  If however you don't like the idea of needles, there is the effective but painless option of having these ear points stimulated by a hand held battery operated device that releases short bursts of very low electricity.  Steel pellets on adhesive are left in the ears for patients to press and stimulate the acupuncture points between treatments, this being safer than ‘press needles’ that puncture the skin and when left for days can be a potential source of infection.

The Benefits of Auricular Treatment:

• reduces cravings
• reduces withdrawal symptoms
• reduces stress
• reduces anxiety
• promotes strength of mind
• promotes relaxation
• promotes sense of well-being

Giving up Smoking

Having made the decision to give up smoking with the aid of Ear (Auricular) Acupuncture, the patient is expected to have the last cigarette on the night prior to treatment.  To show commitment the patient has to be prepared to throw away or give away, prior to the first session, all possessions that are linked to smoking such as ashtrays, cigarettes, lighters etc.  During the two weeks of treatment, the patient is advised to keep away from any situation that would put pressure on them to have a cigarette; such as friends who smoke. They should refrain from alcohol as much as possible, and drink lots of water. 

How Many Treatments will I Need?

To stop smoking, the course of treatment consists of four sessions spread over a period of two weeks.

Weight Reduction

It is well documented that one can suppress appetite through the use of Ear (Auricular) Acupuncture. Where appropriate it is an invaluable tool to help with weight reduction.  However, to successfully lose weight the person must follow a sensible diet, so prior to your first treatment you must carefully prepare your eating plan and stock up with the appropriate foods.

How Many Treatments will I need?

To lose weight the course of Auricular Acupuncture consists of four sessions spread over a period of three weeks. 

Weight Reduction and Traditional Acupuncture:

There may be other reasons for being overweight such as emotional problems and stress. In this case Traditional Acupuncture may be the better option as it can help a person to be more at ease and emotionally stable, hence less likely to over eat.