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Scroll through social media and you might see tiny gold or crystal studs glistening on ears. They are not just accessories. They’re the seeds of earworms, a modern, needle-free version of acupuncture that’s quietly gaining popularity on wellness feeds. People are using them to relax, improve sleep, or stay calm during busy days. Even celebrities like J-Hope of BTS have reportedly been seen wearing them.
What is ear seeding?
Ear seeding may seem like jewelry, but it is actually a form of auriculotherapy. The ear is considered a miniature map of the body, with points corresponding to various organs and systems. Dr Meena Agarwal, senior consultant ENT surgeon at PSRI Hospital, says, “Small seeds, usually from the Vaccaria plant or made of metal, are placed on these points with adhesive tape. Light pressure on the seeds stimulates the nerves in the ear, which helps in stress relief, sleep, digestion, emotional balance and even pain management.” Inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, ear draining is generally considered a complementary wellness practice rather than a medical treatment.
How does ear seeding work?
Ear seeding works by gently stimulating specific points on the outer ear that connect to the vagus and trigeminal nerves, which play major roles in the body’s response to stress. Pressing these points sends signals to the brain and helps control the stress hormone cortisol. By managing cortisol levels, ear seeding can help reduce anxiety, support relaxation, and improve emotional balance.
The ear acts as a miniature map of the body, with points connected to almost every organ and system. Regular stimulation can calm the nervous system, reduce racing thoughts, and improve sleep quality. Certain points are believed to provide relief from headaches, menstrual cramps, digestive problems and muscle tension. For women, ear seeding can aid hormone balance, ease perimenopausal discomfort and supplement reproductive routines.
This practice is suitable for both children and adults who may be sensitive to needles. It can help with motion sickness, travel-related stress, and general restlessness. Some research suggests that ear stimulation may increase circulation, strengthen immune function, and promote overall well-being. Beyond the physical effects, infusing and pressing the seeds provides a calm, mindful pause during a busy day, making it a simple tool for stress management and overall health.
Also, on the other hand, since the skin around the ears is delicate, dermatologists recommend caution when trying this trend. Dr Navjot Arora, consultant dermatologist, Dermaheal Skin & Clinics, says, “Inserting the seeds in the ear can sometimes cause mild skin irritation, redness or allergic reactions, especially if the adhesive tape or metal used is not hypoallergenic. The skin on and around the ears is sensitive, so prolonged application or repeated pressure on the seeds may cause local irritation or itching.”
He adds that choosing the right material can help prevent such issues. “For sensitive skin, it is best to use hypoallergenic adhesive tapes and beads made from materials such as stainless steel, gold-plated beads, or natural vaccaria seeds. Nickel-based or low-quality metal beads should be avoided, as these can trigger allergic reactions. The adhesive should be breathable and gentle to minimize sweat or moisture buildup, which can cause skin irritation,” he explains.
why people are liking it
Part of the allure of ear seeding is that it’s both effective and Instagram-worthy. The tiny beads look like studs, making the ritual easy to share online and fun to try. “It looks like jewelery but actually helps me relax after a busy day at college. It’s like having a small meditation device in my ear,” says Nikita Arora, a student at Delhi University. Additionally, Swarovski-crystal ear beads and gold-plated options have turned this ancient healing technique into a fashionable ritual.
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