Ear seeds
Ear seeds are tiny seeds, usually from the vaccaria plant, taped to points on the ear. You press them lightly between visits. There are no needles.
Who usually comes in
People who want something to do between visits, and people who would rather start without needles. They are an add-on to an acupuncture visit, or a visit of their own.
Services
What a visit is like, in order
The seeds are light and show a little, so ask for skin-colored tape if you prefer.
- 01
Step 1: We talk
Your acupuncturist asks about tape, skin on the ear and how the seeds feel to wear.
- 02
Step 2: The seeds go on
A seed on a small square of tape goes on each chosen ear point. It takes a few minutes.
- 03
Step 3: You practice
You show how to press each seed with a fingertip for a few seconds, a few times a day.
- 04
Step 4: You take them off
The seeds stay on for several days, then come off. You can take them off sooner if the skin is sore.
Services
Tell us first
Say any of these when you book, and again at the visit.
A treatment cycle or a pregnancy
If you are or might be pregnant, or in a treatment cycle, tell us before you book. We may choose different points or skip ear seeds.
Blood thinners
A blood thinner matters little for seeds, but tell us so the rest of your visit fits.
A bleeding disorder
A bleeding disorder matters little for seeds. Tell us all the same.
A pacemaker or an implanted device
Seeds use no electricity. Tell us about a pacemaker or an implant anyway.
Lymph node removal
Lymph node removal matters little for ear seeds. Tell us all the same.
A fear of needles
Ear seeds have no needles, and the tape peels off whenever you like. Say so when you book.
How many visits, and what this does not do
You can wear seeds for a week and then take a break. Your acupuncturist plans it with you around your visits.
What it does not do
Ear seeds do not replace your clinic's care. We make no promise about a result. If the skin on your ear is red, sore or cut, take the seeds off and call us.
When to see a doctor instead
Call your reproductive clinic or your doctor first for heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain, a fever, sudden swelling, or any symptom your clinic has told you to report. For chest pain, trouble breathing or sudden weakness or numbness, call 911.
Book a first visit
Tell us your clinic's dates and we will plan around them. See how fees work before you book.