CHINESE

AURICULAR
THERAPY
 CHINESE AURICULAR
THERAPY.

AUTHOR Bai Xinghua

ENGLISH CONSULTANT RB Baron

Scientific and Technical Documents

Publishing House
1994
 CHINESE AURICULAR THERAPY

Copyright (9 1994 by the Scientific · and Technical

Documents Publishing House

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be

reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any
form or by any means: electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without
permission in writing from the publishers.

Publisher:
Scientific and Technical Documents Publishing House,
15 Fuxing Lu, Beijing, China

Distributor:
Scientific and Technical Documents Publishing House,
15 Fuxing Lu, Beijing, China

ISBN 7-5023-2261-2/R • 385

To Xiaoli, for her love and dedication.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I am .grateful to Zhang Aimin for his typing of the Chinese

manuscript and to Xue Hengmin for the exq~isite illustrations he
drew for the book. I· am also grateful to have received the very
professional support and advice of the Scientific and Technical
Documents Publishing House. My thanks to RB Baron of Albion,
California, USA who revised and typed the English manuscript.
My Swedish friends Thea Renvall and Leena Nikker have given
unfailing encouragement and support. Without the help of all those
mentioned above, it would not have been possible to publish this
book.
 FOREWORD
It was several years ago that I by chance first became
interested in auricular therapy. At that time, I was a postgraduate
student of acupuncture at the Beijing College of Traditional Chinese
Medicine. -I had been suffering for almost a month from urticaria,
and had tried both modern and traditional remedies with no
improvement. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to
attend a lecture on auricular therapy being given at the Academy of
Traditional Chinese Medicine by an eminent ear acupuncturist, and
after the lecture I asked her for help. She taped several auricular
points, and drew blood from Apex of Ear by puncturing it with a
filiform needle. The miracle occurred the next day. The severe
itching stopped, and over the following days the skin lesions
gradually disappeared.
Since that first experience, I have read many books concerning
auricular therapy, and have also engaged in extensive clinical
practice. In my experience, the primary difference between
auricular therapy and body acupuncture lies in the method used to
locate points .. It can be imagined how difficult it is to locate
precisely the hundreds of points clustered together on the auricle.
Due to the small size of the auricle, as well as individual
differences, it is almost impossible -to accurately locate every
auricular point in a healthy person. However, when disease or
disorder is present in the body, auricular points corresponding to
the affected areas of the body can be determined by detecting
positive signs on the auricle. Only when these positive points are
stimulated will positive therapeutic results be attained. In other
m
words, the relationship between the affected area of the body and
the corresponding positive points on the auricle can be likened to
that between a lock and its key, the "key" of stimulation of
positive auricular points opening the "lock" of disease or disorder of
the corresponding area of the body.
Auricular therapy has several great advantages over body
acupuncture. First, auricular manipulation is simple and safe; in
many cases the only implement required is a matchstick. Secondly,
auricular therapy has been proven effective in the treatment of more
than two hundred diseases and disorders. And because it is less
painful than body acupuncture, it is well accepted by the elderly,
children, and people with a tendency to faint when receiving body
acupuncture. Most importantly, the results of auricular therapy
are obvious and rapid, in many cases following treatment as sqrely
as a shadow is cast by a stick raised in the sunlight.
I have given the writing of this book my best efforts, and I am
confident that it will be of great benefit to those who need it.

Bai Xinghua
Lecturer
Department of Acupuncture
Beijing College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion

N
 CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............... _................................................ ( Xll)

. PART ONE FOUNDATION

CHAPTER ONE ANATOMY OF THE AURICLE (3)
Anatomical Nomenclature of the Surfaces of the
Auricle ............................................................ (3)
II Histological Structure of the Auricle ..................... (5)
Ill Relationship of the Auricle, the Meridians, and the
Zangfu Organs .. • .. · .. · .. · .. · .. · .. ••.. · .... • ..... · .. •.. · •....... · ( 8)
CHAPTER TWO MECHANISM OF AURICULAR
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT ................................. 01).
Homuncular Reflex Theory .. · .. •.. · .. · .. •..... · · .... • ..... · 01)
II Delta Reflex Theory .......................................... (13)
Ill Meridian 'fheory ............................................. (15)
CHAPTER THREE AURICULAR POINTS ............ 07)
The Distribution Rule of Auricular Points and Areas
········· ···························································· (17)
.B: Methods for Locating Auricular Points .................. 08)
1H Nomenclature and Indications of Auricular Points
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••o•••••••••••••••••••••••••• (19)
IV Locations and Indications of Auricular Points ......... (23)
1. Locations and Indications of Points on the Crus of the
Helix and the Helix ········· ··· ··· ··· ··· ······ ······ ··· ······ (23)
2. Locations and Indications of Points on the Scaphoid
v
 Fossa ···························································· (25)
3. Locations and Indications of Points on the Antihelix
..••.••.•••••••••.•.•••.•••••••••..••..•••••...•.••••..•.•••••••.•••. (27)

4. Locations and Indications of Points on the Triangular

Fossa ............................................................ (30)
5. Locations and Indications of Points on the Tragus
..................................................................... (32)
6. Locations and Indications of Points on the Antitragus
································'-·················· .................. (34)
7. Locations and Indications of Points on the Inferior
Concha ......................................................... (36)
8. Locations and Indications of Points on the Superior
Concha ... ... ...... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... (38)
9. Locations and Indications of Points on the Peripheral
Crus of the Helix ··· ·· · · ·· · ·· · ·· · · · ··· · · · · · · ··· ·· · ·· · ·· · · · · ·· · ( 40)
10. Locatisms and Indications of Points on the Earlobe
........................... ······ ................................. (41)

11. Locations and Indications of Points on the Dorsal

Surface of the Auricle .. •.. · ........... · .. · ........ · .. · .. · ( 44)
CHAPTER FOUR AURICULAR DIAGNOSTIC
METHODS .............................. ;................................ (47)
· Auricular Inspection .......................................... (47)
0

I Auricular Palpation .......................................... (50)

I Measurement of AuricularElectrical Resistance ...... (52)
CHAPTER FIVE COMMONLY USED AURICULAR
THERAPEUTIC METHODS ....................................... (55)
Auricular Taping ............................................. (55)
I Auricular Blood-Letting Puncturing ··· .................. (60)
I Auricular Pressure ............................................. (63)
VI
 N Auricular Massage ···············•···············•·••·•········ (64)
CHAPTER SIX PRINCIPLES FOR THE SELECTION
OF AURICULAR POINTS ····•·•·······•························ (65)
Choose Points According to the Location of the Disea-
sed or Affected Area of the Body ·········•·•············ (65)
li Choose Points According to the Principles of Tradi-
tional Chinese Medicine ················•······················ (67)
m Choose Points According to the Principles of Modern
Medicine · · · ·· · · · · · · · · ·· · ·· ·· · · · · · · · · · · •· · · · · •·· · •· ·• · ·· · · ·• ··· ·· · ( 74)
N Choose Points According to Clinical Experience ( 74)

PART TWO PRACTICUM

CHAPTER SEVEN TREATMENT OF INTERNAL

DISEASES AND DISORDERS ................................. (79)

1. Hypertension················································ (79)
2. Angina Pectoris ···••····••·••·•···•·····•••••····••·•·•·· (81)
3. Cardiac Neurosis ··· ··· ••· •·• •·· ··· ·• •••··• ·•· ... •·• •·· •·· (82)
4. Rheumatic Arthritis ....................................... (84)
s. Chronic Bronchitis ....................................... (85)
6. Bronchial Asthma ···········•···••-:•••••••••••••··········· (86)
7. Vomiting ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· •·· ··· ··· ··· ··· (87)
8. Hiccups ······································~··············· (89)
9. Gastrointestinal Neurosis .............................. (90)
10. Esophagitis ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ( 92)
11. Gastritis······················································ (93)
12. Acute Gastroenteritis .................................... (95)
13. Peptic Ulcer ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ··· ( 96)
14. Chronic Diarrhea ..................... ~ .................... (98)
VI
 15. Constipation ................................................ (99)
16. Headache ................................................... (100)
17. Neurosism ................................................ (102)
18. Peripheral Neuritis ....................................... (104)
19. Epilepsy ................................................... (105)
20. Hysteria ... : ................................................ (106)
21: Rheumatoid Arthritis ................................. 008)
22. Hyperthyroidism .......................................... (110)
23. Diabetes Mellitus ...... ...... ... ...... ...... ...... ...... 011)
24. Diabetes Insipidus ....................................... 013)
25. Enuresis Nocturna ....................................... (114)

CHAPTER EIGHT TREATMENT OF SURGICAL

DISEASES AND DISORDERS ................................. (116)

1. Acute Mastitis .......................................... (116)

2. Cystic Hyperplasia of the Breast ..................... (117)
3. Cholecystitis ............................................. (119)
4. Pancreatitis ...... ... ... ... ...... ...... ... ... ... ...... ... ... (120)
5. Appendicitis ...........,. ................................. (122)
6. Cholelithiasis ............................................. (123)
7. Cystitis .............................. ,.................... (125)
8. . Epididymitis ............................................. (126)
9. Prostatitis ...................................... , ......... (127)
10. Hyperplasia of the Prostate ........................... 029)
11. Hemorrhoids ........... · ....................... · .. · .. · ... ( 130)
12. Pyelonephritis ............................................. (132)
13. Urinary Stones ··· ············ ········· ······ ········· ••• (133)
14. Seminal Emission ....................................... (135)
VI
 15. Impotence ··· ··························· ·················· (136)
16. Cervical Spondylopathy ................................. 038)
17. Costal Chondritis ·········•·••·•··••··•····•••••··•···•• (139)
18. Scapulohumeral Periarthritis ........................ 040)
19. External Humeral Epicondylitis ..................... 042)
20. Stiff Neck ··• ·•· •·· ···•··•·•••· ··••·••·· .................. (143)
21. .Acute Soft Tissue Injury .............................. 044)
22. Lumbar Muscle Strain ................................. 045)
23. Postconcussional Syndrome ........................... 046)
24. Facial Spasm ............................................. (147)
25. Intercostal Neuralgia .................................... 049)
26. Trigeminal Neuralgia .................................... 050)
27. Sciatica ······················································ (151)
28. Calcaneodynia ............................................. (152)
29. Phantom Limb Pain .................................... (153)
30. Erythomelagia ............................................. (154)
31. Thromboangiitis Obliterans ........................... 055)
32. Raynard's Disease ........................................ (157)

CHAPTER NINE TREATMENT OF GYNECOLOGICAL

DISEASES AND DISORDERS ................................. 059)

1. Dysfunctio'nal Uterine Bleeding ........................ 059)

2. Dysmenorrhea ············································· (160)
3. Premenstrual Syndrome ................................. (162)
4. Menopausal Syndrome .................................... (163)
5. Amenorrhea ·············································':'·· (164)
6. Leukorrhagia················································ (165)
7. Chronic Pelvic Inflammation ........................... 067)
IX
 8. Prolapse of the Uterus ................................. 068)

CHAPTER TEN TREATMENT OF DISEASES AND

DISORDERS OF THE SENSORY ORGANS ............ 070)

1. Myopia •·· ••••·· ··· ··· ·····•·•· ··• ··· ··· ... •·· •·••·· ·•• ··· ··· (170)
2. Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis ··· ··• ·•· ··· ·•· •·• ··· ··· 071)
3. Stye ······ .~........ ··· ··············· ··· ······ ········· ··· ··· (172)
4. Central Retinitis .......................................... (173)
5. Simple Glaucoma ....................................... (174)
6. Allergic Rhinitis .......................................... (175)
7. Suppurative Nasal Sinusitis ........................... 076)
8· Toothache ................................................ (178)
9. Acute Tonsillitis .......................................... (179)
10. Chronic Pharyngitis ...... · ·· ......... · ........ · .. · .... · 080)
11. Pharyngeal Paraesthesia .............................. (181)
12. Recurrent Ulcer of the Mouth ........................ 082)
13. Chronic Otitis Media Purulenta ..................... 084)
14. Meniere's Disease ....................................... (185)
15. Dysfunction of the Temperomandibular Joint
............................................................... (187)

CHAPTER ELEVEN TREATMENT OF SKIN

DISEASES AND DISORDERS ................................. 089)

1. Urticaria .................................... , .............. (189)

2. Eczema ...... ~ ............................................... (190)
3. Herpes Zoster ............................................. (192)
4. Cutaneous Pruritis ....................................... (193)
X
 5. Neurodermatitis ......... ••· .............................. (194)
6. Acne Vulgaris ............................................. (196)
7. Seborrheic Dermatitis ................................. 097)
8. Erythema Multiforma ................................. (198)
9. Furunculosis ............................................. (199)
10. Brandy Nose .............................................. (20~)

11. Chloasma ................................................... (202)

CHAPTER TWELVE TREATMENT OF MISCELLANEOUS

DISEASES AND DISORDERS ... ...... ...... ... ......... ...... (204)

1. ·Influenza ................................................... (204)

2. Mumps ...... •·• ............... ·•· ........................... (205)
3. Motion Sickness ........................................... (206)
4. Obesity ................................................... (207)
5. Drug Withdrawal ....................................... (209)
6. Tobacco Withdrawal .................................... (210)
7. Alcohol Withdrawal .................................... (211)
8. Childhood Anorexia .................................... (212)
9.
.
Competition Syndrome ................................. (213)
10. Childhood Hyperkinetic Syndrome .................. (214)
11. Mental Retardation .................................... (215)
APPENDIX GUIDE FOR INDEPENDENT STUDY ... (217)
APPENDIX li LIST OF AURICULAR POINTS ............ (219)
APPENDIX ][ TERMINOLOGY OF TRADITIONAL
CHINESE MEDICINE .................... ~ ... (223)

XI
 INTRODUCTION
Auricular therapy has a very long history in China. The
earliest recorded
.
mention of the close
. relationship between the ear
and the body is found in the Silk Book Meridians, written around
500 B. C. , which stated that the ear meridian originates in the
dorsal surface· of the hand and ascends to enter the ear. Auricular
diagnostic and therapeutic methods were first documented in Nei
Jing, the Classic of Medicine, written around 200 B. C. , which
stated that the nature and location of various diseases could be
determined by inspection of the shape , color, moistness , and
collaterals of the ear. It recommended the use of blood-letting
puncturing of the collaterals of the ear to treat headache and pain in
the hypochondriac region.
Later practitioners continued to develop the practical
application of auricular diagnosis and treatrp-ent and to do research
into the mechanisms of auricular therapy. During the Jin dynasty
( 265-420 A. D. ) , auricular massage was widely used both to
preserve health and to diagnose and treat various diseases and
disorders. The use of auricular acupuncture and moxibustion was
first recorded during the Tang dynasty (608-907 A. D.). During
the Ming dynasty 0368-1644 A. D. ) , auricularmedicinal coating
came into use, and auricular massage for children was popular.
During the Qing dynasty 0644-1911 A. D. ) , the use of auricular
temperature measurement as a means of prognosis was· recorded,
and the first somatotopic ear map and auricular massage chart
·XDI
appeared. (see Figures 1, 2)
Further breakthroughs in both the theory and practice of
Chinese auricular therapy have been made since the introduction in
1958 of French p-ractitioner Dr. Paul Nogier' s discovery of the
inverted-fetus shape distribution pattern of auricular points. Using
a combination of Dr. Nogier' s theory and traditional Chinese
medicine, Chinese practitioners have developed Chinese auricular
therapy, characterized by diagnosis and treatment according to
Chinese meridian theory.
Auricular therapy has received increasing international
recognition and welcome in recent years due to its wide indications,
good results, safety, and simplicity. It is currently being practiced
in several dozen countries and territories, and the World Health
Organization ( WHO ) has recognized auricular therapy as an
effective means of treatment for a wide variety of diseases and
disorders. In order to promote international exchange of
information concerning auricular therapy, as well as continued
research into its mechanism, m 1982 the World · Health
Organization requested the <:;hinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion
Association to formulate the International Standard of Auricular
Points CISAP). The !'ractical Auricular Point and Area Map and
Chinese Auricular Therapy, written in both Chinese and English,
use the International Standard of Auricular Points as their basis.
The newly designed Practical Auricular Point and Area Map
represents a breakthrough in auricular therapy when compared
with the traditional model. Map-drawing theory, with clear
differentiation of colors and areas, has been utilized to produce a
three-dimensional effect. Most importantly, areas as well as points
are emphasized in order to more accurately reflect the nature and
XIV
distribution of auricular points.
Chinese Auricular Therapy is written clearly and practically in
order to allow its use by the widest readership, from professionals
to those engaged in independent study. It is composed of two
parts. The Foundation introduces auricular anatomy, the
mechanism of auricular diagnosis and treatment, locations and
indications. of auricular points, commonly used auricular diagnostic
and therapeutic methods, and principles for the selection of
auricular points. The Practicum discusses etiology, pathology,
differ-entiation of signs and symptoms, and the treatment of one
hundred and one different diseases and disorders. Both on the map
and in the book, auricular points and areas are indicated by capital
letters (e. g. Apex of Ear, Stomach, etc. ) , and structural parts
of the ear are indicated by small letters (e. g. earlobe, scaphoid
fossa , etc. ) . Parts of the body are also referred to by small letters
(e. g. upper abdomen, bronchi, etc. ) .
Throughout the book, prominence is gtven to three factors
which directly influence the results of auricular therapy, i. e.
accurate location, correct selection, and sufficient stimulation of
auricular points.
1. Locate auricular points accurately. Because of the difficu-
lty of locating points precisely on the small auricle, the
International Standard of Auricular Points depicts points and areas
in conjunction. Areas are relative and points are absolute: each
area consists of a collection of points corresponding to a certain part
of the body; areas are not discrete units but rather are closely
related to one another. The ·Practical Auricular Therapy Point and
Area Map utilizes map-drawing theory, with clear differentiation of
colors and areas, to vividly and accurately reflect the distribution of
XV
auricular points. As in using a geographical map to locate a small ·
town, when looking for a specific auricular point we must first
determine the "state" or general area in which it is located. Its
precise location may then be pinpointed by means of auricular
inspection, palpation, or measurement of electrical resistance. In
other words, the detection of auricular points is always combined
with the diagnostic process. In fact, the French doctor Paul Nogier
discovered the inverted-fetus distribution pattern of auricular
points during the process of detecting and mapping tender points on
the auricle.
2. Select auricular points correctly. Choosing auricular points
is similar to prescribing herbal medicine-- good results in
auricular therapy are dependent on correct selection of points to be
treated. Although choosing auricular points correctly is a
complicated process, there are specific rules to be followed. These
rules are discussed at length in Chapter 6. In addition, auricular
treatment of one hundred and one different diseases and disorders,
based on the author's clinical experience as well as the most up-to-
date developments in auricular therapy, are given in detail.
3. Provide sufficient stimulation. Auricular therapy depends
on the stimulation of auricular points in order to regulate the
meridians, qi, blood, Zangfu or.gans, and the balance of yin and
yang. In order for good results to be achieved, proper and sufficient
stimulation must be provided. Generally speaking, sufficient
stimulation refers to as much as the patient can bear. There should
be sensations of heat and distension in the auricle being treat.ed.
Simultaneous taping of main points on both frontal and dorsal
surfaces and extended pressure are two methods used to provide
increased stimulation. The latter is especially suitable for children,
XVI
 the elderly, and those with weak constitutions or who are prone to
fainting.
If the above three points are followed in the clinical practice of
auricular therapy, satisfactory results will assuredly be achieved.

