EAR ACUPUNCTURE ACUDETOX

What is it ?

Acudetox is a specialised form of acupuncture performed by placing 5 thin needles in specific acu-points on the external  ear. The needles are left in place for 30 - 45 minutes.

The ear is considered to be a micro-system reflection of the entire body, like hands and feet.

This is often done in group sessions to treatment is non-verbal with the least disturbance by the practitioner or other clients coming and going.

How does it work?

These five points are based on Orietal Medicine approach and serves to balance the body’s energy and assist the body’s healing process.The combined effect is a tonification of Yin energy. The Sympathetic and Shen Men points induce a sense of calm and relaxation. the other three points relate to Yin organs, the Kidney , Liver and Lungs. These Yin organs are seen as internal, nourishing, nurturing, restorative and supportive.

These 5 points include:

Sympathetic Point

Sympathetic is another major auricular point instrumental in balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system. It relieves pain and promotes dilation of blood vessels, which aids in pain relief and has a relaxing effect on the effect on the internal organs of the body.

Shen Men point:

According to Chinese Medicine, this point on the ear that acts as a gateway to general wellness: the Shen Men,  translates to "heavenly gate." Practiced in China for centuries, pressing this point on the external ear can help to relieve stress, anxiety, allergies, headaches, addiction, inflammation, depression,insomnia,pain and detoxification.

The Nei Jing reminds us, "When the Heart is serene, all pain is negligible." This function is largely related to the heart's role in blood regulation as well as the strong relationship of the heart to the mind and the spirit. Indeed, shenmen proves to be a primary point in the treatment of pain.

https://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=29043

Kidney Point:

Kidney. The kidney is the organ that encapsulates the person's  inherent constitution as well as the state of one's current health. It is useful in all chronic problems and detoxification.

The kidney is the root of the qi. It anchors and secures it, thus keeping the person healthy and balanced physically and psychologically. The kidney governs all of the developmental life phases, from conception through to aging.  The kidney governs the anatomical and physiological domains of the back, knees, the lower jiao, blood, hearing, and the head hair.

Liver point

The liver is the organ responsible for the free flow of Qi ( vital energy) in the body, thus it can move stagnant or blocked Qi  anywhere in the body. Chinese Medicine associates the liver with resolving anger and aggression and keeping both the emotions and the body’s systems moving smoothly.

Lung point:

In addition to respiration, the lung is also involved in protecting the body from disease and supports the immune system.

NADA ( NATIONAL ACUPUNCTURE DETOXIFICATION ASSOCIATION) 5 POINT AURICULAR ACUPUNCTURE PROTOCOL

NADA involves the gentle placement of up to five small, sterilized disposable needles into specific sites on each ear.

The recipients sit quietly in a group setting for 30-45 minutes allowing the treatment to take effect.

NADA ear acupuncture is an adjunct therapy which is clinically effective, cost-efficient, drug-free and compatible cross-culturally.

It can easily be established within behavioral health, addictions or disaster relief settings or in any location that a group of people can sit together.

The combined application of acupuncture with counseling, education, medical support and self-help groups such as AA and NA enhances opportunities for success.

• Reduced cravings for alcohol and drugs, nicotine.
• Minimized withdrawal symptoms, relapse episodes.
• Increased calmness, better sleep, and less agitation.
• Relief from stress and emotional trauma. Acudetox often helps a  client become more comfortable with their own thoughts, enabling them to experience a sense of “letting go “
• An easier connection with counseling. Acudetox supports other programmes for counselling and addiction.
• A discovery of inner quiet and strength, opening up the possibilities of body, mind and spirit connection.
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What can I expect during a treatment?

I will take a brief history of your current health and complaints.

You will be seated in a chair. This is a non-verbal process with minimal chatting and interaction during the session.

You will be given a sterile alcohol swab and be shown how to clean the inside of your ears. Once you feel comfortable and are ready, we will start with the needles.

Five needles (sterile, single-use acupuncture needles)will be inserted into the relevant points on both ears. 

Breathe out when asked to as this helps minimise discomfort during needle insertion.

Most clients feel a sense of relaxation once the needles are in place. You may experience slight  pain , warmth, itching or tingling as the needle is inserted. This should stop in a few seconds. 

You then sit quietly listening to a guided meditation or soft music for 30 - 40 minutes.

It is important not to cross your arms and legs during your treatment. This allows the energy to flow better.  

Try to forget about your busy day and cell phone. Rather observe what comes up for you –  This time allows the needles to do their ‘work’.  

If a needle comes loose or falls out don’t try and find it. Sit until the end of the session and your therapist will assist you to locate it.

After the treatment you will most likely feel relaxed and revitalized!

Does it hurt?

The needle is small and very fine (0.22mm) like a hair. It is not like a syringe needle with a cutting edge. This kind of acupuncture needle actually glides through the skin, and you will usually not notice it.  If you do feel something, it will not be intense and breathing out will help you. Any initial discomfort will pass.

After the needle is in place you may feel various sensations, but none of them should be painful. Feeling something means the acupuncture is working on that point and is a good thing. e.g. if you have had a lot of alcohol to drink, your liver point may respond and you may feel some nausea as you detox. This feeling will go away!

Can ear acupuncture harm me?

No! You cannot be harmed by ear acupuncture. You can only benefit. It serves to detox you and balance your systems. Many patients find the benefits so amazing, they want to have ear acupuncture on a regular basis.

How often should I have Acudetox

Treatment can vary form daily sessions to to regular sessions 1-2 weekly or a treatment bundle.

What are the effects of a treatment

• A balancing process occurs almost immediately.
• Relaxed centred feeling.
• You may fall asleep during the treatment.
• increased sense of vitality.
• As the number of sessions increase you may feel more and more relaxed and in harmony with yourself.