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Auriculotherapy in traditional Chinese medicine

Auriculotherapy in traditional Chinese medicineMay 12, 2026, 10:12:28 PM

The ear as the key to relieving stress, pain, and imbalances. 

Auriculotherapy is a gentle and precise technique inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, which involves stimulating specific points on the ear that are connected to different parts of the body. This approach helpsrelieve pain, reduce stress, and correct certain energy imbalances, thereby providing comprehensive support for physical and emotional well-being.

Our auriculotherapy therapist

eric zhao

ASCA- and RME-certified therapist

Auriculotherapie

What is auriculotherapy?

Auriculotherapy is a natural, pain-free method . It is also known as auricular acupuncture or auriculopuncture. It's a Chinese medicine technique that aims to stimulate specific points located on the auricle (the visible part of the ear).

The aim is to work on energy dysfunctions.

In fact, there are several acupressure points in our ear (around 250), corresponding to each part of our body.

With the ear, we talk about the technical representation of the human body's organs.

The lobe is connected to the head, the conch to the viscera, the anthelix to the arms and legs, and the crest of the anthelix to the spine.

This technique was created in the 1950s by Dr. Paul Nogier, a French physician, homeopath and acupuncturist, and developed in China between 1960 and 1970. The practice is recognized by theWHO (World Health Organization) since 1987.

How does auriculotherapy work?

Le thérapeute place sur une ou plusieurs zones, en fonction de la cartographie des points nerveux de l’oreille, des petites graines de Vaccaria (issues de la plante Vaccaria).

Ces petites graines seront maintenues par des petites pastilles de sparadrap couleur chair et laissées sur l’oreille du patient.

Doit-on laisser travailler ces pastilles seules après la séance ?

De légères stimulations manuelles quotidiennes sur les pastilles permettent que l’effet thérapeutique perdure plusieurs jours entre les séances. Le thérapeute peut donc vous recommander de masser sur les zones où les pastilles ont été placées. Elles tombent toutes seules au bout de quelques jours.

What are the benefits?

This technique has numerous benefits for the body, and has the advantage of prolonging the therapeutic effects of the session performed.
It can be used alone or in conjunction with other conventional or complementary treatments.

The pain

This is one of the main indications for auriculotherapy. By stimulating certain points on the ear, endorphins (hormones that act as painkillers) are released, thus relieving pain.

It can :

  • Relieve acute and chronic pain in the body (sciatica, joint pain, tendonitis, lumbago, osteoarthritis, etc.).
  • Relieve everyday discomforts (migraine).
Les addictions

Addictions

Auriculotherapy can act on physical withdrawal, making weaning easier.

Le stress et l’anxiété

Stress and anxiety

A complete medical system that focuses on stimulating the body's natural "self-healing" mechanisms and balancing the body's functions.

Les autres indications

Other indications

Auriculotherapy can also be of great help for other indications such as :

Auriculotherapy is often used in conjunction with acupuncture. acupuncture.

Your treatment at a glance

How a session works

An auriculotherapy session lasts 1 hour. The therapist stimulates specific points on the outer ear to address various imbalances in the body and energy. Small Vaccaria seeds are placed on certain areas of the ear using adhesive patches to prolong the treatment’s effects for several days. This gentle, painless method is often used as a complement to acupuncture.

auriculothérapie

Frequency

The frequency of sessions depends on the specific issue and the desired goals. Regular follow-up sessions may be recommended for pain, stress, addictions, hormonal imbalances, or weight loss support.

Support

Our auriculotherapy practitioner is ASCA- and RME-certified.
Consultations may therefore be covered by certain supplemental insurance plans.
We recommend that you check the specific terms of your policy with your insurer.

Our rates for auriculotherapy

Session Duration Rates
One session 1 session lasting 1 hour CHF 160

FAQ – Ear Acupuncture

Are there any contraindications?March 20, 2026, 2:55:16 PM

Very little. A discussion with the therapist can help determine whether this technique is appropriate.

Does it work the first time?March 20, 2026, 2:54:46 p.m.

Sometimes yes, but in some cases, multiple sessions may be necessary.

Should the seeds or needles be removed after the session?March 20, 2026, 2:54:25 p.m.

The needles are removed immediately. The seeds may remain in place for a few days if the therapist recommends it.

Does it hurt?March 20, 2026, 2:53:36 PM

No, it's generally well tolerated. The side effects are mild.

What happens during a session?March 20, 2026, 2:53:09 p.m.

The therapist stimulates specific points on the ear using fine needles or Vaccaria seeds.

What is this treatment for?March 20, 2026, 2:52:34 PM

To relieve pain, manage stress, treat sleep disorders, address addictions, or restore internal balance.

Do you offer auriculotherapy at the clinic?March 20, 2026, 2:52:10 PM

Yes, some therapists use it.

What is auriculotherapy used for?March 20, 2026, 2:51:01 PM

They are used to relax muscles, stimulate circulation, and relieve tension.

Auriculotherapie

Acupuncture is discussed in this article: “How Can Acupuncture Support You During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period?”

Article by Eric Zhao, traditional Chinese medicine therapist - graduate of the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Pregnancy and the postpartum period can be hard on body and mind.

Morning sickness, back pain, bloating, stomach upsets, fatigue, stress... discomforts that can quickly become unbearable.

Acupuncture, a branch of Chinese medicine that dates back thousands of years, has proven its worth in relieving the many discomforts experienced by pregnant women, as well as helping them to prepare calmly for childbirth and regain their strength afterwards.

It can also help with miscarriage.

Traditional Chinese Medicine podcasts

Traditional Chinese medicine

A france inter podcast - Les Racines du ciel

With the participation of Dr Jean-Marc Kespi, Honorary President of the French Acupuncture Association

Auriculotherapy podcast

The benefits of auriculotherapy in Chinese Medicine. A france bleu podcast

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