Figure 1 Distribution of the five lang organs on the dorsal surface of the
auricle (from Qing dynasty, Lizheng Anmoyao Shu by, Zhang
Zhenyun, 1888)

XVI
 r

Figure 2 Picture of auricular massage: Two Phoenixes Opening Their Wings

(from Qing dynasty, Lizheng Anm2J&O Shu by Zhang Zhenyun,
1888)

XVI
 PART ONE
FOUNDATION
 CHAPTER ONE
ANATOMY OF THE AURICLE

I Anatomical Nomenclature of the

Surfaces of the Auricle
Frontal Surface (Figure 1-lA)

-~-- Tubercle ol Helix

----'""-'~__..,....__ Superior Crus of Antihelix

Scaphoid Fossa
Superior Concb,a--~-..---­ Helb
Crus of Helix -HI-r-Antibelb
Notch SuPI!rior to Tragus----'tr-:-~--"'\

Inferior Concha ---IL--J---

J---1~~,__ Notch between Antitragus
Tragu,o--4-
and Antihelix
~---¥---:f-:--Antitragus

Notch between ·Tragus-~'--_.,,.

and Antitragus

Figure 1-lA Anatomical nomenclature of the auricle (frontal surface)

Helix: the portion of the auricular border that bends inward.
Tubercle of the helix: the nodular process on the

3
 laterosuperior portion of the auricle.
Crus of the helix: the portion of the auricle which extends into
the auricular concha.
Antihelix: the prominence opposite the helix.
Superior crus of the antihelix: the superior branch of the upper
portion of the antihelix.
Inferior crus of the antihelix: the inferior branch of the upper
portion of the antihelix.
Triangular fossa: the triangular depression between the two
branches of the antihelix.
Scaphoid fossa: the groove between the helix and the
antihelix.
Tragus: the valviform projection in front of the auricle.
Antitragus: the projection superior to the lobe and contrary to
the tragus.
Supratragic notch: the depression between the crus of the
helix and the tragus.
Intertnragic notch: the depression between the tragus and the
antitragus.
Notch between antitragus and antihelix: the depression
between the antitragus and antihelix.
Superior concha: the concha above the crus of the helix.
Inferior concha : the concha below the crus of the helix.
Lobe: the lowest portion of the auricle, containing no
cartilege.
Dorsal Surface (Figure l-IB)
Dorsal surface of the helix.
Dorsal surface of the earlobe.
Dorsal eminence of the scaphoid fossa.

4
 -'\---Eminence of Triangular Fossa
,_--~.----~Groove of Dorsal Surface

Dorsal Surface of Helix

Figure 1-lB Anatomical nomenclature

of the auricle (dorsal surface)
Dorsal eminence of the triangular fossa.
Dorsal eminence of the superior concha.
Dorsal eminence of the inferior concha.
Groove of the dorsal surface: the groove on the dorsal surface
of the auricle resembling a "Y," formed by the antihelix and
its two branches.

n Histological Structure of the Auricle

The auricle is a complicated structure consisting externally of
skin and internally of elastic cartilege and supporting tissues such
as ligaments, lipids, connective tissue, and muscle. There is a rich
subcutaneous distribution of nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic

5
 r
f

vessels.
Five primary nerves are present in the auricle. (Figure 1-2A
and Figure 1-2B)
1. Great auricular nerve: stems from the second and third
cervical nerves and separates into two branches at the auricle. The
lower branch distributes primarily to the frontal and dorsal surfaces
of the earlobe, scaphoid fossa, helix, antihelix, antitragus,
triangular fossa, and the lateral borders of both the superior and
inferior concha. The upper branch distributes primarily to the
lower two-thirds of the dorsal surface of the auricle, the helix, the
antihelix, and the triangular fossa.

Great Auricular
Nerve

Auriculotemporal Nerve

Nerve, Vagus Nerve and Facial

Nerve

Figure l-2A Distribution of nerves on the auricle (frontal surface)

2; Lesser occipital nerve: stems from the second cervical nerve
and separates into three branches at the dorsal surface of the
auricle. One or two branches may pass through the auriclP to the

6
frontal surface. The lesser occipital nerve distributes primarily to
the upper one-third of the dorsal surface of the auricle-, the
posteriosuperior border of the helix, the triangular fossa, both
superior and inferior crura of the antihelix, and the upper part of
the scaphoid fossa.
3. Auriculotemporal nerve: stems from the mandibular branch
of the trigeminal nerve and separates into three branches: 1 )
branch of the external auditory canal , distributing to the anterior
border and anterior superior walls of the external auditory canal,.,
the drum membrane , the crus of the helix , and the superior

Great Auricular Nerve

pharyngt:'al :"'erve. Vagu~

Nerve and Facial Nerve

Figure l-2B Distribution of nerves on the auricle (dorsal surface)

concha; 2) branch of the tragus, distributing to both the frontal
and dorsal surfaces of the tragus; 3) anterior auricular branch,
distributing to the crus of the helix, the upper portion of the helix,
and the triangular fossa.
4. Combined branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus

7
 r
r

nerve, and facial nerve: separates into two branches: 1) anterior

auricular branch distributing to the external acoustic foramen, the
origin of the crus of the helix, and both inferior and superior
concha; 2) posterior branch of the facial nerve, distributing to the
middle dorsal surface of the auricle proximal to the ear root, and
the internal and external muscles of the dorsal auricular surface.
5. Sympathetic n~rve: stems from the plexus sympathici of the
carotid plexus and distributes along the auricular arteries.
The nerves distributing to the auricle include both spinal and
cranial. Spinal nerves (e. g. the great auricular nerve and the lesser
occipital nerve) distribute primarily to the lobe, scapha, helix, and
antihelix; cranial nerves (e. g. the auriculotemporal nerve and the
combined branch of the glossopharyngeal, vagus, and facial
nerves ) distribute primarily to the superior and inferior concha.
Nearly all nerves send branches to the triangular fossa as ;Well.
The blood supply of the auricle is very rich, all the arteries
stemming from the external carotid artery (e. g. the superficial
temporal artery and the posterior fiUricular artery). The lymphatic
vessels of the auricle are also plentiful, usually being reticular in
shape and connecting with the periauricular lymph nodes.

m Relationship of the Auricle,

the Meridians , and the Zangfu Organs
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the meridians link
the internal organs and the external tissues, making the human
body into an organic whole. There is an integral relationship
between the meridians and the a~ricle as well. It is recorded in the
Silk Book Meridians, the earliest book concerning the meridians,
that there are five meridians that are connected with the auricle.

8
They are foot Taiyang, foot Shaoyang, arm Shaoyin, Ear Mai
(i.e. the.San Jiao meridian of Hand Shaoyang), and Shoulder Mai
(i.e. the small intestine meridian of Hand Taiyang). More extensive
information is found in a later book, the Lingshu. According to this
book, all of the meridians of the hand and the foot are directly
connected with the auricle, i.e. , the collateral of Hand Yangming
enters the ear; the stomach meridian of Foot Yangming is anterior
to the ear; the small intestine meridian of Hand Taiyang enters the
ear; the branch "of the urinary bladder meridian of Foot Taiyang is
superior to the ear; the San Jiao meridian of Hand Shaoyang
extends upward along the ear root and its branch enters the ear;
the gallbladder meridian of Foot Shaoyang follows the ear root
downward and its branch enters the ear, subsequently reappearing
at the anterior portion of the ear. The Lingshu further states that
the yin meridians of both the hand and the foot are also connected
with the auricle through their major branches, which converge with
the corresponding major branches of the yang meridians. In
addition, the Yinqiao and Yangqiao meridians distribute to the area
posterior to the ear .root, and the Y angwei meridian passes through
the head and subsequently enters the ear. In short, all the
meridians of the human body converge at the ear.
There is also a close relationship between the Zangfu organs
and the ears, since the meridians connecting with the ears also
correspond internally to the Zangfu organs. According to Zangfu
theory, the ears are particularly closely related to the kidneys. It is
considered that the kidneys open into the ears and that the kidney-
qi nourishes the ears. Modern research has found that the shape of
the auricle is related to the development of the internal organs,
especially the kidneys.

9
 r
r
J)r •. Zhang Zhenyun of the late Qing dynasty proposed the
holistic concept that the dorsal surface of the auricle corresponds to
the five Zang organs , and created the first chart showing the
distribution of the Zang organs on the dorsal auricular surface.
(Figure 1)

10
 CHAPTER TWO
MECHANISM OF AURICULAR
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Auricular therapy has been proven to be effective in the

diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases and disorders,
and extensive research based on clinical findings has been done to
investigate its mechanism. At present, the following three theories
concerning the mechanism of auricular diagnosis and treatment are
widely accepted.

I Homuncular Reflex Theory

The concept of homuncular reflex theory was first raised only
a few years ago. In order to understand this concept, we must first
introduce the theory of the inverted-fetus pattern of auricular point
distribution developed in the 1950's by French scholar Dr. Paul
Nogier, the founder of modern auricular therapy. In his Treatise of
Auricular Therapy, published in 1972, Dr. Nogier explains the
process of his discovery. After being trained in techniques of
Chinese acupuncture and observing several patients who were
successfully treated for sciatica by cauterization of a point on the
inferior crus of the antihelix, Dr. Nogier conducted further
investigation into this method, with equally successful results.
After analyzing these clinical findings, he postulated that if the
point on the inferior crus of the antihelix which related to sciatica

11
also represented the sciatic nerve, then the rest of the antihelix
r
!
I

must represent the vertebral column, but in an inverted position.

Confirming this hypothesis with several clinical studies, he made
the logical extension that other parts of the ear must correspond to
other parts of the body, also oriented in an upside-down position.
Nogier came to view the auricle as a homunculus of the human body
similar in shape to an. inverted fetus, with the head towards the
lower lobe, the feet towards the upper rim of the ear, and the body
in between.
Dr. Nogier 's theory was collaborated by the following clinical
observations. When there is dysfunction or disorder in a certain
part of the body, there is an increase in tenderness when palpated
and a decrease in electric skin resistance in the corresponding part
of the ear. Sometimes there are observable structural changes at
these points, such as shiny redness, white flakiness, or eminence.
When these auricular points are treated with taping, pressure,
massage, electrical stimulation, or puncturing, there is often
immediate relief of discomfort or other somatic changes in the
corresponding parts of the body.
Homuncular reflex theory offers an explanation . for the
somatotopic relationship between the ear and the body. In the
homuncular reflex arc, the homuncularly related neurons in the
brain are the center of the reflex arc, centrally located in the brain
stem. Message transfer among auricular points, homuncularly
related neurons, and parts of the body corresponding to the
auricular points is bi-directional. (Figure 2-1)

12
 Cerebral Cortex

Brain Stem

I
Parts of the body correspon-
\
Auricular points, such as Feet,
ding. to the auricular points, Heart, and Eye
such as Feet, Heart and Eye
Figure 2-1 Diagram demonstrating the pathway of the
homuncular reflex arc between the ear
and the body

1£ Delta Reflex Theory

The concept of Delta reflex theory was put forward by
Korean-American M. H. Cho in the 1970's. Dr. Cho was an
internist who had been trained in auricular therapy in Japan and
France. He developed a combination of auricular and body
acupuncture which he referred to as electrical stimulation of
auriculosomatic points. He later conducted the following
experiment to further investigate the relationship between the ear
and the body. The. detector of an electric thermometer was taped to
various ~uricular points, such as Fingers, Feet, and Knee, one point
at a time. After the indicator of the thermometer stabilized, the
parts of the body corresponding to the auricular points were

13
stimulated by cold, heat, or acupuncture. After ten to fifteen
seconds, a 1. 0 to 5. 5 OC increase in the temperature of the auricular
r
points corresponding to the stimulated body parts was reccorded.
II
Conversely, when the auricular points were stimulated, there was
also an increase in the temperature of the corresponding parts of
the body. Dr. Cho named this phenomenon Delta reflex because the
pathway of the reflex.arc is triangular. (Figure 2-2)
Cerebral Cortex
(higher center )

Inferior Colliculus

1l
Medulla Oblongata

;wereen\
Spinal Cord

Parts of the body corresponding to Auricular points, such

auricular points, such as Fingers, as Fingers, Feet, and Knee
Feet, and Knee
Figure 2-2 Diagram demonstrating the pathway of the Delta reflex
Based upon his further investigations, Dr. Cho postulated that
14
the relationship of the auricular points and their corresponding
body parts is similar to that of a key and its lock, that is, the
"key" of auricular stimulation can open tht: "lock,. of somatic
response in the corresponding parts of the body.

II[ Meridian Theory

In China, the discovery of the somatotopic relationship
between the ear and the body occurred prior to the development of
the practical application of auricular diagnosis and treatment.
Through the processes of observing the phenomenon of the linkage
of- the organs and tissues through meridian transfer and developing
meridian theory, the ancient Chinese realized that the ear is closely
related to the body. It was first documented in the Silk Book ,China'
s earliest medical treatise written approximately 500 B. C, that the
ear meridian originates in the dorsal surface of the hand and
ascends to enter the ear. Nei Jing, the Classic of Medicine, written
around 200 B. C. , concluded that all meridians converge at the ear.
Modern clinical investigation has provided evidence in support of
meridian theory by demonstrating that a phenomenon resembling
meridian transmission may occur in meridian-sensitive subjects
when auricular points are stimulated. For example, when Urinary
Bladder is stimulated, somatic sensations such as flowing water,
electric shock, or formication may be induced along the urinary
bladder meridian; when Stomach is stimulated, somatic sensations
may occur along the pathway of the stomach meridian. As in
acupuncture, therapeutic results will be favorable if needling
sensations such as heat, distension, pain, or radiation are achieved
when auricular points are stimulated. Dr. Nogier explained the
mechanism of auricular therapy by postulating that there ts a

15
specific system of energy pathways in the auricle consisting of
r
!

neither vessels nor nerves. His theory is consistent with Chinese

meridian theory.
Additionally, extensive clinical findings have shown that
auricular points corresponding to the Zangfu organs can be used not
only to diagnose and treat problems of the Zangfu organs, but also
to diagnose and treat problems of the organs and tissues which are
related to the Zangfu organs. For instance, the lungs are connected
internally and externally with the large intestine, so Lung can be
used to diagnose and treat problems of the large intestine such as
constipation and diarrhea. Conversely, Large Intestine can also be
used to diagnose and treat problems of the lungs, such as asthma
and bronchitis. The stomach meridian distributes to the teeth, face,
and front of the head, so Stomach can be used to diagnose and treat
toothache, facial spasm, and frontal headache. The liver meridian
distributes to the lower abdomen, hypochondriac region, chest,
eyes, and vertex of the head, so Liver can be used to diagnose and
treat lower abdominal pain, hypochondriac pain, feelings of
fullness in the chest, optical problems, and vertex headache. The
urinary bladder meridian distributes to the lumbosacral region and
posterior side of the leg and thigh, So Urinary Bladder can be used
to diagnose and treat lower backache and sciatica.
It should be emphasized that diagnosis and treatment according
to Zangfu and meridian theory is one of the most important
characteristics of Chinese auricular therapy, and will certainly
provide the theoretical basis for further research and increased
understanding of the workings of the human body.

16
l
!
t

CHAPTER THREE
AURICULAR POINTS
I The Distribution Rule of Auricular
Points and Areas
The auricle is a miniature of the entire human body; each part
of the body has a corresponding auricular point or area. These
points and areas reflect the physiological and pathological condition
of the body, and can be stimulated to regulc:le dysfunction of their
corresponding body parts. The distribution of auricular points and
areas resembles an upside-down fetu~ in shape·. (Figure 3-1)

Figure 3-1 Figurative drawing of the distribution of auricular

points viewed as an inverted fetus

17
 r
The lobe corresponds to the head and face.
The antitragus corresponds to the head and brain.
The tragus corresponds to the throat and internal nose.
The body of the antihelix corresponds to the trunk.
The superior crus of the antihelix corresponds to the lower
limbs.
The inferior crus of the helix corresponds to the buttocks.
The scaphoid fossa corresponds to the upper limbs.
The triangular fossa corresponds to the pelvic cavity and the
internal genitals.
The crus of the helix corresponds to the diaphragm.
The peripheral crus of the helix corresponds to the digestive
tract.
The superior concha corresponds to the abdominal cavity.
The inferior concha corresponds to the thoracic cavity.
Each part of the body has a corresponding auricular point or
area. The distribution of auricular points and areas resembles an
upside-down in utero fetus in shape. (See frontispiece)

n Methods for Locating Auricular Points

Locating auricular points accurately is essential if auricular
therapy is to have favorable results. In order to simplify the
process, the International Standard of Auricular Points divides the
auricle into sixty areas. Each area consists of a collection of points
corresponding to a certain part of the body. The distribution of the
points within each area' as well as the areas themselves' are upside
down in relation to the body, in accordance with the distribution
rule of auricular points and areas. For example, Stomach adjoining
the crus of the helix represents the lesser curvature of the stomach;

18
Stomach adjoining the antihelix represents the greater curvature of
the stomach; Stomach adjoining Duodenum represents the pylorus.
In the case of Abdomen, the upper part of Abdomen represents the
lower abdomen, the middle part of Abdomen represents the middle
abdomen, and the lower part of Abdomen represents the upper
abdomen.
When. locating auricular points, as in looking for a small town
on a geographical map, we must first determine in which "state",
or area, they are located. Only then can auricular diagnostic
methods such as inspection, palpation, and measurement of
electrical resistance be used to determine their precise location.
Thus, it can be seen .that in clinical practice the locating of
auricular points is always combined with the diagnostic process.
In addition to locating auricular points and areas according to
the International Standard of Auricular Points, we can al~o deduce
the location of additiopal points and areas corresponding to other
parts of the body by using the distribution rule of auricular points.
For instance, the area corresponding to the lumbar muscles is
found between Lumbosacral Vertebrae and the scaphoid fossa; the
area corresponding to the bronchi is located between Trachea and
Lung; the area corresponding to the breasts is found between Ghest'
and Thoracic Vertebrae. The precise location of these areas can be
determined by means of auricular diagnosis:

m Nomenclature and Indications of Auricular Points

There are ninety points listed in the International Standard of
Auricular Points. (Figure 3-2) They are classified into four types
according to their nomenclature:
1. Sixty-one points named according to gross anatomy,

19
comprising 67. 8% of the total. These include points corresponding
to the trunk, limbs, sensory organs, and internal organs, and are
used in the treatment of diseases and disorders of their
corresponding body parts. For example, Eye is used to treat
opthal~atic problems such as pseudomyopia, blurred vision and
conjunctivitis; Stomach is used to treat gastric disorders such as
gastritis and gastric ulCer. In addition, points corresponding to the
Zangfu organs can also be used to treat diseases and disorders of
the organs and tissues to which the Zangfu organs are related. For
example, the lungs nourish the skin, so Lung can be used to treat
skin diseases such as cutaneous pruritis, acne, and
neurodermatitis; the large intestine is connected externally and
internally with the lungs, so Large Intestine can be used to treat
pulmonary problems such as bronchitis and asthma; the urinary
bladder meridian passes through the back and the posterior side of
the lower limbs, so Urinary Bladder can be used to treat lumbago
and sciatica.
2. Points named according to auricular anatomy. There are
twenty points and areas in this group, comprising 22. 2% of the
total. Indications of these points are usually determined according
to clinical experience; for example, Apex of Ear has been found to
dissipate heat and expel wind in inflammatory conditions; Groove
of Dorsal Surface can lower blood pressure in cases of
hypertension.
3. Points named according to moder~ medicine. There are five
points, comprising 5. 9% of the total, in this group, having
vanous functions. Subcortex can rebalance excitiation and
inhibition of the cortex in diseases caused by dysfunction of the
cortex, such as neurosism, functional disturbance of the autonomic

20
 nervous system, gastroduodenal ulcer, hypertension, and coronary
heart diseases ..Adrenal Gland has anti-inflammatory, antiallergic
and antirheumatic properties, so it is effective for treating
inflammatory conditions, allergies, and rheumatic problems.
4. Points named according to traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM). There are four points in this group, comprising 4. 4% of
the total. Their indications are closely related to their names, for
instance, Liver-Yang can soothe the liver-yang in conditions caused
by its hyperactivity, such as dizziness, headache, and tinnitis;
Wind Stream is effective for eliminating wind in diseases caused by
invasion of wind such as allergies and skin conditions.

\
r -21

l
 Table
Classification of Auricular Points
Points named Trunk, limbs Fingers, Wrist, Elbow, Shoulder,
according to Clavicle, Toes, Heel, Knee, Ankle, Hip,
gross ariato- Buttock , Cervical Vertebrae , Thoracic
my Vertebrae, Lumbosacral Vertebrae,
Neck, Chest, Abdomen

Head, face, External Ear, External Nose, Internal

sensory Nose, Throat, Occiput, Temple,
organs Forehead, Mouth, Eye 1, Eye 2, Teeth,
Tongue, Jaw, Eye, Internal Ear, Cheek,
Tonsil

Internal Rectum, Urethra, External Genitals,

organs Anus, Pelvis, Internal Genitals, Heart,
Lung, Trachea, Spleen, Esophagus,
Cardia, Stomach, Duodenum, Small
Intestine, Large Intestine, Appendix,
Liver, Pancreas &. Gallbladder, Kidney,
Ureter, Urinary Bladder, Heart of Dorsal
Surface, Spleen of Dorsal Surface, Liver
of Dorsal Surface, Lung of Dorsal
Surface, Kidney of Dorsal Surface

Points named according to Center of Apex of Ear, Helix 1-Helix 6,

auricular anatomy
Middle Triangular Fossa, Superior
Triangular Fossa, Apex of Antitragus,
Apex of Tragus, Angle of Superior
Concha, . Center of Superior Concha,
Anterior Lobe, Midpoint of Rim, Upper
Ear Root , Root of Ear ·Vagus , Lower Ear
Root , Groove of Dorsal Surface

Points named according to Sciatic Nerve, Sympathesis, Adrenal

modern medicine Gland, Subcortex, Endocrine

Points named according to Liver-Yang, Wind Stream, Ear

traditional Chinese medicine Shenmen, &.n Jiao
(TCM)

22
 IV Locations and Indications of
Auricular Points
1. Locations and Indications of Points on the Crus of the Helix and
the Helix (Figure 3-3)

Helix6

Figure 3-3 Distribution of auricular points on the crus of helix and helix
Center of Ear
Alternative name: Zero Point, Diaphragm, Neurosis Point.
Location: On the crus of the helix.
Indications: Hiccups, urticaria, cutaneous pruritis, infantile
enuresis, hemoptosis.
Supplementary: The branch of the vagus nerve exits here and
distributes to both the superior and inferior concha, so Center
of Ear is also called Stimulating Point for the Vagus Nerve.

l ' 23
Rectum
Alternative name: Lower Part of Rectum,
Location: On the helix close to the notch superior to the
tragus and level with Large Intestine.
Indications: Constipation, diarrhea, prolapse of the anus,
hemorrhoids.
Urethra
Location: On the helix superior to Rectum, level with Urinary
Bladder.
Indications: Frequent, painful, or dripping urination;
retention of urine.
External ·Genitals
Location: On the helix superior to Urethra, level with
Sympathesis.
Indications: Testitis, ovritis, epididymitis, vulvar or scrotal
pruritis.
Anus
Alternative name: Hemorrhoid Point.
Location: On the helix level with the anterior border of the
superior crus of the antihelix.
Indications: Hemorrhoids, anal £issure.
Apex of Ear
Alternative name: Tonsill.
Location: On the top of the helix level with the posterior
border of the superior crus of the antihelix.
Indications: Fever, hypertension, acute conjunctivitis, stye.
Supplementary: Apex of Ear functions to eliminate wind,
dissipate heat, .calm the mind, brighten the eyes, and benefit
the ears' so it is commonly used in clinical practice to treat

24
 such diseases and disorders as inflammatory conditions,
rheumatic illness, allergies, and mental problems. Blood:.
letting puncturing with a three-edged needle is usually used on
this point.
Liver Yang
Alternative names: Liver Yang 1, Liver Yang 2, Lesser
Occipital Nerve.
Location·: On the tubercie of the helix.
Indications: Dizziness, headache, hypertension.
Helix 1- Helix 6
Location: A line drawn on the helix between the lower border
of the tubercle of the helix and the midpoint of the lower rim
of the lobe is separated into five equal sections. The six points
thus delineated are, from top to bottom, Helix 1, Helix 2,
Helix 3, Helix 4, Helix 5, and Helix 6.
Indications: Tonsilitis, upper respiratory tract infection,
fever.
Supplementary: Blood-letting puncturing with a three-edged
needle is usually used on these points.
2. Locations and Indications of Points on the Scaphoid Fossa
(Figure 3-4)
Fingers
Alternative name: Appendix 1.
Location: The scaphoid fossa ts separated into stx equal
horizontal sections; the uppermost section is Fingers.
Indications: Paronychia, pain and numbness of the fingers.
Wind Stream
Alternative name: Allergy Area, Urticaria Point, Internal
Tubercle.

25

L
 Location: Between Fingers and Wrist.

------Fingers
~-4c--Wind Stream
---'1.--~- Wrist

Figure 3-4 Distribution of auricular points on the scaphoid fossa

Indications: Urticaria, cutaneous pruritis, allergic rhinitis.
Supplementary: Wind Stream functions to eliminate wind,
dissipate heat ,_and remove dampness, so it is very effective for
treating allergies, rheumatic illness and rheumatoid arthritis.
Wrist
Location: On the second section from the top of the scaphoid
fossa.
Indications: Wrist pain.
Elbow
Alternative name: Sleep Inducing Point.
Location: On the third section from the top of the scaphoid
fossa.
Indications: Tennis elbow, elbow pain.
Shoulder

26
 Alternati-ve name: Appendix 2.
Location: On the fourth and fifth section from the top of the
scaphoid fossa.
Indications: Scapulohumeral periatthritis, shoulder pain.
Clavicle
Alternative names: Nephritis Point, Appendix 3.
Location: On the lowermost section of the scaphoid fossa.
Indications: Scapulohumeral periarthritis.
J. Locations and Indications of Points on the Antihelix
(Figure 3-5)

Cervical Vertebrae - - -

Figure 3-5 Distribution of auricular points on the antihelix

Toes
Location: On the posteriosuperior portion of the superior crus
of the antihelix, close to the upper portion of the triangular
fossa.
Indications: Paronychia, pain in the toes.

27
(

l
Heel
Location: On the anteriosuperior portion of the superior crus
of the antihelix, close to the upper portion of the triangular
fossa.
Indications: Heel pain.
Ankle
Location: Between Heel and Knee.
Indications: Strain of the ankle joint.
Knee
Location: On the middle one-third of the superior crus of the
antihelix.
Indications: Swelling and pain of the knee joint.
Hip
Location: On the lower one-third _of the superior crus of the
antihelix.

Buttock
Indications: Pain of the hip joint, sciatica.
I
Locations: On the posterior one-third of the inferior crus of
the antihelix.
Indications: Sciatica, gluteal fasciitis.
Sciatic Nerve
Location: On the anterior one-third of the inferior crus of the
I
i

antihelix.
Indications: Sciatica.
Sympathesis
Location: On the juncture between the terminus of the inferior
crus of the antihelix and the helix.
Indications: Angina pectoris, gastrointestinal spasm, biliary
colic, ureterolith., functional disturbance of the autonomic

28
 nervous system.
Supplementary:
1. Sympathesis functions to alleviats spasticity of the smooth .
muscles, so to is effective for treating pain of the internal
organs.
2. Sympathesis can inhibit glandular secretions, so it is used
to treat diseases and disorders caused by glandular
hypersecretion such as hyperhydrocholia, hyperhydrosis,
and seborrheic dermatitis.
3. Sympathesis should not be used in cases of abdominal
distension or acute abdomen in order to avoid aggravating
the condition by masking the symptoms and preventing
correct diagnosis and timely treatment.
Cervi~! Vertebrae
Alternative name: Thyroid.
Location : The body of the antihelix ( the area between the
notch separating the antitragus and the antihelix, and the
origin of the superior and inferior crus of the antihelix) is
separated into five equal horizontal sections. . Cervical
Vertebrae is located on the lowermost section.
Indications: stiff neck, cervical spondelopathy.
Thoracic Vertebrae
Alternative name: Mammary Gland.
Location: On the upper middle two sections as described
above.
Indications: Chest pain, premenstrual SV'{elling of the breasts,
mastitis.
Lumbosacral Vertebrae
Location: On the upper two sections as described above.

29
 Indications: Pain in the lumbosacral region.
Neck
Location: On the border of the concha anterior to Cervical
Vertebrae.
Indications : Stiff neck , neck pain, or swelling.
Chest
Location: On the border of the concha anterior to Thoracic
Vertebrae.
Indications: Pain in the chest or hypochondriac region, feeling
of fullness in the chest, mastitis.
Abdomen
Location: On the border of the concha anterior to Lumbosacral
Vertebrae.
Indications: Abdominal pain or distension, diarrhea,· acute
lumbar strain.
4. Locations and Indications of Points on the Triangular Fossa
(Figu£e 3-6)

Superior Triangular Fossa --1.-__,4,

Internal Genitals,--1-......,,_
Middle Triangular Fossa _:___,:.~r-- +---+-~--\.-Ear Shenmen
Pelvis•---111,.-~~

Figure 3-6 Distribution of auricular points on the triangular fos&a

30
 Ear Shenmen
Location: On the triangular fossa superior to the origin of the
superior and inferior crus of the antihelix.
Indications: Insomnia, nightmares, pain, withdrawal
syndrome.
Supplementary: Ear Shenmen functions to tranquilize the mind
and relieve pain, so it is used extensively for treating pain and
mentai disorders.
Pelvis
Alternative name: Lumbago Point.
Location: On the triangular fossa inferior to the origin of the
superior and inferior crus of the helix.
Indications: Pelvic inflammation.
Middle Triangular Fossa
Alternative name: Asthma Point, Hepatitis Point.
Location: On the middle one-third of the triangular fossa.
Indications: Asthma.
Internal Genitals
Alternative names: Uterus, Essence Palace, Tian Gui.
Location: On the anterior one-third of the triangular fossa.
Indications: Dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, leukor-
.rhagia, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, seminal emission, prem-
ature ejaculation.
Superior Triangular Fossa
Alternative name: Blood-pressure Lowering Point.
Location: Anteriosuperior to the triangular fossa.
Indications: Hypertension.

31

L
s. Lo~ations and Indications of Points on the Tragus (Figure3-7A
and Figure3-7B)

External Ear~

Figure 3- 'l A Distribution of. auricular points on the tragus (external side)

Figure 3-7B · Distribution of auricular points on the tragus (internal side)

External Ear
Alternative name: Ear
Location: Anterior to the notch supenor to the tragus and
close to the helix.
External Nose
Alternative names: Nose and Eye Cleaning Point, Hunger
Point.

32
 Location: Slightly anterior to the center of the external side of
the tragus.
Indications: Nasal vestibulitis, rhinitis.
Apex of Tragus
Alternative names: Top of Tragus, Thirst Point.
Location: On the top of the upper eminence of the tragus.
Indications: Fever, toothache.
Adrenal Gland
Location: On the top of the lower eminence of the tragus.
Indications: Hypotension, rheumatic arthritis, mumps,
intermittenf malaria, vertigo caused by streptomycin
poisoning.
Supplementary:
1. Adrenal Gland functions to regulate the adrenal gland, so it
is effective for treating diseases and disorders caused by
dyscorticism.
2. Adrenal Gland has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and anti-
rheumatic properties, so it is used for treating rheumatic
diseases, allergies, inflammatory conditions, and collagenosis.
3. Adrenal Gland can strengthen constriction of the blood
vessels, so it is useful for treating hemorrhagic conditions such
as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, hemoptosis , and

I hematochezia.
4. Blood-letting pnncturing of Adrenal Gland with a three-
I edged needle is used for treating inflammatory conditions.

I Throat
Location: On the upper half of the medial side of the tragus.
Indications: Hoarseness, laryngalpharyngitis, tonsilitis.
Internal Nose

33
 Location: On the lower half of the medial side of the tragus.
Indications: Rhinitis, paranasal sinitis, epistaxi.
6. Locations and Indications of Points on the Antitragus (Figure
3-8A and Figure 3-8B) ·

Apex of Antitragus

Temple
Forehead
tz r I I t
-+-1:'-------7/<--- :~:;:~:t
J
- - - """'- _, __ L..-..J-- - - -
of Rim

Figure 3-SA Distribution of auricular points on the antitragus (internal side).

Subcortex

Figure 3-SB Distribution of auricular points on the antitragus (external side).

Apex of Antitragus
Alternative names: Asthma ·Relief Point, Parotid Gland.
Location: On the upper portion of the antitragus.
Indications: Asthma, parotitis, cutaneous pruritis, testitis,
ovritis, epididymitis.
Midpoint of Rim

34
 Alternative names: Brain Point, Brain Stem, ·Enuresis Point.
Location: On the midpoint between Apex of Antitragus and
the notch between the antitragus and the antihelix.
Indications: Nocturnal enuresis, Meniere's disease.
Occiput
Alternative name: Dizziness Point.
Location: On the posteriosuperior portion of the external side
of the antitragus.
Indications: Dizziness, headache, asthma, epilepsy,
neurostsm.
Temple
Alternative name: Taiyang.
Location: On the middle portion of the external side of the
antitragus.
Indications: Migraine.
Forehead
Location: On the anterioinferior portion of the external side of
the antitragus.
Indications: Dizziness, headache, insomnia, nightmares.
Subcortex
Alternative names: Ovary, Testicle, Excitation Point.
Location: On the medial side of the antitragus.
Indications: Pain, intermittent malaria, neurosism, myopia.
Supplementary:
1. Subcortex functions to rebalance the excitiation and
inhibition of the subcortex, and thus is useful for treating
nervous problems such as neurosis, neurosism, and functional
disturbance of the autonomic nervous system.
2. Subcortex can strengthen the digestive function in cases of

35
 digestive disease or disorder such as indigestion, gastritis,
gastroduedenal ulcer, nausea, vomiting, abdominal
distension, diarrhea, constipation, and biliary infection.
3. Subcortex functions to regulate the circulatory system and
so is useful for treating circulatory diseases such as
hypertension and coronary heart disease.
4. Auricular palpation should always be used on Subcortex in
order to precisely locate positive points.
1. Locations and Indications of Points on the Inferior Concha
(Figure3-9)

-Spleen
-+--t---J:.__-Heart
-+~--Lung

Figure 3-9 Distribution of auricular points on the inferior concha.

Heart
Location: On the center of the inferior concha.
Indications: Tachycardia, arrhythmnia, angina pectoris,
pulseless disease, neurosism, hysteria, stomatoglossitis.
Lung
Alternative names: Pulmunary Point, Tuberculosis Point,
Pulmonary Emphysema Point.
Location: On the inferior concha peripheral to Heart.

36
 Indications: Cough, asthma, feeling of fullness in the chest,
hoarseness , acne , cutaneous pruritis , urticaria, flat wart ,
constipation, withdrawal syndrome.
Supplementary: The area between Heart and the inferior
border of the crus of the helix corresponds to the lower lobe of
the lung; the area between Heart and Subcortex corresponds
to the upper lobe of the lung; the areas between Trachea and
the upper and lower lobes of the lung correspond to the
bronchi.
Trachea
Location: On the inferior concha between the foramen of the
external auditory canal and Heart.
Indications: Cough, asthma.
Spleen
Location: On the posteriosuperior portion of the inferior
concha.
Indications: Abdominal distension, diarrhea, constipation,
poor appetite, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, leukorrhagia,
Meniere's disease.
Endocrine
Location: On the base of the inferior concha close to the notch
between the tragus and the antitragus. ..
Indications: Dysmenorrhea , irregular menstruation,
menopausal syndrome, acne, intermittent malaria.
Supplementary:
1. Endocrine functions to regulate the endocrinal system and
thus can be used to treat endocrinal dysfunctions such as
hyperthyroidism, diabetes and obesity.
2. Endocrine has antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory and

37
 antiallergic properties, so it is effective in the treatment of
rheumatic diseases, allergies, inflammation, and urogenital
problems.
San Jiao
Location: On the base of the inferior concha superior to
Endocrine.
Indications: Constipation, abdominal distension, pain on the
lateral side of the upper limbs.
Supplementary: The mixed branch of the glossopharyngeal
nerve, facial nerve, and vagus nerve passes through San Jiao,
so this point is effective in the treatment of facial paralysis,
facial spasm, toothache, and stomatosis.
8. Locations and Indications of Points on the Superior Concha
(Figure 3-10)

Angle of Superior. Concha

-",..,---Urinary Bladder
Ureter--~...,._-. Kidney
Middle Superior Concha Pancreas & Gallbladder

Liver

Figure 3-10 Distribution of auricular points on the superior concha

Liver
Location: On the posteriosuperior portion of the superior

38
 concha.
Indications: Pain in the chest and hypochondriac region,
vertigo, premenstrual syndrome, irregular menstruation,
hypertension, vertigo , pseudomyopia, simple glaucoma.
Pancreas &. Gallbladder ·
Location: Between Liver a·nd Kidney.
Indications: Gallstones, cholecystitis, biliary ascanas1s,
migraine, herpes zoster, otitis media, tinnitus, hearing loss,
acute pancreatitis;·
Kidney
Location: On the superior concha inferior to the origin of the
superior and inferior crus of the helix.
Indications~ Lumbago, tinnitus, neurosism, pyelitis, asthma,
nocturnal enureisis, irregular menstruation, seminal emission,
premature ejaculation.
Ureter
Location: Between Kidney and Urinary Bladder.
Indications: Urethera.l colic.
Urinary Bladder
Location: Between Kidney and Angle of Superior Concha.
Indications: Urocystitis, emires1s, retention of urine,
lumbago, sciatica, occipital headache.
Angle of Superior Concha
Alternative name: Prostate.
Location: On the posteriosuperior angle of the superior
concha.
Indications: Prostitis, urethritis.
Middle Superior Concha
Alternative names: Center of Umbilicus, Ascites, Drunk

39
 Point, Anterior Peritoneum, Posterior Peritoneum.
Location: On the center of the superior concha.
Indications: Abdominal pain or distension, biliary ascariasis ~
parotitis.
9. Locations and Indications of Points on the Peripheral Crus of the
Helix (Figure 3-11)

Figure 3-11 Distribution of auricular points peripheral to the crus helicis

Mouth
Location: The anterior one-third of the area inferior to the
crus of the helix.
Indications: Facial paralysis, stomatitis, cholecystitis,
gallstones, withdrawal syndrome.
Esophagus
Location: The middle one-third of the area inferior to the crus
of the helix.
Indications: esophagitis, esophagospasm, globus hystericus.
Cardia
Location: The anterior one-third of the area inferior to the
crus of the helix.
Indications : Cardiospasm, neurogenic vomiting.

40
Stomach
Alternative names: Pylorus, Gastroptosia Point.
Location: On the terminus of the crus of the helix.
Indications: Gastrospasm,. gastritis, gastric ulcer, insomnia,
toothache, indigestion.
Duodenum
Location: The posterior one-third of the area superior to the
crus of the helix.
Indications: Duodenal ulcer, cholecystitis, gallstones,
pylorospasm.
Small Intestine
Location: The middle one-third of the area superior to the crus
of the helix.
Indications: Indigestion, b.bdominal distension, tachycardia,
arrhythmia.
Large Intestine
Lo~ation: The anterior one-third of the area superior to the
crus of the helix.
Indications: Abdominal distension, constipation, cough,
acne.
Appendix
Location: Between Small Intestine and Large Intestine.
Indications: Simple appendicitis, diarrhea.
10. Locations _and Indications of Points on the Earlobe (Figure
3-12)
Eye 1
Alternative name: Glaucoma Point.
Location: On the frontal surface of the earlobe, anterioinferior
to the notch between the tragus and the antitragus.

41
 Indications: Psuedomyopia.
Eye 2
Alternative name: Astigmia Point.
Location: On the frontal surface of the earlobe,
posterioinferior to the notch between the tragus and the
antitragus.
Indications: Psue.domyopia.

Anterior Lobe

Figure 3-12 Distribution of auricular points on the earlobe

Teeth
Alternative names f· Anesthesia Point:<£of Dental Extraction,
Toothache Point, Blood Pressure Raising Point.
Location: A grid of nine equal sections is delineated on the
frontal surface of the earlobe by drawing three equidistant
horizontal lines below the lower border of the cartilege of the
notch between the tragus and the antitragus, and two
equidistant vertical lines. The sections are numbered from
anterior to posterior and from top to bottom. Teeth is located
on the first section of the earlobe grid.
Indications: Toothache_, periodontitis, hypotension.

42
Tongue
Alternative names: Palate, Lower Palate.'
Location: On the second section of the earlobe grid.
Indications: Glossitis, stomatitis.
Jaw
Alternative names: Upper Jaw, Mandible.
Location: On the third section of the earlobe- grid.
Indications: Toothache, dysfunction of the temperomandibular
joint.
Anterior Lobe
Alternative names: Anesthesia Point for Dental Extraction,
Neurosism Point. c.

Location: On the fourth section of the earlobe grid.

Indications: Neurosism, toothache.
Eye
Location: On tihe fifth section of the earlobe grid.
Indications: Acute conjunctivitis, electric opthalmitis, stye,
psuedomyopia.
Internal Ear
Location: On the sixth section of the earlobe grid.
Indications: Meniere's disease, tinnitus, hearing loss.
Cheek
Location: On the border between the fifth and sixth section of
the earlobe grid.
Indications: Peripheral facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia,
acne, flat wart.
Tonsil
Alternative name: Tonsil 4.
Location: On the eighth section of the earlobe grid.

43
 Indications: Tonsilitis, pharyngitis.
11. Locations and Indications of Points on the Dorsal Surface of the
Auricle (Figure 3-13)

Liver of Dorsal Surface·--+-

Root of Ear Vagus
Spleen of Dorsal Surface---+-_,+
--1---Lung of Dorsal Surface

Lower Ear Root

Figure 3-13 Distribution of auricular points on the dorsal surface of the auricle
Upper Ear Root
Alternative names: Spinal Cord 1, Stagnation in the Interior.
Location: On the upper portion of the ear root.
Indications: Epistaxis.
Supplementary: Electrical resistance of this point is taken as
the basic electrical resistance.
Root of Ear Vagus
Location: On the juncture of the dorsal surface of the auricle
and the mastoid process, corresponding to the crus of the
helix.
Indications: Cholecystitis, gallstones, biliary ascariasis, nasal
obstruction, tachycardia~ abdominal pain, diarrhea.
Lower Ear Root
Location: On the lower portion of the ear root.

44
 Indications 1 Hypotension.
Groove of Dorsal Surface
Alternative name 1 Blood Pressure Lowering Point.
Location: The groove formed by the antihelix and its two
branches on the dorsal surface of the auricle.
Indications: Hypotension, cutaneous pruritis.
Supplementary 1 Blood-letting puncturing with a three-edged
needle is always used on this point. · It is frequently replaced
with Apex of the Ear.
Heart of Dorsal Surface
Location: On the upper portion of the dorsal surface of the
auricle.
Indications: Palpipation, insomnia, nightmares.
Spleen of Dorsal Surface
Location: On the dorsal surface of the auricle close to tee
terminus of the crus of the helix.
Indications: Gastric pain, indigestion, poor appetite.
Liver of Dorsal Surface
Location: On the dorsal surface of the auricle lateral to Spleen
of Dorsal Surface.
Indications: Cholecystitis, gallstones, hypochondriac pain.
Lung of Dorsal Surface
Location: On the dorsal surface of the auricle medial to Spleen
of Dorsal Surface.
Indications: Cough, asthma, cutaneous pruritus.
Kidney of Dorsal Surface
Location: On the lower portion of the dorsal surface of the
auricle.
Indications: Dizziness, headache, neurosism.

45

l
 Supplementary: The distribution of points and areas on both
dorsal and frontal surfaces of the auricle are identical, so main
points and areas are often taped on both surfaces
simultaneously in order to increase stimulation. For example,
Knee on both frontal and dorsal surfaces is taped to treat pain
of the knee joint; Anterior Lobe on both frontal and dorsal
surfaces is taped to treat neurosism. This method of
increasing stimulation is especially effective for relieving pain
in various parts of the body.

46
 CHAPTER FOUR
AURICULAR DIAGNOSTIC METHODS

Auricular diagnosis is an important aspect of auricular

therapy. When disease or disorder is present in the Zangfu organs
or tissues of the body, positive signs may occur on the
corresponding areas of the auricle. For example, discoloration,
deformities, desquamation, pimples, angioparesis, tenderness, or
lowered auricular electrical resistance may be seen. These positive
signs can be used not only for diagnosing the position, nature, and
clinical development of the problem, but also to provide reliable
evidence for determining the selection of auricular points to be used
in its treatment.

I Auricular Inspection
Auricular inspection consists of carefully che<;king for
discoloration, deformities, desquamation, or pimples on the auricle
in order to diagnose disease or disorders. It can be used to diagnose
both acute and chronic diseases, as well as the acute onset of
chronic diseases.
Method
1: In adequate light, carefully examine the auricle from top to
bottom and inside to outside.
I 2. When a positive sign is found, use the fingers to first
stretch and then slowly loosen the dorsal surface of the auricle.

l 47
Repeat the manipulation several times in order to distinguish the
size, shape, and color of the positive sign.
3. When an eminence is found, determine its stze, shape,
hardness, mobility, and whether there is tenderness when it is
palpated with the fingers or a probe.
4. Compare the positive signs on the bilateral auriculae in
order to determine the exact position of the disease or disorder , and
to confirm whether the signs are genuine or not.
5. When examining the triangular fossa and the superior and
inferior concha, a detection probe should be used to open and
completely expose these areas.
Positive Signs and Their Clinical Significance
1. Discoloration
Red: including bright, light, and dark red. The discolored area
may be spotty, patchy, or irregular. Bright red indicates acute
disease or pain; light and dark red indicate chronic disease or
recovery from severe disease. For example, cases of chronic
lumbagq may show patchy dark red or light red signs on Kidney
and Lumbosacral Vertabrae.
White: may be spotty, patchy, or spotty white in the center
with reddish border. White usually indicates chronic or deficient
diseases or disorders. For example, cases of chronic bronchitis or
asthma may show spotty white eminences on Lung and Trachea;
cases of rheumatic cardiac disease may show white patches with
reddish border on Heart.
Dark brown: resembling freckles. This usually indicates
chronic diseases, especially refractory or proliferative. problems.
For instance, cases of prolapse of the lumbar intervertebral disc
may show, dark brown streaky pigmentation on Lumbosacral

48
Vertebrae.
,
2. Deformities
Eminence: including nodular eminences the size of a grain of
wheat or mung bean, and streaky or patchy eminences. Nodular
emmences usually indicate headache, proliferative or chronic
problems. Streaky emmences usually indicate proliferative or
organic diseases, for instance, cases of gastric ulcer may show
streaky eminences on Stomach. Patchy eminences indicate acute
problems, for instance, cases of neurosism may show patchy
eminence on Anterior Lobe or Occiput, and cases of acute tonsilitis
may show patchy eminence on Tonsil.
Pitting or depression: may be spotty, patchy, or thread-like.
Spotty pitting usually indicates tinnitus or astigmia; patchy pitting
indicates chronic or organic problems such as gastroduedenal ulcer;
thread-like pitting indicates tinnitus or coronary heart disease.
Pimples: whitish spotty pimples indicate chronic inflammatory
conditions such as chronic bronchitis, chronic diarrhea, pel vi tis,
annexitis or cholecystitis. Patchy dark brown pimples usually
indicate skin diseases such as neurodermatitis or contact
dermatitis.
3. Desquamation
Patchy desquamation usually indicates chronic inflammatory
conditions or skin diseases. For example, desquammation on Wind
Stream, Lung, or the entire auricle indicates, skin :diseases such as
seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis; desquamation on L~ng indicates
. chronic bronchitis; desquamation on the triangular fossa indicates
chronic genital or gynecological problems.
P.oints to Remember
1. Take into account differences in sex, age, constitution, and

49
season; distinguish pre-existing nonpathalogical deformities of the
auricle from genuine positive signs.
2. Light should be adequate; natural light is best.
3. Do not massage or wash the auricle prior to inspection; this
may affect the results.
4. Distinguish genuine and false positive signs. For example,
when a detection probe is used to press an eminence., discolored
area, or pimple, genuine positive signs will show soreness,
distension or even stabbing pain, while false positive signs will
show no reaction.

n Auricular Palpation
Auricular palpation consists of palpating auricular positive
signs such as discolored areas, eminences, pimples, or tender spots
with a .detection probe ( any instrument with a blunt point
approximately the size of a matchhead) in order to diagnose disease
or disorder of the corresponding body parts.
Method
Holding the auricle in one hand, with the other palpate
auricular points with a detection probe in order to detect positive
signs such as tenderness, discoloration or deformities (eminences,
pitting or pimples).
Positive Signs and Their Clinical Significance
1. Tenderness
Tenderness is a commonly seen pos1t1ve sign m auricular
diagnosis. It is classified into three grades: mild tenderness, with
no other pain reactions; moderate tenderness, accompanied by
frowning and blinking; severe tenderness or stabbing pain,
accompanied by flinching.

50
 Obvious auricular tenderness is usually present in cases of
acute disease, pain, or tumors, so auricular palpation is suitable for
the diagnosis of these conditions.
2. Eminence, including spotty, patchy, or streaky scleroma,
or proliferation of the auricular cartilage
Scleroma usually· indicates chronic, organic, or proliferative
conditions, For example, cases of chronic cholecystitis may show
patchy scleroma on Pancreas & Gallbladder; cases of cervical
spondylopathy may show proliferation of cartilage on Cervical
Vertebrae.
3. Indentation when palpated
Carefully observe depth, color, and recovery time of the
indentation after palpation. Generally speaking, deep whitish
indentations with a long recovery time indicate deficient syndromes
such as edema and asthma; superficial reddish indentations with a
short recovery time indicate excessive syndromes such as acute
tonsilitis and gastritis.
Points to Remember
1. Palpate all points with even pressure and for the same
length of time in order to avoid false positive or negative signs.
2. Compare tender points with adjacent points several times.
3. Carefully observe patients' reactions during palpation;
inquire whether there are other sensations present such as
soreness, distension, radiating pain, etc.
4. There may be several tender points on one auricle, but the
most severe tenderness usually occurs on the area which
corresponds to the major problem area of the body.
5. Positive signs usually indicate homolateral diseases or
disorders, so it is important to compare bilateral auriculae in order

51
to correctly diagnose the location of the problem.
6. Take into account differences in age, sex and constitution.
According to clinical experience , the pain threshold of women and
children is usually relatively lower than that of men and the
elderly; pressure use(!_ when palpating should be adjusted
accordingly. Some people have a very high pain threshold, so it is
almost impossible to locate tender points even when they have very
severe problems; on the other hand, others have such a low pain
threshold that many tender points may exist on their auriculae even
though they have no problems at all.

lii Measurement of Auricular

Elect:t:ical Resistance
This diagnostic method uses an electrical detector to measure
auricular electrical resistance. When disease or disorder is present
in the body, there may be an obvious decrease in electrical
resistance in the corresponding auricular points. This phenomenon
allows measurement of. auricular electrical resistance to be an
effective tool in establishing a diagnosis.
Method
Each individual's basic electrical resistance is different, so a
basic standard should be established in each case before
proceeding. It has been found that the electrical resistance of the
upper root of the auricle can be taken as the basic electrical
resistance. It is found by placing one electrode of the detector on
the upper root of the auricle and regulating the potentiometer until
a faint so,und is heard. The resulting measurement is used as the
standard when measuring other auricular points, Areas where the
electrical resistance is lower than standard are referred to as
I

52
· positive, or highly conductive, electrical resistance points.
Positive Electrical Resistance Points and Their Clinical
Significance
Positive electrical resistance points are classified into two
grades according to their degree of electrical resistance. The
electrical resistance of intensely positive points is the lowest,
usually accompanied by stabbing pain on the points during
measurement; the electrical resistance of pos1t1ve points is
somewhat lower than standard,sometimes acoompanied by stabbing
pain on the points during measuerment.
Intensely positive points usually correspond to the primary
affected area of the body. Cases of acute disease usually show an
obvious decrease of auricular electrical resistance; cases of chronic
disease often do not. Therefore, measurement of auricular electrical
resistance can be helpful in distinguishing the course and stage of
the problem.
Points to Remember
Auricular electrical resistance 1s affected by many factors,
including constitution, season, dampness of ·the skin, and
manipulation. So measures should be taken to a"~Wid influencing the
results with extraneous factors.
1. Do not wash or rub the auriculae prior to measurement in
order to avoid false positive points caused by increased conduction
due to congestion of blood. If the ·auriculae must be washed
because they are seborrheic,. there should be; a ten minute interval
before beginning measurement.
2. During the winter, a short interval should be allowed before
beginning measurement after coming in from outdoors, since
auricular vessels contract and electrical resistance increases in the

53
presence of cold, causing possible false negative results.
3. Electrical resistance may vary among different areas of the
auricle. For instance, the triangular fossa, the superior and inferior
concha, and the scapha all show relatively lower electrical
resistance. Therefore, light pressure should be used, and points of
lower electrical resistance found when measuring these areas should
be compared with other areas. The results of inspection and
palpation should also be considered in order to assist in
distinguishing genuine from false positive signs.
4. Electrical resistance on the auricle corresponding to the
affected side will be much lower than that on the healthy side, so a
comparison of bllateral electrical resistance should be made to
establish location of the problem.
5. Individual differences should be taken into account. Some
people's electrical resistance is relatively high, making it difficult to
detect positive points with this method; on the other hand, that of
others may be very low, resulting in easily occuring false p()sitive
points.
In clinical practice, the three methods of auricular diagnosis -
inspection, palpation, and measurement of electrical resistance -
as well as modern diagnostic methods and the differentiation of
signs and symptoms, are t~sed in combination to establish an
accurate diagnosis and provide reliable evidence for determining the
selection of auricular points t9 be treated.

54
 CHAPTER FIVE
COMMONLY USED AURICULAR
THERAPEUTIC METHODS

With the development of modern techniques, various new

methods such as the use of electricity and lasers have been
developed to stimulate the auricle. However, only four traditional
methods noted for their safety, effectiveness~ simplicity and
convenience are introduced here.

I Auricular Taping
Auricular taping consists of taping small, round, hard, smooth
. .
objects such as mustard seeds or small beans, pills, or ball bearings
to particular auricular points. The taped objects are then pressed in
order to stimulate the points and attain therapeutic results. This
method has been widely used in recent years because of its safety,
effectiveness, wide range of applications, · and lack of
con traindica tions.
Procedure
1. Choose small, round, hard, smooth objects of the appropriate
size for stimulating the auricular points. The objects chosen should
have no toxic properties or side-effects. Seeds of vaccaria segetalis
(mustard)or semen impatientis,mung beans,Liushen pills,or small
ball bearings are all suitable for use in auricular taping.

55
 2. Prepare sufficient adhesive tape, cut into pieces Q. 5· em
square.
3. Sterilize the auricle with tincture of iodine or alcohol.
4. Holding the auricle with one hand, with the other hand use
a detection probe (any instrument with a blunt point the size of a
matchhead) to press the auricular points hard enough to leave
depressions. Tape the. seeds, etc. to the positive points and press
for several minutes until a needling sensation of heat, pain'or
radiating distension is achieved.
5. Tape the points in the order of upper to lower and frontal to
dorsaL; mainly tape the affected side. Bilateral auriculae may be
taped si~:rmltaneously or during alternate treatment sessions.
6. The distribution of points on the frontal and dorsal surfaces
of the auricle is identical. Therefore, the main auricular points may
be taped on· both sides simultaneously . in order to increase
sf~mu\ation and effectiveness. This method is especially suitable for
p~in such as headache, backache, and sore joints.
7. Leave the tape and seeds, etc. on the auricle for three to
seven days. Each point should be pressed for three to five. minutes,
two to three times each day, until a needling sensation of heat,
pain, or radiating distension is achieved.
8. Remove the tape a:nd seeds, etc. the ~vening before the next
treatment and clean the auricle with soap and warm water.
Indications
Because auricular taping is safe, effective, and easily accepted,
it is widely used in clinical practice for the treatment of pain,
inflamm~tion, endocrine disturbance, functional disorders, motion
sickness, and allergic reactions. It is especially suitable for thildren,
the elderly, and people with weak constitutions ~r drug allergies.

56~
 Normal Reactions to Auricular Taping Therapy
Reactions to auricular taping therapy are varied owing to
differences · in constitution, age, and sex. The most common
reactions include localized sensations of pain, heat, numbness, and
distension. Radiating pain may occur in some cases. Some people
may e~perience reflex muscle reactions or a sensation of flowing
heat and comfort in the corresponding body area. Many people feel
vigorous, h-ave a good appetite, and sleep well after taping. All of
these reactions indicate that the therapeutic method and the points
chosen were correct, and that the prognosis is favorable .. ·
Abnormal Phenomena in Auricular Taping, Their Prevention
and Management'
As in acupuncture, abnormal phenomena may also occur during
or after auricular taping. They include the following types.
1. Fainting
Various degrees. of fainting may occur due to nervousness,
hunger, weak constitution due to long-standing illness, overstrain,
or use of inappropriate points or stimulation:
Mild fainting, manifesting as dizziness, a sensation of fullness
and discomfort in the chest, and nausea.
Moderate fainting; manifesting as palpitation, vertigo, nausea .
and vomiting_, pale complexion' perspiration' coldness of the limbs'
and thready ,and rapid pulse.
Severe fainting, manifesting as coldness of the entire body,
profuse swe,ating 'low biood pressure' very weak and thready pulse'
and even loss of consciousness.
Mild and moderate fainting is common ·but severe fainting is
quite rare in auricular tap~g. The fainting may occur either during
or after taping. In mild (;ases, the patient should lie down in a

57
horizontal position, drink some hot water or hot sugar water, and
relax. The treatment may be continued when the patient recovers.
In moderate and severe cases, the tape should first be removed. Put
the patient in Trendelenburg's position and loosen the collar and
belt, being careful to keep the patient warm, especially in winter.
Puncture Subcortex and Adrenal Gland auricular points. Additional
emergency treatment ~hould be instituted if necessary.
Prevention of abnormal phenomena is very important, and
preventative measures should be taken according to specific
conditions. Auricular taping therapy differs ·from acupuncture in
that fainting caused by overstrain, hunger, or weak constitution due
to long-standing illness is much more common than that caused by
nervousness. Therefore, care should be taken with those who may
. '
have these predisposing conditions. In these cases, a p~iod .of rest
in the clinic before and after taping is necessary, fewer· points are
selected, a horizontal position is adopted during taping, and
moderate manipulation is given. Additionally, these patients should
be informed of the possibility of fainting and how to manage it, i. e.
immediately lie down in a horizontal position and drink some hot
water: or hot sugar water, and call for emergency assistance if
necessary. Generally speaking, moderate and severe fainting always
occur during taping, while mild fainting may occur well after
'
taping. Mild fainting is usually induced by obvious factors or
predisposing con,ditions such as hunger, overstrain, or severe ,
. motion: Therefore, adequate rest after taping is essential.

.-~~ 2. Infection of the auricle

The main causes· of auricular infection following auricular
taping are allergic reactions to the adhesive tape or incomplete
sterilization. In !pild cases, there may be itching an& pain in the

58
taped areas, sometimes accompanied by a reddish rash or pimples.
In severe cases, there may be swelling and redness of the auricie,
ulcerative infection of the taped areas, or even necrosis and atrophy
of the auricular cartilage resulting in deformity of the auricle.
Because of the relatively poor blood circulation in the
auriculae, auricular infections are difficult to cure. Therefore,
prevention is very important. Hypoallergenic tape should be used
when treating people with adhesive allergies. Since infection may
still occur in these cases relatively easily, alternative auricular
therapies such as auricular blood-letting, pressure, or massage
should be considered.
Precautions
1. A void exposure of the adhesive tape to moisture. In order to
achieve a strong bond with the skin of the ear, apply the tape only
after the alcohol used to sterilize the auricle has completely
volatilized.
2. Use hypoallergenic: adhesive tape for people with adhesive
allergies. At the time of treatment, also tape Adrenal Gland and
Wind Stream, and puncture Apex of the Ear with a tnree:..edged
needle to cause bleeding. Alternatively, use other methods such as
auricular blood-letting, pressure, or massage.
3. Auricular taping is contraindicated ~n cases of inflamed or
frostbitten auriculae.
4. If sleep is affected because bilateral auriculae have been
taped simultaneously, tape each side alternately.
5. Auricular taping is contraindicated for people with .severe
cardiac disease.
6. Mild manipulation should be adopted for pregnant women;
do not tape points which may cause the uterus to contract.

59
Auricular taping 1s contraindicated for pregnant women with a
history of repeated miscarriage. ,
7. Because of increased perspiration m summer, tape for a
shorter period (three days). In winter, pay attention to keeping the
auriculae warm.
8. In order to prevent injury to the auricle, do not rub in a
sideways or circular motion while pressing the taped auricular
points.

li Auricular Blood-Letting Puncturing

Auricular blood-letting puncturing consists of the use of a
three-edged needle, plum blossom needle, or ensiform needle to
draw blood from specific auricular points, areas, or collaterals for
therapeutic effect. Blood-letting puncturing of auricular points,
especially Apex of the Ear and Helix 1 to Helix 6, can stimulate
blood circulation of the auriculae, thus improving the metabolism of
the entire body. In addition to excessive or heat syndromes,
auricular blood-letting puncturing is also useful in some deficient
syndromes such as insomnia or dizziness.
Procedure
1. Massage the auricle to cause congestion of blood.
2. Strictly sterilize the needles and the area to be pun~tured.

3. Holding the auricle with one hand, use the other hand to
either puncture the chosen points 2 mm deep with a three-edged
needle, heavily tap the chosen areas with a plum blossom needle, or
incise the chosen coliaterals on the dorsal surface with an ensiform
needle.
4. Pinch the auricle to express five to eight drops of blood;
absorb the blood with sterilized dry cotton.

60
 5. Puncture bilateral sides alternately for general cases, or
simultaneously for acute cases.
6. Treat twice a week for general cases ,or once every other day
for acute cases.
Commonly Used Points and their Indications
1. Apex of Ear
Blood-letting puncturing of Apex of Ear with a three-edged
needle is us~ful for relieving heat, eliminating wind, relieving pain,
tranquilizing the mind, brightening the eyes, and benefiting the
ears. It is widely used in clinical practice for treating fever,
inflammatory infections, neuroses, hypertension, skin diseases,
allergic reactions, pain, optic problems, tinnitus, and deafness. It
is the most ideal point for blood-letting because the blood vessels
here are plentiful and the manipulation easily mastered.
2. Liver-Yang
Blood-letting puncturing of Liver-Yang with a three-edged
needle can calm the liver to arrest endogenous wind, so it is useful
in the treatment of headache, vertigo, and tinnitus caused by
hyperactivity of the liver-yang.
3. Apex of Tragus
Blood-letting puncturing of Apex of Tragus with _a three-edged
need!~· relieves heat and pain and has a tranquilizing effect; so it is
used in the treatment of fever, inflammatory infections, and
neuroses.
·4. Groove of Dorsal Surface
Tapping Groove of Dorsal Surface with a plum blossom needle
to cause bleeding can lower the blood pr.essure, so it is useful ii). the
treatment of dizziness, vertigo, head~che·, blurred vision, and
tinnitus caused by hypertension.

61
 5. Collaterals on the Dorsal Surface
Incising the collaterals with an ensiform needle to draw blood
eliminates wind and relieves heat, so it is used for treatmg cases of
skin diseases and inflammatory infection.
6. Helix 1 to Helix 6
Blood-letting puncturing of Helix 1 to Helix 6 with a three-
edged needle relieves. heat, so it is used in the treatment of
inflammatory infections such as tonsilitis, conjunctivitis,
laryngopharyngitis, and mumps.
7. Other Points
Blood-letting puncturing can be used on all the auricular points
to treat excessive heat syndromes. Needles are chosen according to
the position of the points to be treated. For e~ample, Cheek is
tapped with a plum blossom needle for acne, flat wart, chloasma,
or cosmetic purposes; Lung is punctured with a three-edged needle
for skin diseases.
Prec.autions
· 1. Massage the auricle before puncturing to dilate the blood
vessels and make blood-letting easier.
2. Strictly sterilize the needles and the areas to be punctured in
order to avoid infection of the auricle.
3. In order to avoid damage to the auricular cartilage, be careful
not to puncture to~.·deeply with the three-edged needle. (2 mm is
sufficient. )
4. Sufficient blood should be expressed, usually five to eight
drops.· For severe. excessive or heat syndromes·, slightly more blood
should be let. It is very easy to cause bleeding in patients with heat
syndrome becaus.e t~e flow of blood is quite rapid. If the blood
spurts like a foul}tain, the prognosis is yery good.

62
 5. If it is necessary to draw blood repeatedly on the collaterals
of the auricular dorsal surface, puncture the distal end first.
6. Auricular blood-letting puncturing is contraindicated in
cases of immunological insufficiency, or hemorrhagic diseases such
as hemophilia, primary thrombocylopenic p).lrpura, or aplastic
anemia.

m Auricular Pressure
Auricular pressure uses pressure on selected auricular points
with a detection probe(any instrument with a blunt point the size of
a matchhead) to achieve therapeutic results. It has been found in
clinical practice that there is immediate improvement in symptoms
in some cases when tender points on the auricle are located and
pressed with the detection probe during the diagnostic process. For
instance, pain, nausea, and. vomiting may be reli~ved or stopped as
soon as the associated points are pressed. This method can activate
meridians and collaterals, regulate the qi and blood, and calm the
mind, so it is suitable for treating pain, chronic illnesses, injury of
the soft tissues, and neurosism.
Procedure
I. Press each point for two to three minutes until a needling
sensation of heat, pain, or radiating distension is achieved. The
pressure may vary from light to heavy. Patients can practice this
method themselves at home, pressing the indicated points two to
three times each day.
2. Pressing with sharply pointed instruments should be avoided ·
in order to prevent injury to the auricle.

63
 lV Auricular Massage
Auricular massage uses massage of the auricle with the hands
to achieve therapeutic effects. Long-term massage of the auriculae
can activate the meridians and collaterals, regulate the qi and
blood, restore the functions of the Zangfu organs, nourish the
brain, brighten the eyes, and benefit the ears. It can be used for
treating problems such as neurosism, headache, dizziness, blurred
vision, or tinnitus, as well as for raising the intelligence and
improving general fitness. It was recorded in The Effective
Prescriptions of Sushen, Song dynasty ( 907-1279 A. D. ) , that
massage of the ears can strengthen antipathogenic qi. There are also
records of early Taoists using this method for health preservation
and longevity.
Procedure
1. Rub the palms together until they are warm, then massage
both the frontal and dorsal auricular surfaces between them.
2. With a loose fist, massage both the frontal and dorsal
auricular surfaces from top to bottom, with the thumb on the dorsal
surface and the index finger on the frontal surface. The index-finger
should massage the auricular art'<t~ in the following order: helix,
scapha, triangular fossa, antihelix. superior concha, inferior concha,
peripheral crus of the helix, medial side of the anti tragus, medial
side of the tragus, lobe. The index finger should remain longer on
points and areas specific to the patient's coi).dition.
3. The procedure should be repeated several times until the.
' .
auriculae are hot. The results will be greatly improved if the
patient's mind is focused and attention concentrated during the
massage.

64
 CHAPTER SIX
PRINCIPLES FOR THE SELECTION
.OF AURICULAR POINTS

The selection of auricular points to be treated directly affects

the results of auricular therapy. The following rules will be
beneficial for correctly choosing auricular points and areas.

I Choose Points According to the Location

of the Diseased or Affected Area of the Body
'
Choosing auricular points which correspond to the location of
the diseased or affected part of the body is of basic importance in
auricular therapy. Every currently used treatment adheres to this
principle. For example, Forehead is the major point used for
treating frontal headache, Eye is used for all eye diseases and Large
Intestine for all problems of the large intestine.
Two aspects should be emphasized when applying ·this rule to
'
the choice of points.
First, every part of an organ or tissue has a corresponding
point on the organ or tissue's corresponding auricular area. The
distribution of these corresponding auricular points, like that of the
auricular areas, is upside down in relation to the body. For
instance, the area of Stomach adjoining the crus of the helix
represents the lesser curvature of the stomach, and the area of

65
 Stomach adjoining Duodenum represents the pylorus; the area of
Abdomen adjoining the beginning of the branches of the antihelix
represents the lower abdomen, the middle part of Abdomen
represents the middle abdomen, and the area of Abdomen adjoining
Chest represents the upper abdomen. Accordingly, the auricular
point corresponding to the lesser curvature of the stomach is chosen
• for treating gastric ulcer of the lesser curvature of the stomach, and
the point corresponding to the pylorus is chosen for treating gastric
ulcer of the pylorus; the point corresponding to the lower abdomen
is chosen for treating pain in the lower abdomen, and the point
corresponding to the middle abdomen is used for treating pain in
the middle abdomen, etc.
Generally speaking, the most sensitive point on an auricular
area usually indicates the precise location of the problem in the
corresponding organ or ·tissue. Consequently, the use of auricular
diagnostic methods to locate positive signs, especially tenderness,
on the auricle can determine the specific location of a disease or
disorder of the body, and provide a basis for good therapeutic
results.
Secondly, in addition to the auricular points described in the
International Standard of Aur~cular Points, there ar~ also points
and areas on the auricle corresponding to other tissues of the body.
For example, the auricular area corresponding to the lumbar
muscles is found between Lumbosacral Vertebrae and the scaphoid
fossa, and the area corresponding to the forearm is found between
Elbow and, Wrist. These auricular areas can be used to treat
problems of their corresponding tissues, such as lumbago and pain
in the forearm.·

66
 H Choose Points According to the Principles
of Traditional Chinese Medicine
The eleven auricular areas corresponding to the five Zang and
srx Fu organs are especially significant in traditional Chinese
medicine. These auricular areas are used extensively in clinical
practice, not only to treat disorders of their corresponding Zangfu
organs but also to treat the tissues with which the Zangfu organs
connect. The physiology of the Zangfu organs and indications of
their corresponding auricular areas are described here at.length for
the benefit of beginners and those in independent study.
Heart
The heart governs the blood and blood vessels, so treating
Heart can improve blood circulation. It is used to treat coronary
heart disease, arrhythmia, hypertension, angitis, and Raynard's
disease.
The mind resides in the heart, so treating Heart can calm the
mind. It is used to treat neurosism, hysteria, and func~ional

disturbance of the autonomic nervous system.

The fluid of the heart is perspiration, so treating Heart can
regulate secretion of perspiration. It is used to treat hyperhydrosis
and spontaneous or night sweatiqg.
The heart opens into the tongue, so Heart can be used to treat
hoarseness, recurrent ulcer of the i:nouth, and glossitis.
The heart nourishes the face, so Heart can be used to treat
pale complexion caused by defic;iency of qi and blood, or purple
complexion caused by blockage .o( stagnant blood in the heart.
The heart meridian distributes to the prothorax and the lower
border of th~ medial side of the upper limbs , so Heart can be used

67
to treat pain in these regions.
Liver
The liver governs the flow of qi in the body, so Liver can be
used to treat various conditions caused by stagnation of the liver-
qi, including nervous disorders such as neurosism and hysteria,
gynecological problems such as irregular menstruation,
dysmenorrhea, and hyperplasia of the mammary glands, and
digestive disorders such as indigestion, abdominal distension, and
diarrhea.
The liver stores 'blood, so treating Liver can tonify the blood.
It is used to treat anemia and hematochezia.
The fluid of the liver is tea~s, so treating Liver can regulate
the secretion of tears. It is used to treat epiphora induced by wind,
and dryness of the eyes.
The liver opens into the eyes, so Liver can be used to treat eye
problems such as glaucoma, pseudomyopia, conjunctivitis, and
electric opthalmitis.
The liver nourishes the tendons, so Liver can· be used to treat
tendon problems such as facial spasm and epileptic spasm.
The liver is connected internally and externally with the
gallbladder, so Liver can be used to treat gallbladder problems
such as cholecystitis, gallstones, and biliary ascariasis.
The liver meridian distributes to the external genitals, bilateral
lower abdomen, hypochondriac region, chest, and top of the head,
so Liver can be used to treat diseases and disorders of these regions
of the boqy.
Spleen
The spleen dominates transportation and transformation of
water and food, so treating Spleen can remove dampness and

68
strengthen the digestive function. It is .,used to treat diarrhea,
abdominal distension or pain, indigestion, childhood anorexia,
edema, and to stimulate weight loss.
The spleen governs the blood in the meridians , so Spleen can
be used to treat hemorrhagic problems such as dysfunctional
uterine bleeding, hypermenorrhea, thrombocytoperiac purpura, and
hemorrhage of the internal organs.
The spleen lifts clear-qi, so Spleen can be used to treat
diseases caused by sinking of the qi in the Middle Jiao such as
gastroptosis and prolapse of the anus or uterus.
The fluid of the spleen is saliva, so Spleen can be used to
regulate the secretion of saliva. It is used to treat ptyalism and dry
mouth caused by deficiency of the spleen-qi.
The spleen opens into the mouth, so Spleen can be used to
treat recurrent ulcer of the mouth, glossitis, and dryness of the
lips.
The spleen nourishes the muscles and limbs, so Spleen is used
to treat muscular atrophy, and weakness and soreness of the
limbs.
The spleen is connected internally and externally with the
stomach, so Spleen can be used to, treat gastric problems such as
stomachache, epigastric distension; and regurgitation.
The spleen meridian distributes to the anterior border of the
medial side of the lower limbs, so Spleen can be used to treat pain
in these regions.
Lung
The lungs govern the breath, so treating Lung can regulate
breathing. It is used to treat respiratory problems such as cough,
asthma, feeling of fullness in the chest, and the common cold.

69
 The lungs regulate drainage of water, so Lung can be used to
treat dysfunctions of water metabolism such as edema and retention
of urine~
The lungs nourish the skin and control the opening and closing
of the pores, so Lung can be used to treat skin diseases and
spontaneous night sweating.
The lungs open into the nose, so Lung can be used to treat
rhinitis.
The lungs are connected internally and externally with the
large intestine, so Lung can be used to trea~ constipation, diarrhea,
and dysentary.
The lung meridian distributes to the prothorax, throat, and
upper border of the medial side of the upper limbs, so Lung can be
used to treat diseases and disorders of these regions.
Kidney
The kidneys store essence, so treating Kidney can tonify the
essence. It is used to treat various chronic deficiency diseases such
as pre-dawn diarrhea, asthma, chronic bronchitis, and lumbago.
The kidneys govern reproduction, so Kidney can be used to
treat seminal emission, impotence, premature ejaculation, irregular
menstruation' habitual miscarriage' and infertility.
The kidneys regulate water metabolism, so Kidney can be
used to treat edema, retention of urine, and ascites, and to stimulate
weight loss.
The kidneys nourish the bones and produce bone marrow, so
Kidney can be used to treat degenerative conditions of the bones
such as cervical spondylopathy, as well as mental problems such as
mental retardation, senile dementia, neurosism, and functional
· disturbance of the autonomic nervous system.

70
 The kidneys open into the ears, the anterior external genitals,
and the anus, so Kidney can be used to treat tinnitus, hearing loss,
and Meniere's disease, as well as disorders of the external genitals
and anus.
The kidneys are connected internally and externally with the
urinary bladder, so Kidney is usually combined with Urinary
Bladder to treat urinary problems such as urinary tract infection,
urinary stones, and retention or incontinence of urine.
The kidney meridian distributes to the posterior border of the
medial side of the lower limbs, chest, and throat, .so Kidney can be
used to treat chronic pharyngitis and pain in the chest or medial
side of the lower limbs.
Gallbladder
The gallbladder stores bile to enable the spleen and stomach to
carry out digestion, so Gallbladder can be used to treat biliary tract
infection, obstruction of the biliary ducts, cholecystitis, gallstones,
biliary ascariasis, indigestion, abdominal distension, and vomiting.
The gallbladder governs the power of decision, so Gallbladder
can be used to treat hesitation and timidity, insomnia, and
nightmares.
The gallbladder meridian distributes to the temporal side of
the head, the ears, hypochondriac region, and lateral side of the
lower limbs, so Gallbladder can be used to treat migraine, otitis
media, pain in the hypochondriac region, and sciatica.
Stomach
The stomach receives and digests water and food, so St0mach
can be used io treat ~astritis, gastric ulcer, gastric spasm,
gastrointestinal dysfunction, indigestion, and childhood anorexia.
The stomach can pull down rebellious qi, so Stomach can be

71
used to treat ·nausea, vomiting, hiccups, belching, and acid
regurgitation.
The stomach meridian distributes to the face, forehead, teeth,
throat, breasts, and anteriolateral aspect of the lower limbs, so
Stomach can be used to treat facial spasm, frontal headache,
toothache, sore throat, mastitis, and pain in the lower limbs.
Small Intestine
The small intestine governs digestion and absorption, so Small
Intestine can be used to treat indigestion, abdominal distension, and
childhood anorexia.
The small intestine is connected internally and externally with
the heart, so Small Intestine can be used to treat diseases caused by
flaring-up of the heart-fire such as ulcerative stomatitis, glossitis,
and various mental disorders.
The small intestine meridian distributes to the posterioexternal
aspect of the up 'per limbs, the scapular region, and the back of the
neck, so Small Intestine can be used to treat pain in these regions,
stiff neck, and scapulohumeral periarthritis.
Large Intestine
The large intestine governs transportation, so Large Intestine
can be used to treat constipation, diarrhea, abdominal distension,
and dysentary.
The 1arge intestine is connected internally and externally with
the lungs, so treating Large Intestine can help the lungs to pull
down rebellious qi. It is used to treat bronchitis, asthma, skin
· diseases, and nasal problems.
The large intestine meridian distributes to the anterioexternal
aspect of the upper limbs, shoulders, teeth, and nose, so Large
Intestine can be used to treat pain in the anterioexternal region of

72
the upper limbs, scapulohumeral pe}jarthritis, toothache, and nasal
problems.
Urinary Bladder
The urinary bladder stores and excretes urme, so treating
Urinary Bladder can promote urination and eliminate dampness .. It
is used to treat urinary tract infection, retention of urine, and
urinary stones.
The urinary bladder is connected internally and externally with
the kidneys, so Urinary Bladder can be used to treat nocturnal
eneuresis and urinary incontinence caused by deficiency of the
kidney-qi.
The urinary bladder meridian distributes to the occiput, back
of the neck, back, lumbus, anus, and back of the lower limbs, so
Urinary Bladder can be used to treat pain in the occipital region,
stiff neck, backache, lumbago, hemorrhoids, and sciatica.
San ]iao
The Upper ]iao resembles a sprayer, sending water and essence
produced by the Middle ]iao throughout the entire body, so San Jiao
can be used to treat feelings of fullness and pain in the chest,
cough' and asthma.
The Middle ]iao resembles a fermentation tank, decomposing
and digesting food and water, so San Jiao can be used to treat
digestive problems such as abdominal distension or pain,
indigestion, and retention of food in the stomach.
The Lower Jiao resembles a system of passageways, excreting
urine and stool, so San ]iao can be used to treat retention of urine,
urinary tract infection, constipation, diarrhea, and dysentary:
The San ]iao meridian distributes to the shoulders, ears, and
the middle portion of the external side of the upper limbs, so San

73
Jiao can be used to treat pain in the external aspect of the upper
limbs, scapulohumeral periarthritis, and ear problems.

nr Choose Points According to the Principles

of Modern Medicine
Choosing auricular points according to the principles of modern
physiology, etiology,. and pathology is another important rule in
auricular therapy. For example, the sympathetic nervous system
functions to relax spasm of the visceral smooth muscles, regulate
vasomotion, and inhibit glandular secretion; therefore, Sympathesis
is a major point for the treatment of visceralgia, bronchial asthma,
Raynard's disease ,and hyperhydrosis. The cerebral cortex functions
to harmonize the digestive, cardiovascular, and nervous systems,
therefore Subcortex is used extensively for treatment of diseases
caused by dysfunction of these systems. Endocrine and Adrenal
Gland are always used in conjunction for treatment of inflammatory
and allergic conditions. Occiput and Temple are used for treatment
of auditory and visual disturbances respectively because they
correspond to the visual and auditory centers. Internal Ear and
External Ear are used to treat Meniere's disease because the major
pathogenesis of this condition is labyrinthine hydrops.

N Choose Points According to

Clinical Experience
Practitioners worldwide have accumulated extensive experience
during their long-term practice of auricular therapy. The correct
application of this knowledge in clinical practice is essential if good
therapeutic results are to be attained. For instance, clinical
t>xperience has shown that blood-letting puncturing of Apex of Ear

74
functions to dispel heat, lower blood pressure, tranquilize the mind,
relieve allergic reactions, restore ·consci~usness, and brighten the
eyes. Therefore, Apex of Ear is commonly used to treat fever,
hypertension, insomnia , allergies , headache, poor memory, and
blurred vision. Center of Ear has been found to function to expel
wind and stimulate circulatioll: of the blood, therefore it is used to
treat urticaria and cutaneous pruritis. Ear Shenmen is useful for
calming the mind and relieving pain, and so is used for treating
mental problems and all kinds of pain.

75
 PART TWO
.PRACTICUM
 CHAPTER SEVEN
TREATMENT OF INTERNAL
DISEASES AND DISORDERS

1.. Hypertension

Hypertension is a commonly seen complaint in clinical

practice. It is characterized by high blood pressure of the arterial
system, and is classified into primary and secondary types
according to etiology and pathogenesis. Primary hypertension
refers to hypertension with no clear cause. It is an independent
disease marked by high blood pressure of the arterial system, other
manifestations including headache, dizziness, tinnitus, flushed
face, insomnia, and irritability. In severe cases, blurred vision,
palpitation, sho~tness of breath, poor memory, numbness of the
fingers, or even stroke may occur. There is often a family history
of hypertension. The primary pathogenesis of primary
hypertension is disorder of the central nervous system.
Secondary hypertension refers to hypertension occurring
secondary to organic problems such as nephric, cardiac, or
endocrinal disorder. In these cases, hypertension is a symptom of
the disease, therefore, secondary hypertension is also called
symptomatic hypertension.
Traditional ' Chinese medicine classifies hypertension as
headache or vertigo. It is considered to be caused primarily either
79
by mental injury resulting in stagnation of the liver-qi and
subsequent flaring-up of the liver-fire, by improper diet resulting
in deficiency of the spleen and accumulation of phlegm in the
interior, or by wasting diseases which damage the kidney-yin,
causing the liver-yang to become hyperactive.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Superior Triangular
Fossa and Subcortex;· patchy hard eminence on Liver; whitish
depression with long recovery time when palpated on Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver-yang to reinforce the
kidneys and strengthen the spleen.
Auricular points:
Subcortex, Sympathesis: regulate vasomotricity to alleviate
spasm of the blood vessels.
Superior Triangular Fossa: shown to be clinically effective for
treating hypertension, also called Blood Pressure Lowering Point.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Apex of Ear, Groove of Dorsal Surface: Blood-letting
puncturing of these two points in turn with a three-edged needle
lowers the blood pressure.
Auxiliary points: For hypertension caused by hyperactivity of
the liver-yang, Liver, Kidney, and Heart are added; for
hypertension caused by accumulation of phlegm in the interior,
Spleen and Stomach are added.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing with a
three-edged needle where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy can effectively alleviate
the symptoms of hypertension, including headache, dizziness,
blurred vision, and irritability, but a radical cure is difficult to
achieve. Auricular therapy is suitable primarily as a preventative
80
fo:r both primary and secondary hypertension.

2. Angina Pectoris

Angina pectoris is a type of coronary heart disease caused by

coronary spasm or coronary arteriosclerosis resulting in temporary
or long-term myocardial ischemia and subsequent damage to the
cardiac· muscle. Typical angina pectoris is marked by paroxysmal
constrictive pain in the retrosternal region or left chest, radiating
to the left arm and shoulder. It is usually induced by physical
activity, mental injury, overeating, or attack by cold. In some
cases it may occur while resting. The pain recedes spontaneously
after a short time, or may be relieved by the administration of
nitroglycerin.
Traditional Chinese medicine refers to angina pectoris as Xiong
Bi(stagnation of qi and blood in the chest) ,or genuine cardiac pain.
It is considered to be caused primarily by emotional injury resulting
in stagnation of the liver-qi and heart-blood, or obstruction of the
collaterals by turbid phlegm. Primarily affected are the heart,
spleen, and liver.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Heart, Chest, and
Subcortex; whitish depression with long recovery time when
palpated on Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi and blood to
relieve pain; strengthen the spleen and stomach to remove phlegm.
Auricular points:
Heart, Chest: correspond to the affected regions of the body;
widen the chest to regulate the flow of qi and activate the meridians
to remove stagnant blood.
81
 Liver: regulates the liver-qi to improve blood circulation.
Small Intestine: assists the heart to improve blood circulation.
Subcortex: regulates the circulation.
Sympathesis: regulates vasomotricity to improve the blood
supply to the heart.
Spleen and Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to
remove phlegm in cases of angina pectoris caused by obstruction of
the collaterals by turbid phlegm.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. Strong stimulation should be avoided to prevent
aggravating the condition. Auricular therapy can effectively
alleviate the symptoms of angina pectoris, but long-term treatment
should be given to consolidate the results.

3. Cardiac Neurosis

Cardiac neurosis, also called neurocirculatory asthenia or

effort syndrome, is a functional disorder of the cardiovascular
system caused by disturbance of the central nervous system. It
occurs mainly in adults, and more often in females than in males.
It is characterized by precardial dull pain lasting several hours or
days, or stabbing pain in the apical region of the heart lasting one
to five seconds. It is induced or aggravated primarily by exertion or
mental injury. Other symptoms may include lassitude, palpitation,
shortness of breath' anxiety' restlessness' mild fever'
perspiration, or trembling and numbness of the hands.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, cardiac neurosis is
caused either by extreme grief which damages the heart and spleen,
causing an insufficiency of heart-blood, or by fright which damages
82
the kidneys , causing a disturbance of the balance between the heart
and kidneys. Cardiac neurosis caused by. grief is marked by
precardial dull pain, lassitude, pale complexion, and poor
appetite; cardiac neurosis caused by fright is marked by stabbing
pain in the apical region of the heart accompanied by restlessness
and fever of the Five Hearts, night sweating, extreme anxiety, and
flushed cheeks.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Heart and Chest.
Therapeutic principle: Nourish the heart to calm the mind and
strengthen the spleen and kidneys.
Auricular points:
Heart, Chest: tranquilize the mind and widen the chest.
Liver: regulates the flow of liver-qi to relieve pain.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and cardiovascular
functions.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
·three-edged needle tranquilizes the mind.
Auxiliary points: For deficiency of the heart and spleen,
Spleen and Stomach are added; fr · imbalance of the heart and
kidneys, Kidney is added.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
Auricular self-massage may be practiced on the taped points twice a
day. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the symptoms of
cardiac neurosis, and can also provide a radical cure.

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 4. Rheumatic Arthritis

Rheumatic arthritis refers to a frequently recurnng collagen

disorder of the joints, caused primarily by the Streptococcus
rheumatosis bacteria. It occurs mainly in spring and autumn, and
more often in fem~les than in males. It is marked by multiple,
shifting, and symmetrical inflammation of the major joints,
including the knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hips.
The affected area is usually red, .swollen, hot·, and painful. The
joints may recover no):'mal function with no residual deformity when
the inflammation is relieved.
Traditional Chinese medicine considers rheumatic arthritis to
be a Bi syndrome, caused primarily by exogenous wind, cold, and
dampness. These three pathogens combine to attack the body,
leading to obstruction of qi and blood and insufficient nourishment
of the joints and tendons.
Auricular diagnoisis: In acute cases, severe tenderness or
patchy eminence on areas corresponding to the affected joints; in
chronic cases, dark brown pigmentation or patchy or streaky
scleroma on areas ~orresponding to the· affected joints.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and expel wind and cold to
remove dampness, alleviate swelling, and relieve pain.
Auricular points :
Areas corresponding to the affected joints: Tape both frontal
and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Spleen, Liver: regulate the flow of qi and strengthen the
spleen to remove dampness and alleviate swelling.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: main points for
84
antirheumatism, antiallergy and anti-inflammation.
Kidney, San Jiao: induce diuresis to alleviate swelling.
Apex of Ear: Blood -letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Ear Shenmen: main point for relieving pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating rheumatic arthritis.

5. Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a chronic non&pecific inflammation of the

· mucosa and peripheral tissues of the trachea and bronchi caused by
bacterial or viral infection or by irritation by physical or chemical
factors or allergenic pathogens. It is marked by long-standing
intermittent cough with sputum induced or aggravated by cold or
overstrain, and usually accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the
chest, shortness -of breath, and lassitude.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies bronchitis as
endogenous cough. Affected :organs are the lungs, spleen, and
kidneys. The lungs control dispersal and descent of qi, so cough
occurs when the lungs are affected and the qi cannot descend. The
spleen controls the transportation and transformation of dampness,
so phlegm is produced when the spleen is deficient. The kidneys
govern reception of qi, so respiratory difficulty occurs if the
kidneys are deficient and the qi ~~n not be received.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate or severe tenderness on Lung,
Trachea, and Chest; whitish eminence or streaky scleroma on
85
Trachea and Lung.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen the spleen and kidneys and
regulate the flow of lung-qi to stop cough.
Auricular points:
Trachea, Lung, Chest: correspond to the affected regions of
the body; regulate the flow of lung-qi and widen the chest to
relieve cough.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to relieve cough.
Kidney: reinforces the kidneys to improve reception of qi.
Large Intestine: The large intestine is connected both
internally and externally with the lungs, so Large Intestine is taped
to help the lungs perform the function of dispersal and descent.
Endocrine: relieves inflammation.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve
inflammation.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. The auricular area corresponding to the bronchi is
located between Trachea and Lung; auricular palpation is used to
precisely locate positive points.

6. Bronchial Asthma

Bronchial asthma is an allergic condition of the bronchi,

usually occurring in the autumn and winter. It is marked by
paroxysmal dyspnea and wheezing in the throat, usually
accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the chest, shortness of
breath, productive cough, cyanosis, and orthropnia.
According to traditional Chinese medicine , bronchial asthma is
caused by exogenous factors, improper diet, emotional injury, or
86
overstrain which attack the interior phlegm, causing it to rise and
obstruct the bronchi. Usually affected are the lungs, spleen, and
kidneys. Bronchial asthma is deficient in origin and excessive in
expression.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate or severe tenderness on
Trachea and Lung; depression with long recovery time when
palpated on Lung, Trachea, and Wind Stream.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen the spleen and kidneys and
ease the lungs to relieve asthma.
Auricular points:
Trachea, Lung, Chest: correspond to the affected regions of
the body; ease the lungs and widen the chest to relieve asthma.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to remove phlegm.
Kidney: reinforces the kidneys' ability to receive qi.
Large Intestine: helps the lungs to perform the function of
dispersal and descent of qi.
Sympathesis: alleviates spasm of the bronchial smooth muscle
to relieve asthma.
Apex of Antitragus, Adrenal Gland, Endocrine, Wind
Stream: relieve inflammation and allergic reactions.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve
inflammation.
Use auricular ta.ping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course.

7. Vomiting

Vomiting is a common symptom of many diseases and

disorders including acute gastroenteritis, cardiospasm,
87
pylorospasm, hepatitis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, and cerebral
problems.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, vomiting 1s
classified into excessive and deficient types. The excessive type is
caused by exogenous cold, mental injury, improper diet, or
consumption of contaminated food, all of which may affect the
stomach and result in rebellious rising of the stomach-qi. The
deficient type is caused by febrile diseases or protracted illness
which consumes the stomach-yin so that the stomach-qi cannot
descend. The excessive type is relatively mild, of short duration,
and easily cured; the deficient type is relatively severe, of longer
duration, and more difficult to treat.
Auricular diagnosis: For the excessive type, moderate or
severe tenderness on Stomach; for the deficient type, depression or
deformity on Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the stomach and suppress the
rebellious qi to stop vomiting.
Auricular points:
Stomach, Cardia: correspond to the affected areas of the body.
Spleen: The spleen is connected internally and externally with .
the stomach, so Spleen is treated to strengthen the spleen and
regulate the stomach to stop vomiting.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi and. regulates the stomach to stop
vomiting.
Sympathesis: alleviates spasm of the smooth muscles to stop
vomiting.
Subcortex: regulates the digestive function.
Abdomen, Center of Superior Concha: regulate the flow of qi
to stop vomiting.
88
 Use auricular taping, twice a ~eek, or auricular self-massage
or pressure, twice a day. Five treatments constitute one course for
the excessive type; ten treatments constitute one course for the
deficient type. Auricular therapy is very effective for treating
excessive type vomiting, which can often be relieved after just one
or two treatments.

8. Hiccups

Hiccups are a common symptom of various diseases and

disorders such as phrenospasm, gastrointestinal neurosis, gastritis,
and hepatic conditions. They are caused primarily by spasm of the
diaphragm.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies hiccups into excessive
and deficient types. The excessive type is caused by exogenous
wind-cold, improper diet, or mental injury, all of which can result
in rebellious rising of the stomach-qi. The deficient type is caused
either by febrile disease consuming the stomach-yin or by chronic
disease damaging the stomach-yang and spleen-yang, with
subsequent failure to descend or rebellious rising of the stomach-qi.
Auricular diagnosis: For the excessive type, moderate or
severe tenderness on Center of Ear and Stomach; for the deficient
type, depression with long recovery time whe,n palpated on Center
of Ear and Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the stomach-qi to suppress its
rebellious rising.
Auricular points:
Center of Ear: corresponds to the diaphragm; relieves spasm
of the diaphragm.
89
 Stomach, Spleen: regulate the stomach-qi to suppress its
adverse rising.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi and regulates the stomach-qi.
Sympathesis: alleviates spasm of the diaphragm.
Subcortex: regulates the digestive and nervous functions.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping or pressure. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating excessive type hiccups. In most cases, the
hiccups will have stopped by the time the treatment session is
finished. For deficient type hiccups, auricular therapy can
temporarily relieve spasm of the diaphragm as an expectant
treatment.

9. Gastrointestinal Neurosis

Gastrointestinal neurosis 1s a functional disorder of the

stomach and intestines caused by disturbance of gastrointestinal
movement and secretion. It occurs mainly in adults, and more
often in females than in males. Manifestations include _anorexia,
belching' acid regurgitation' hiccups' nausea' vomiting' a burning
sensation in the epigastric region, and abdominal distension or
pain. Certain types of gastrointestinal neurosis are characterized by
typical primary symptoms, for example, nervous anorexia is
marked by anorexia accompanied by emaciation and_ amenorrhea;
nervous vomiting is marked by vomiting without nausea and with
no difficulty in eating immediately afterwards; nervous belching is
marked . by repeated continuous belching; globus hystericus is
marked by the sensatio1;1 of a foreign body blocking the throat
which cannot be swallowed or spit out, but with no accompanging
90
 functional difficulty in swallowing. Intestinal enuresis is marked by
abdominal pain, discomfort, or distension, borborygmi, and
diarrhea or constipation. Nervous diarrhea is marked by watery
diarrhea induced by mental injury; irritable colon syndrome is
marked by paroxysmal intestinal colic in the left inferior abdomen,
abdominal distension, and constipation or diarrhea.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies gastrointestinal
neurosis as stomachache, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, or
hiccups, depending on the primary symptoms. It is considered to
be caused primarily by mental injury resulting in stagnation of the
liver-qi and subsequent attack on the stomach and spleen by
hyperactive liver-qi.
Auricular diagnosis: Patchy hard emmence on Liver; severe
tenderness on Stomach, Small Intestines, and Large Intestine;
whitish depression with long recovery time when palpated on
Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: regulate the flow of liver-qi and
strengthen the spleen and stomach.
Auricular points:
Stomach, Small Intestine, Large Intestine, Abdomen:
correspond to the affected area of the body; regulate the stomach
and intestines.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen and regulates the stomach.
Liver: regulates the flow of liver-qi.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous system.
Endocrine: regulates gastrointestinal endocrine function.
Auxiliary points: for vomiting, Cardi~ is added; for hiccups,
Center of Ear is added; for acid regurgitation, Sympathesis ts
added; for abdominal distension, Center of Superior Concha ts
91
added; for gastric or abdominal pain, Ear Shenmen and
Sympathesis are added; for di~rrhea, Ear Shenmen and Center of
Superior Concha are added; for constipation, Rectum is added; for
globus hystericus, Throat and Esophagus are added.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. Auricular self-massage can also be practiced twice a
day. In some cases,. there may be great improvement in such
symptoms as abdominal pain, belching, or abdominal distension
after just a few treatments. However, extended treatment should
be given in order to achieve a radical cure.

10. Esophagitis

Esophagitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the

esophagus caused by physical, chemical, or biopathogenic factors,
or by disorder of the esophagus itself. It is marked by discomfort,
burning, and pain in the retrosternal region inferior to the xiphoid
process, aggravated by eating, forward bending, rapid movement,
or lying on the side or back. The pain may radiate to the back,
interscapular region, ears, and upper arms. As the condition
progresses, burning and pain may be alleviated but difficulty in
swallowing gradually increases, swallowing sometimes becoming
quite painful in severe cases.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, esophagitis is
caused by improper diet, consumption of contaminated food,
overindulgence in cold or spicy food, or exogenous pathogens, all
of which can lead to stagnation of qi and blood in the esophagus.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Esophagus and
Chest.
92
 Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi and blood to
relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Esophagus, Chest: correspond. to the affected region. Locate ... "
positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Stomach, Spleen: strengthen the spleen and stomach.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen : relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-.
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course.

11. Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammatory condition of the gastric mucosa. It

is classified into acute and chronic types. Acute gastritis includes
acute simple gastritis, acute corrosive gastritis, acute erosive
gastritis, and acute purulent gastritis. Chronic gastritis includes
chronic superficial gastritis. chronic atrophic gastritis, and chronic
hypertrophic gastritis. Most commonly seen in clinical practice is
acute simple gastritis, characterized by distension and pain in the
' epigastric region, usually accompanied by poor appetite, nausea,
vomiting, belching, and acid regurgitation.
Traditional Chinese medicine refers to gastritis as epigastric
pain, and classifies it into excessive and deficient types. Excessive
gastritis is considered to be caused by invasion of the stomach by
93
cold, irregular diet, or attack on the stomach by hyperactive liver-
qi; deficient gastritis may either develop from the excessive type or
be caused by injury of the spleen and stomach due to long-standing
illness. Excessive gastritis is marked by distending pain in the
epigastric region aggravated by pressure. It is a relatively mild
condition of short duration with a good prognosis. Deficient
gastritis is marked by- dull pain in the epigastric region relieved by
pressure. It is a relatively severe condition of long duration and
correspondingly difficult to treat.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute gastritis, moderate or severe
tenderness on Stomach; for chronic gastritis, whitish patchy or
streaky eminence on Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen the spleen and stomach and
regulate the flow of qi to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Stomach: corresponds to the affected region of the body.
Spleen: The spleen is connected both internally and externally
with the stomach, so Spleen is taped to strengthen the spleen and
stomach.
Liver: regulates the flow of q1 to relieve pam and alleviate
distension.
Subcortex, Endocrine: regulate the digestive function.
San Jiao, Abdomen, Center of Superior Concha: regulate the
flow of qi in the Middle jiao to alleviate distension.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle relieves inflammation and pain.
For acute gastritis, use auricular taping and blood-letting
puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. For chronic gastritis, use auricular taping
94
and blood-letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week, or
auricular pressure and massage, twice a day. Ten treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is especially effective for
treating acute gastritis. It can relieve pain, alleviate distension,
and improve digestion and absorption.

12. Acute Gastroenteritis

Acute gastroenteritis is an acute inflammation of the intestines

caused by overindulgence in food or alcohol or consumption of
contaminated food, occurring mainly in summer and autumn. It is
characterized by sudden onset of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and
vomiting. Dilute or watery stool is passed ten or more times each
day. In cases with severe vomiting, disturbance of the water/
electrolyte balance with subsequent lowered blood pressure or
muscle spasm may occur.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies acute gastroenteritis as
diarrhea. It is considered to be caused primarily either by invasion
of the intestines by damp-heat, overindulgence in food or alcohol,
or consumption of contaminated food, resulting in dysfunction of
the stomach and spleen so that liquid and solid cannot be separated
from and diarrhea occurs.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate or severe tenderness on
Abdomen, Large Intestine, and Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and remove dampness to
stop diarrhea.
Auricular points:
Stomach, Large Intestine, Small Intestine: correspond to the
affected parts of the body; regulate the function of the stomach and
95
large and small intestines.
Spleen: The spleen governs transportation and transformation
of water and dampness, so Spleen is treated to strengthen the
spleen and remove dampness.
Sympathesis: alleviates spasm of the smooth muscles to relieve
pain.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle relieves inflammation and pain.
Use auricular taping, or blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, once a day or once every other day. Five treatments
constitute .one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating acute gastroenteritis; in most cases there will be great
improvement in such symptoms as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and
vomiting after just one or two treatments. I1;1 cases with severe
disturbance of the water I electrolyte balance, concurrent emergency
measures should be undertaken. ·

13. Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcer refers to circular or oval lesions on the wall of the

stomach or duodenum, occuring primarily on the gastric pylorus or
the duodenal bulb. Causes include physical, chemical, and
emotional factors, as well as some diseases, which may increase the
corrosiveness of the gastric secretions. while at the same time
weakening the defensive function of the gastric mucosa, leading to
the formation of ulcers. Peptic ulcer is marked by regularly
occuring pain in the epigastric region, accompanied by belching,
acid regurgitation, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite. Onset of
96
pain is generally related to intake of food, in cases of gastric ulcer
usually occurring 30 minutes to two hours after eating 'and
disappearing sometimes before the next meal. In cases of duodenal
ulcer, the pain usually starts three to four hours after eating and is
relieved after eating the next meal.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies peptic ulcer as
epigastric p~in, and considers it to be caused either by mental
injury resulting in stagnation of the liver-qi and subsequent attack
on the stomach by hyperactive liver-qi, or by improper eating
habits such as irregularity of meals or overindulgence in raw, cold,
or spicy food, resulting in injury to the stomach and spleen. The
main pathogenesis of peptic ulcer is stagnation of qi and blood
which affects the stomach, spleen, and liver.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate tenderness or streaky or patchy
scleroma on Stomach or Duodenum.
Therapeutic principle: Circulate qi and blood to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Stomach, Duodenum, Abdomen: correspond to the affected
regions of the body; relieve pain and accelerate healing of ulcers.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen and stomach.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi to relieve pain.
Sympathesis: relieves pain and inhibits gastric secretion.
Subcortex: regulates the function of the cerebrel cortex.
Ear Shenmen and Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve
pain.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy can effectively cure the clinical
symptoms of peptic ulcer, but an extended period of treatment is
required to cpmpletely heal the lesion.
97
 14. Chronic Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea is a chronic problem of the digestive system,

characterized by persistent di<!rrhea lasting for over two months
and usually accompanied by abdominal distention or pain and poor
appetite. It is a common symptom of many diseases and disorders
such as chronic enteritis, intestinal tuberculosis, functional
disturbance of the intestines, and allergic colonitis.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, chronic diarrhea is
caused either by deficiency of the spleen-qi or of the kidney-yang.
The former is marked by intermittent diarrhea containing
undigested food, aggravated by invasion by cold, consumption of
greasy or raw food, or mental injury. Other manifestations include
sallow complexion, emaciation, and listlessness. The latter is
marked by pre-dawn diarrhea, aggravated by cold or exertion and
accompanied by coldness of the limbs and· body and wealQless and
soreness of the back and knees.
Auricular diagnosis: For diarrhea caused by deficiency of the
spleen-qi, whitish depression with long recovery time when
palpated on Spleen; for diarrhea caused by deficiency of the kidney-
yang, whitish depression with long recovery time when palpated on
Ki.dney.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen the spleen and reinforce the
kidneys.
Auricular points:
Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Rectum, Abdomen:
correspond to affected areas of the body.
Endocrine, Subcortex: regulate the function of the digestive
98
system.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and stop
diarrhea.
Auxiliary points: for deficiency of the spleen-qi, Spleen is
added; for deficiency of the kidney-yang, Kidney and Spleen are
added.
Use ~uricular taping, twice a week, or auricular pressure or
massage, twice a day. Ten treatments constitute one course.

15: Constipation

Constipation refers to difficult and infrequent defecation •. .It is

a common symptom of various diseases and disorders such as
habitual constipation, gastrointestinal neurosis, fever, and problems
of the rectum and anus. Additional symptoms may include
abdominal distension, headache, dizziness, poor appetite,
insomnia, nausea, vomiting, and weakness.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, constipation ts
caused either by accumulation of heat in the intestines which
consumes the intestinal fluid, or by deficiency of qi, blood, or
bodily fluid causing lack of moisture in the intestines. In both
cases, peristalsis of the large intestine is affected, resulting in
lengthy retention of digested food in the intestines. Excessive type
constipation is caused by accumulation of heat in the intestines, and
is characterized by difficult -and infrequent defecation with hard
stool; deficient type constipation is caused by deficiency of qi,
blood, and bodily fluid, and is characterized by difficult defecation
with soft stool, usually accompanied by sweating, shortness of
breath, and weakness during defecation.
99
 Auricular diagnosis: For the excessive type, severe tenderness
on Large Intestine and Abdomen; for the deficient type, whitish
depression with long recovery time when palpated on Large
Intestine and Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: For the excessive type, dispel heat to
encourage defecation; for the deficient type, moisten the intestines
to encourage defecation.
Auricular points:
Large Intestine, Abdomen, Rectum: correspond to the
affected areas of the body; improve peristalsis.
San Jiao: improves the flow of qi and bodily fluid.
Center of Superior Concha: shown to be clinically effective for
treating abdominal diseases and disorders.
Auxiliary points: For excessive cases, Stomach and Apex of
the Ear are punctured with a three-edged needle to draw blood and
dispel heat; for deficient cases, Lung and Spleen are added to
produce and distribute bodily fluid to moisten the intestines.
For the excessive type, use auricular taping, and bloodletting
puncturing where indicated, twice a week; five treatments
constitute one course. For the deficient type, use auricular taping,
twice a week, or auricular pressure or self-massage, twice a day;
ten treatments constitute one course.

16. Headache
•
Headache is a very common symptom of various diseases and
disorders. It is classified into two types according to pathogenesis.
Functional headache occurs with no clear reason, for instance,
migraine or headache occuring during neura'sism or menstruation.
100
Organic headache is usually caused by inflammation of or pressure
on the meninges, cerebral blood vessels, or cranial nerves , for
instance headache due to meningitis, hypertension, 'trigeminal
neuralgia·, or intracranial space-occupying lesion.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, headache is caused
either by invasion of exogenous pathogens, or by endogenous
injury sue~ as mental injury, improper diet, or excessive sexual
act!Vlty. It is classified according to meridian theory. The
Yangming meridian distributes to the forehead, so frontal headache
is called Y angming headache; the Shaoyang meridian distributes to
the bilateral sides of the head, so headache in the temporal region
is called Shaoyang headache; the Taiyang meridian distributes to
the back of the head, so headache in the occipital region is called
Taiyang headache; the Jueyin meridian distributes to the vertex, so
headache in the vertex is called Jueyin headache.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or patchy eminence on
areas corresponding to the location of the headache.
Therapeutic principle: Remove obstruction of the meridians to
relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Ear Shenmen: tranquilizes the mind and relieves pain.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous system.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle tranquilizes the mind, clears the brain, and
relieves pain.
Auxiliary points: For frontal headache, Forehead and Stomach
are added; for bilateral or unilateral headache, Temple and
Gallbladder are added; for oceipital headache, Occiput and Urinary
Bladder are added; for vertex headache, Liv<;_r and positive points
101
on the lateral side of the antitragus are added.
Uses auricular taping, or blood-letting puncturing where
inoicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
For chronic headache, auricular pressure or self-massage can be
practiced twice a day. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating all types offunctional headache and some types of organic
headache, but it is ineffective in cases of headache caused by
intracranial space-occupying lesion.

17. Neurosism

Neurosism is one of the most commonly seen neuroses m

clinical practice, occurring mainly in adults and more often m
females than in males. It is caused primarily by protracted mental
injury, resulting in an imbalance between excitement and inhibition
of the cortex. Manifestations include insomnia, nightmares,
palpitation, restlessness, irritability, dizziness, headache,
perspiration, poor appetite, listlessness, lassitude, and poor
memory.
Traditional Chinese medicine refers to neurosism as insomnia,
and classifies it into the following three types. ( 1) Neurosism
caused by stagnation of the liver-qi, marked by insomnia,
nightmares, a sensation of fullness in the chest, sighing,
irritability, and depression; ( 2) neurosism caused by imbalance
between the heart and kidneys, marked by refractory insomnia,
palpitation, dry mouth, poor memory, flushed cheeks, and heat
and restlessness of the Five Hearts; ( 3) neurosism caused by
retention of food in the stomach, marked by insomnia, epigastric
or abdominal distension, nausea, and vomiting ..
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 Auricular diagnosis: For neurostsm caused by stagnation of
the liver-qi, severe tenderness or eminence on Liver; for neurosis~
caused by imbalance of the heart and kidneys, whitish depression
with long recovery time when palpated on Heart and Kidney; for
neurosism caused by retention of food in the stomach, severe
tenderness on Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of liver-qi,
harmonize ·the heart and kidneys, and strengthen the spleen and
stomach.
Auricular points:
Subcortex: harmonizes excitement and inhibition of the
cortex.
Anterior Lobe: also called Neurosism Point; tranquilizes the
mind.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle tranquilizes the mind and clears the brain.
Auxiliary points: For stagnation of the liver-qi, Liver and
Chest are added to soothe the liver, regulate the flow of qi, and
open the chest; for imbalance of the heart and kidneys, Heart and
Kidney are added to cause the heart-fire to descend and the kidney-
water to ascend' thus correcting the imbalance; for retention of
food in the stomach, Spleen, Stomach, and Abdomen are added to
invigorate the spleen and stomach and promote digestion and
drainage.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
Auricular pressure or self-massage may also be practiced twice a
day. Auricular therapy is very effective for treating all types of
103
neurostsm:

18. Peripheral Neuritis

Peripheral neuritis, also called multiple neuritis, is a disorder

of the peripheral nerves caused by various external factors
including poisoning by heavy metals, drugs, pesticides, or
biopathogens, or by disorders of the metabolism or endocrine
system. It is marked by symmetrical sensory disturbance,
dyskinesia, and autonomic nerve disturbance of the extremities.
Sensory disturbance includes abnormal sensations such as stabbing
or burning pain, electric shock, or formication, and both deep and
superficial hypoesthesia. Dyskinesia includes myasthenia,
hypomyotonia, various degrees of paralysis and myoatrophy, and
tendon hyporeflexia. Autonomic nerve disturbance includes
desquamation; cold, pale, or blueish skin; hyperhydrosis or
anhydrosis, and coarse or brittle finger and toenails.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies peripheral neuritis as a
Wei syndrome and refers to it as numbness. It is considered to be
caused primarily by internal deficiency of qi and blood and external
invasion by pathogens. The combination of deficient antipathogenic
qi and excessive pathogens results in stagnation of qi and blood and
insufficient nourishment of the muscles and skin.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the affected extremities.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen ·the bo.dy' s resistance m
order to eliminate pathogenic factors; nourish the muscles and skin.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected extremities: Locate
104
postttve points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Liver: regulates the flow of qi and blood.
Heart: improves blood circulation.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to tonify ·
qi and blood.
Lung: disperses nutrients to the entire body.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and endocrinal functions.
Wind Stream, Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve
inflammation.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course.

19. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is caused by frequently recurring abnormal

neurogenic discharge leading to sudden and temporary dysfunction
of the cerebrum. Clinically, epilepsy is classified into the following
four types. ( 1 ) Grand mal epilepsy, marked by loss of
consciousness and spasm of the entire body, lasting from five to
fifteen minutes; ( 2 ) petit mal epilepsy , marked by temporary
disturbance of consciousness lasting for less than a minute, with no
accompanying spasm; (3) localized epilepsy, marked by temporary
localized spasm lasting for less than a minute' with no disturbance
of consciousness; ( 4) psychomotor epilepsy, marked by temporary
disturbance of consciousness and mental confusion, lasting from
several minutes to half an hour.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, epilepsy is caused
either by deficiency of the liver and kidney leading to agitation of
105
the liver, or by accumulation of turbid phlegm obstructing the
ascent of clear-qi.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Subcortex; patchy
hard eminence on Liver.
Therapeutic principle: Calm the mind and expel exogenous
wind to restore consciousness and open the orifices.
Auricular points~

Subcortex, Forehead, Temple, Occiput: correspond to the

affected areas of the body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal
and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation .
.Liver, Kidney: reinforce the liver and kidney.
Spleen, Abdomen: strengthen the spleen to remove phlegm.
Chest: widens the chest and regulates the flow of qi.
Heart, Ear Shenmen: calm the mind.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting punctunng of this point with a
three-edged needle calms the mind and restores consciousness.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and hlood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course.

20. Hysteria

Hysteria is a functional disorder caused by mental injury,

occurring primarily in young people and more often in females than
in males. The first hysterical attack is usually related to psychic
trauma. Manifestations are various, for example, mental disorders
including emotional outburst such as irra~ional laughing or crying,
hysterical syncope, or mutism; physical problems including
hysterical paralysis, aphonia, spasm, blindness, deafness, and
106
globus hystericus; and internal disorders including nervous
vomiting, anorexia,· hiccups, and frequent urination.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies hysteria as a Yu
syndrome, and c<;msiders it to be caused primarily by mental injury
which results in accumulation of phlegm in the interior or·
stagnation of the liver-qi. Protracted stagnation of the liver-qi may
result in it~ transformation into hyperactive liver-fire. Hysteria
caused by accumulation of phlegm in the interior is marked by
depression, a feeling of fullness in the chest, and the sensation of a
foreign body in the throat. Hysteria caused by stagnation of the
liver-qi is marked by depresson, poor appetite, and distension or
pain in the chest or hypochondriac region; hysteria caused by
hyperactive liver-fire is marked by restlessness, irritability, pain in
the chest or hypochondriac region, dry throat, bitter taste in the
mouth, pink eye, tinnitus, and headache.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Chest; eminence or
patchy scleroma on Liver; deep depression with long recovery time
when palpated on Heart and Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver-qi to relieve mental
depression; nourish the heart and strengthen the spleen to calm the
mind.
Auricular points:
Liver: soothes the liver-qi to relieve mental depression.
Chest: opens the chest to regulate the flow of qi.
Heart: nourishes the heart to calm the mind.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen and stomach to remove
phlegm; used for hysteria caused by accumulation of phlegm in the
interiOr.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous function.
107
 Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle calms the mind and dispels heat; used for
hysteria caused by hyperactive liver-fire.
Auxiliary points: used according to symptoms. For example,
for the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, Throat is added;
for nervous vomiting; Cardia is added; for hysterical blindness,
Eye is added.
Use auricular taping with strong stimulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course.

21. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a non-suppurative inflammation of the

small joints caused primarily by autoimmunity. It occurs mainly in
young people and adults, and more often in females than in males.
Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by chronic, multiple, and
symmetrical inflammation of the small joi~ts. The paracentral
interphalangeal joints of the hands are most commonly affected,
followed by the joints of the toes, ankles, and wrists. In some
atypical cases, major joints such as the elbows, shoulders, knees,
and hips may be affected. In the initial stage, there is pam,
rigidity, swelling, and tenderness of the affected joints, most
severe in the morning and gradually lessening with mild movement.
In the intermediate stage, symptoms worsen, with the joints
becoming swollen and fusiform. In the advanced stage, stiffness
and deformity of the affected joints may be accompanied by atrophy
of the surrounding muscles. General symptoms may include
108
lassitude, emaciation, mild fever, poor appetite, and mild anemia.
Traditional Chinese medicine classified rheumatoid arthritis as
a Bi syndrome. It is considered to be caused by internal deficiency
of qi and blood and external invasion by wind-cold or damp-heat.
The combination of internal and external factors results in ,
obstruction of qi and blood and insufficient nourishment of the
tendons, muscles, and bones.
Auricular diagnosis: In the initial stage, severe tenderness on
areas corresponding to the affected joints and on Wind Stream; in
the intermediate and advanced stages, moderate tenderness with
nodular scleroma on areas corresponding to the affected joints.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce antipathogenic qi and expel
external pathogens to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected joints: Locate positive
points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Liver, Spleen, Kiqney: soothe the liver, strengthen the
spleen, and tonify the kidneys to nourish the tendons, muscles,
and bones.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: main
antirheumatism, anti-inflammation, and antiallergy points.
Ear Shenmen: main point for pain relief.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle expels external pathogens to relieve pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the
symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, but long-term treatment should
109
be given to consolidate the results.

22. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is caused by autoimmunity or psychic trauma

resulting in thyroid enlargement and hypersecretion of thyroxin,
and is marked by hyperexcitation of the sympathetic nervous
system and hypermetabolism. It occurs primarily in adult females.
Manifestations include irritability, trembling of the fingers and
tongue, lassitude, polyphagia, emaciation, frequent defecation,
aversion to heat, and profuse perspiration. Signs include mild or
moderate diffuse thyroid enlargement, tremor and vascular
murmur, premature heartbeat, paroxysmal tachycardia, auricular
fibrillation, and exophthalmus. In some atypical cases, there may
be symptoms other than the usual manifestations of
hyperthyroidism, such as listlessness, dry or cold skin, poor
appetite, or bradycardia.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, hyperthyroidism is
caused primarily by mental injury or improper diet leading to
stagnation of the liver-qi and accumulation of phlegm in the
interior. The protracted combination of stagnant qi and
accumulated phlegm results in the formation of pathogenic fire
which consumes the body's yin. Finally, deficiency of fire occurs
due to yin deficiency.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or deep depression
with long recovery time when palpated on Neck; patchy eminence
or scleroma on Liver.
Therapeutic principle: Nourish yin to balance fire.

110
 Auricular points:
Neck: corresponds to the affected area of the body.
Liver: soothes the liver to regulate the flow of qi.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to remove phlegm.
Kidney: nourishes yin to reduce pathogenic fire.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim: regulate endocrine function.
Subcortex: regulates nervous and endocrine functions.
Auxiliary points: For aversion to cold and profuse sweating,
Syrnpathesis is added; for cardiac problems, Heart is added; for
sexual dysfunction or irregular menstruation, Internal Genitals is
added; for exophthalmus, Eye is added.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy can improve the symptoms of
hyperthyroidism, but long-term treatment should be given to
consolidate the results.

23. Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a disturbance of the carbohydrate

metabolism caused by relative or absolute hypoinsulism. Typical
diabetes mellitus is marked by polydipsia, polyuria, emaciation,
and lassitude. Laboratory tests will reveal high blood sugar and
glucose-positive urine. Accompanying manifestations may include
cutaneous pruritis, frequently recurring furuncle or carbuncle,
multiple neuritis, sexual dysfunction, irregular menstruation,
hypertension, arterial sclerosis, and disorders of the eye.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, diabetes mellitus is
caused either by overindulgence in greasy or spicy food which
damages the spleen and stomach, resulting in accumulation of heat
111
in the interior; by emotional injury resulting in stagnation of the
liver-qi which subsequently turns into hyperactive liver-fire; or by
excessive sexual activity which consumes the kidney yin. All of
these factors may result in yin deficiency and subsequent
production of endogenous dry-heat.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies diabetes mellitus
according to which organs are affected. Diabetes mellitus of the
Upper Jiao refers to accumulation of heat in 'the lungs, and is
marked by thirst, polydipsia, dryness of the mouth and tongue,
and frequent urination; diabetes mellitus of the Middle ]iao refers
to accumulation of heat in the stomach and is marked by frequent
hunger, polyphagia, and emaciation; diabetes mellitus of the
Lower Jiao refers to yin or yang deficiency of the kidney and -1s
marked by turbid, sugary urine and frequent urination.
Auricular diagnosis: Eminence or whitish depression with long
recovery time when palpated on Pancreas &. Gallbladder.
Therapeutic principle: Rein!orce the yin fluid to moisten
endogenous dry-heat.
Auricular points:
Pancreas &. Gallbladder: stimulate the pancreas to secrete
insulin and lower blood sugar.
San Jiao: The mixed branches of the glossopharyngeal nerve,
vagus nerve, and facial nerve pass through this area, so San Jiao is
treated to directly stimulate the vagus nerve and improve insulin
secretion by the pancreas.
Spleen, Kidney: tonify the body fluid and ym to moisten
endogenous dry-heat.
Midpoint of Rim, Endocrine: regulate endocrinal function to
improve insulin secretion.
112
 Subcortex: regulates digestive, nervous, and endocrinal
function.
Auxiliary points: correspond to the location of complicating
conditions. For example, for cutaneous pruritis, Wind Streain and
Ear Shenmen are added; for skin infections, Adrenal Gland and
areas corresponding to the affected region of the body are added.
Use a1,1ricular taping, primarily on the left auricle, twice a
week. Ten treatments constitute one course. Sterilize the auricle
and press carefully in order to avoid auricular infection. Auricular
therapy can both alleviate the symptoms of diabetes mellitus and
lower the blood sugar. Dietary measures and administration of
hypoglycemic agents should be combined with auricular therapy. In
cases of insulin dependence, the insulin dosage may be gradually
decreased as symptoms improve and blood sugar approaches normal
levels during the course of auricular therapy.

24. Diabetes Insipidus

Diabetes insipidus is a dysfunction of the system of water

resorption by the renal tubules, caused by insufficient diuretic
hormone. It is marked by polyuria, thirst, polydipsea, and
hyposthenuria. It is classified into ideopathic and secondary types.
The idiopathic type has no clear and definite cause, although there
may be a family history of diabetes insipidus; the secondary type is
caused by diseases of the hypothalamus, neurohypophysis, head
injury, or infection.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, diabetes insipidus
is caused primarily by congenital insufficiency, weak constitution
due to protracted illness, or excessive sexual activity. Mainly
113
affected are the kidneys and urinary bladder.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or whitish depression
with long recovery time when palpated on Kidney, Midpoint of
Rim, and Endocrine.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the kidneys to arrest surplus
urine.
Auricular points:·
Kidney, Urinary Bladder: reinforce the kidneys and
strengthen the urinary bladder to reduce urination.
Spleen, Mouth: strengthen the spleen to produce bodily fluid
and reduce thirst.
Midpoint of Rim: corresponds to the pituitary gland; increases
secretion of antidiuretic hormone.
Subcortex, Endocrine: regulate endocrinal function to increase
secretion of antidiuretic hormone.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy can effectively improve the
symptoms of idiopathic diabetes insipidus, and can also be used as
an expectant treatment for secondary diabetes insipidus.

25. Enuresis Nocturna

Enuresis nocturna refers to unconscious urination during

sleep. It occurs primarily m children: It is caused either by
improper development of the brain resulting m hypoactive
micturation reflex, or by enterobiasis resulting m hyperactive
micturation reflex.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, enuriesis nocturna
is caused primarily by deficiency of the kidney-qi resulting in lack
114
of bladder control. In addition to unconscious urination during
sleep, other manifestations include poor appetite, sallow
complexion, emaciation, listlessness, or even developmental
disability.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate tenderness on Urinary Bladder,
Kidney, and Lumbosacral Vertebrae.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the kidneys to control the
urinary bladder.
Auricular points:
Kidney, Bladder, Lumbosacral Vertebrae: correspond to the
affected area of the body; reinforce the kidneys to increase bladder
capacity.
Subcortex, Forehead: regulate the function of the cerebral
cortex to strengthen the micturation reflex.
Central Rim: corresponds to the pituitary gland; has
antidiuretic properties.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy is effective for treating enuresis
nocturna caused by improper development of the brain, since it can
increase stimulation of the cerebral cortex and encourage the
establishment of a complete micturation reflex. For cases caused by
enterobiasis, auricular therapy should be used auxiliary to
etiological treatment with antibiotics. Auricular therapy 1s
ineffective in cases of enuresis with organic causes such as cleft
spine or spinal cord injury.

115
 CHAPTER EIGHT
TREATMENT OF SURGICAL
DISEASES AND DISORDERS

1. Acute Mastitis
Acute mastitis Is an acute suppurative inflammation of the
breast caused by the staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It occurs
primarily in primiparae women while breast-feeding, with onset
usually occuring three to four weeks after delivery. There is often a
history of cracked nipple, inverted nipple, o~ glactostasis before
onset. In the initial stage, the breast is red and swollen with
localized hard and tender regions; after several days the hard
inflamed mass softens and an abscess is formed. General symptoms
may include high fever, chills, headache, nausea, poor appetite,
and even septicemia.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acute mastitis IS
caused either by mental injury leading to stagnation of the liver-qi
and its subsequent transformation into hyperactive liver-fire, or by
overindulgence in greasy or spicy food resulting in accumulation of
heat and toxins in the stomach. The combination of toxins, heat,
and milk results in redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the breast.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or reddish eminence on
Chest and Thoracic Vertebrae.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and toxins to alleviate
swelling and relieve pain.
116
 Auricular points:
Chest, Thoracic Vertebrae: correspond to the affected area of
the body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal
surfaces to increase stimulation. Auricular areas corresponding to
the breast are located between Chest and Thoracic Vertebrae and
between Thoracic Vertebrae and the scaphoid fossa.
Stomach: The stomach meridian distributes to the breasts, so
Stomach is taped to activate the meridian and dispel heat and
toxins.
Liver: regulates the flow of qi.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: main anti-inflammation points.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and endocrine functions.
Ear Shenmen: main point for relieving pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and toxins, alleviates swelling, and
relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating acute mastitis.

2. Cystic Hyperplasia of the Breast

Cystic hyperplasia of the breast refers to cystogenesis of the

mammary tubes caused by hyperplasia and acinar epithelia. It
occurs primarily in women above forty years old who have a history
of irregular menstruation, infertility, or miscarriage. It is marked
by periodic descending pain in the breast, aggravated by mental
injury or before menstruation and alleviated after menstruation.
117
Masses in the breast occur multiply and may be circular, oval, or
lobulated, with an indistinct border and adhesion to peripheral
tissues. The masses may vary with the menstrual cycle and state of
mind.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, cystic hyperplasia
of the breast is caused primarily by mental injury resulting in
stagnation of the liver-qi and accumulation of phlegm in the
interior. Usually affected are the liver, spleen, and stomach.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Chest; dark brown
pigmentation and nodular scleroma on Thoracic Vertebrae; patchy
scleroma on Liver.
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver and strengthen the
spleen to regulate the flow of qi, remove phlegm, and soften and
dissolve the hard masses.
Auricular points:
Chest, Thoracic V ertehrae: correspond to the affected area of
the body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal
surfaces to increase stimulation. Auricular areas corresponding to
the breast are located between Chest and Thoracic Vertebrae and
between 'J'horacic Vertebrae and the scaphoid fossa.
Liver: soothes the liver to regulate the flow of q1 and
strengthen the spleen.
·. Stomach: The stomach meridian passes through the breasts,
so Stomach is taped to activate the stomach meridian and dissolve
the masses.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim, Internal Genitals, Subcortex:
regulate nervous and endocrine function.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
118
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating cystic hyperplasia of the breast.

3. Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the

gallbladder. The acute type is marked by sudden persistent pain in
the right upper abdomen with paroxysmal exacerbation and
radiation to the right shoulder and back, usually accompanied by
nausea, vomiting, and fever. It occurs primarily in middle-aged
women and is usually induced by overindulgence in greasy food.
There is usually a history of acute cholecystitis in cases of ~hronic

cholecystitis. The manifestations of an acute attack of chronic

cholecystitis are similar to those of acute cholecystitis. The
remission stage of chronic cholecystitis is marked by distension and
discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating, belching, and
aversion to greasy food, usually accompanied by dull pain in the
right shoulder and back which is aggravated by standing, motion,
or cold showers.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies cholecystitis as
hypochondriac pain, and considers it to be caused by exogenous or
endogenous damp-heat leading to dampness and heat in the
gallbladder and liver and subsequent discoordination between the
stomach and spleen.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Pancreas &
Gallbladder for acute cholecystitis and acute attack of chronic
'
cholecystitis; streaky or patchy emmence on Pancreas &.
Gallbladder for chronic cholecystitis.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat and soothe the liver
119
and gallbladder.
Auricular points:
Pancreas &. Gallbladder: correspond to the affected organs.
Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation. Concentrate on treating the right auricle.
Liver: soothes the liver and gallbladder.
Abdomen, Thoracic Vertebrae: Locate positive points; tape
both frontal and. dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation. The
Thoracic Vertebrae positive point is usually found between
Thoracic Vertebrae and the scaphoid fossa.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to
transport and transform water and dampness.
San Jiao: dispels damp-heat.
Root of Ear Vagus: shown in clinical practice to be effective
for treating cholecystitis.
Endocrine: regulates the endocrine function.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week, Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is effective for treating
both acute and chronic cholecystitis.

4. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis refers to acute or chronic inflammation of the

pancreas. Acute pancreatitis is caused by pancreatic secretions
which overflow from the pancr~atic duct, resulting in inflammation
of the pancreas and its peripheral tissues. Acute pancreatitis is
120
marked by suddenly occurring, persistent stabbing pain in the left
upper abdomen, with paroxysmal exacerbation and radiation to the
lumbar region, back, and left shoulder, usually accompanied by
nausea, vomiting, fever, profuse perspiration, and even tenamy or
toxic shock. It occurs primarily in young peopie and adults, and is
usually induced by biliary ascariasis, roundworm, overindulgence
in food or alcohol, or mental injury. Chronic pancreatitis is marked
by frequently recurring severe pain in the upper abdomen, radiating
to the lumbar region, back, and left shoulder, and usually lasting
for four to five hours. During the remission stage there may be no
symptoms or minor dull pain in the upper abdomen. Some cases are
marked by protracted, persistant, gradually-worsening pain in the
upper abdomen, while others may have no pain at all. Chronic
pancreatitis occurs mainly in middle-aged people, and more often in
males than in females. Alcoholics and those with a history of
cholecystitis, cholangitis, cholelithiasis, or acute pancreatitis are
at high risk for chronic pancreatitis.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies pancreatitis as
abdominal pain, and considers it to be caused primarily by
overindulgence in food or alcohol or by mental injury leading to
obstruction of qi and blood in the interior.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute pancreatitis, severe tenderness
on Pancreas &. Gallbladder and Abdomen; for chronic pancreatitis,
moderate or severe tenderness or patchy eminence on Pancreas &.
Gallbladder.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Pancreas & Gallbladder: correspond to the affected organs.
Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
121
increase stimulation. Concentrate on treating the left auricle.
Spleen, Stomach: regulate the spleen and stomach.
Sa'n Jiao: regulates the flow of qi to relieve pain.
Abdomen, Center of Superior Concha: relieve abdominal pain.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen, Sympathesis: relieve pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is only an
auxiliary treatment for acute pancreatitis; other measures should
be undertaken concurrently.

5. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the

appendix. Acute appendicitis is marked in the initial stage by
shifting abdominal pain, starting in the upper abdomen or umbilical
region and moving after several hours to the right lower abdomen
and becoming persistent with paroxysmal exacerbation. A small
number of cases may experience pain in the right lower abdomen at
onset. Other manifestations include nausea, vomiting, poor
appetite, constipation, diarrhea, and fever. Chronic appendicitis is
marked by frequently recurring or persistent dull pain in the right
lower abdomen, usually induced or aggravated by exertion or
improper diet, and accompanied by distending pain or discomfort in
the upper abdomen, constipation, or frequent defecation. There is
often a history of acute appendicitis.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies appendicitis as
abdominal pain, and considers it to be caused primarily by
exogenous cold or improper diet resulting in obstruction of qi and
122
blood in the abdomen.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute appendicitis, severe tenderness
on Appendix and Abdomen; for chronic appendicitis, severe
tenderness on abdomen and whitish spotty eminence with scleroma
on Appendix.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qt to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Appen:dix, Abdomen: correspond to the affected region of the
body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi to relieve pain.
Spleen, Stomach: regulate the spleen and stomach.
San Jiao, Center of Superior Concha: regulate the flow of qi to
relieve abdominal pain.
Ear Shenmen, Sympathesis: main points for relieving pain.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle relieves inflammation and pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is suitable for treating
acute simple appendicitis and chronic appendicitis.

6. Cholelithiasis

Cholelithiasis, or gall stones , is a commonly seen acute

abdomenal condition. The formation of stones in the gallbladder or
biliary ducts is due primarily to cholestasis, infection of the biliary
tract, or metabolic disturbance of cholesteral. It occurs mainly in
123
middle-aged people, and more often in females than in males.
There is usually a history of frequently recurring and persistent
dull pain in the upper abdomen. During remission, there may be no
symptoms or mild dull pain in the right upper abdomen; during the
active stage, manifestations differ according to the location of the
stones. The most common symptom is paroxysmal colicky pain in
the right upper abdomen radiating to the right shoulder. Other
commonly seen symptoms include aversion to greasy food, nausea,
vomiting, bitter taste in the mouth, poor appetite, and fever.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies cholelithiasis as
hypochondriac pain. It is considered to be caused by mental injury,
exogenous damp-heat, or overindulgence in greasy food, leading to
stagnation of the liver-qi and dampness and heat in the liver and
gallbladder.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness, spotty eminence, or
nodular scleroma on Pancreas &. Gallbladder.
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver and gallbladder to
relieve pain; dispel damp-heat to discharge stones.
Auricular points:
Pancreas &. Gallbladder, Liver, Chest, Abdomen, Thoracic
Vertebrae: correspond to the affected regions of the body. Locate
positive points; tape both frontal and· dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
San Jiao: dispels damp-heat and relieves pain.
Sympathesis, Subcortex: regulate the nervous system to
alleviate spasm of the smooth muscles and relieve pain.
Duodenum: promotes discharge of stones.
Ear Shenmen, Root of Ear Vagus: alleviate spasm of the
smooth muscles to relieve pain.
124
 Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipu,lation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular self-massage or pressure can also
be practiced when pain occurs, or twice a day during the remission
stage. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the pain of
cholelithia'sis and improve other symptoms as well. Discharge of
the stones depends upon their size, shape, and location.

7. Cystitis

Cystitis is an acute bacterially caused inflammation of the

internal wall of the urinary bladder. Acute cystitis is marked by
sudden onset of lower abdominal pain and frequent, dripping, and
painful urination, accompanied by macroscopic blood in the urine
and pyuria. Frequency of urination is higher during the day than at
night. The manifestations of chronic cystitis are similar to or
milder than those of acute cystitis, and recur frequently.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies cystitis as a Lin
syndrome, and considers it to be caused by exogenous or
endogenous damp-heat which descends and accumulates in the
Lower ]iao.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute cystitis, severe tenderness on
Urinary Bladder and Urethra; for chronic cystitis, severe
tender~ or nodular scleroma on Urinary Bladder.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and remove dampness.
Auricular points:
Urinary Bladder, Urethra, Abdomen, Pelvis: correspond to
125
the affected regions of the body. Locate positive points; tape both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Kidney: tonifies the kidneys to drain dampness.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to transport and transform
water and dampness.
San Jiao: dispels heat and removes dampness.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating cystitis.

8. Epididymitis

Epididymitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the

epididymides caused primarily by urogenital infection spreading to
the epididymides through the spermatic ducts. Acute epididymides
occurs mainly in young people and adults, usually unilaterally. It is
marked by sudden swelling and sinking pain in the affected testicle,
the pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin. Accompanying
general symptoms include chills and fever. Chronic epididymides is
marked by persistent dull pain and sinking sensation in the affected
testicle, with periodic acute attacks. There is usually a history of
chronic prostatitis, acute epididymitis, or long-term indwelling
catheter.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, epididymitis ts
126
caused primarily by exogenous or endogenous damp-heat which
descends and accumulates in the Lower Jiao.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Internal Genitals
and External Genitals.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat.
Auricular points:
Internal Genitals, External Genitals: correspond to the
affected a~ea of the body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal
and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Pelvis, Abdomen: relieve pain in the lower abdomen.
Liver: The liver meridian connects with the external genitals,
so Liver is taped to activate the liver meridian qi.
San Jiao: dispels damp-heat.
Kidney: The kidneys open into both the external genitals and
the anus, so Kidney is taped to dispel damp-heat.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Apex of Antitragus: relieve
inflammation.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating epididymitis. This method is also suitable for treating
spermophlebectasia and hydrocele of the tunica vaginalis.

9. Prostatitis

Prostatitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the prostate

gland. Acute prostatitis occurs mainly in young people and adults
127
and is marked by frequent, painful, or dripping urination, sudden
high fever, chills, and distending or severe pain in the lumbosacral
region and perinium. It is usually caused by overindulgence in
alcohol, excessive sexual activity or suppression of ejaculation,
injury of the perinium, acute urethritis, or the common cold.
Chronic prostatitis is marked by increased frequency of urination,
burning sensation during urination, turbid terminal urine, and
sinking pain in the lumbosacral region, perinium, and scrotum. It
may be accompanied by sexual dysfunction including pain during
ejaculation or impotence, and neurosism. There is usually a history
o£ ?""te prostatitis.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies prostatitis as a Lin
syndrome. It is considered to be caused primarily by accumulation
of damp-heat in the Lower }iao leading to stagnation of qi.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Angle of Superior
Concha and Urethra.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat to regulate the flow
of qi and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Angle of Superior Concha, Urethra: correspond to the
affected region of the body. Tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
Kidney, San }iao: drain water to dispel damp-heat.
Liver: The liver meridian passes through the external genitals
and lower abdomen, so raping Liver activates this meridian and
relieves pain.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
128
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat and relieves pain.
Auxiliary points: For pain in the lower abdomen, Abdomen
and Pelvis are added; for pain in the lumbosacral region,
Lumbosacral Vertebrae is added; for pain in the perineum and
external genitals, External Genitals is added; for sexual
dysfunction, Internal Genitals is added; for neurosism, Anterior
Lobe is added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating prostatitis.

10. Hyperplasia of the Prostate

Hyperplasia of the prostate is a common problem of older

men, and is also a common cause of such disorders as retention of
unne, urinary tract infection, and uremia. It is marked in the
initial stage by frequent urination, more severe at night and
worsening over time. As the condition develops, difficulty in
urination, weak urinary stream, urinary stuttering, or interrupted
urination may occur. In the advanced stage, there may be acute
urinary retention or incontinence.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies hyperplasia of the
prostate as a Lin syndrome. It is considered to be caused by
deficiency of the kidney-qi and accumulation of damp-heat in the
Lower Jiao. The combination' of deficient antipathogenic qi and
excessive pathogens results in the protracted course of the disease.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or nodular scleroma on
Angle of Superior Concha and Urethra.
129
 Therapeutic principle: Tonify the kidney-qi and drain water.
Auricular points:
Angle of Superior Concha, Urethra: correspond to the
affected region of the body.
Kidney: tonifies the kidney-qi to drain urine.
San ]iao: drains water and dispels damp-heat.
Liver: The liver meridian passes through the external genitals
and lower abdomen, so Liver is taped to activate this meridian and
promote drainage of water.
Endocrine, Subcortex: regulate endocrine and nervous
functions.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy can control and alleviate the
symptoms of hyperplasia of the prostate, especially in the initial
stage, but a radical cure is difficult to achieve.

11. Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids refers to venous masses caused by backflow

obstruction of the hemorrhoidal veins resulting in dilation and
varicosity of the submucosal venous plexus of the blind end of the
rectum and the submucosal venous plexus of the anal· canal. It is
classified into three types according to the location of the venous
:rp.asses. Internal hemorrhoids are marked by bleeding during
defecation, prolapse of the hemorrhoids, or severe pain when
complicated by infection.
External hemorrhoids are marked by the sensation of a foreign
body in the anus, and severe pain aggravated by· defecation,
walking, or sitting, any of which may cause thrombosis or splitting
130
of the hemorrhoidal veins to occur. Mixed hemorrhoids have
characteristics of both internal and external hemorrhoids, but the
condition is more severe than either alone.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, hemorrhoids are
caused primarily by overindulgence in spicy or greasy food, or by
protracted diarrhea or constipation, resulting in stagnation of qi
and blood ~nd subsequent injury of the collaterals of the anus.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or nodular scleroma on
Anus and Rectum.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi and blood to
relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Anus, Rectum: correspond to the affected regions of the
body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation ..
Large Intestine: improves transportation m the Large
Intestine.
Liver: regulates the flow of qi and blood.
'
Spleen: controls the flow of blood in the meridians and
collaterals to arrest bleeding.
Urinary Bladder: The urinary bladder meridian connects with
the anus, so Urinary Bladder is taped to activate the meridian qi
and improve blood circulation to relieve pain.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and circulatory functions.
Ear Shenmen: relieves inflammation and pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
131
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. This method is also suitable for treating
prolapse of the anus, anal fissure, and eczema of the anus.

12. Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a bacterially caused suppurative inflammation

of the renal pelvis and adjacent parenchyma. It is classified into
acute and chronic types. The acute type is marked by sudden onset
of pain in the lumbar and lower abdominal regions, accompanied by
frequent, painful, and dripping urination. General symptoms
include chills, fever, headache, heaviness of the body, lassitude,
poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting. The chronic type usually
develops from the acute. It is marked during onset by symptoms
similar to or milder than those of acute pyelonephritis, including
frequent, painful, and dripping urination, and pain in the lumbar
and lower abdominal regions. During the remission stage, there are
no obvious symptoms.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies pyelonephritis as a Lin
syndrome, and considers it to be caused primarily by exogenous or
endogenous damp-heat which descends and accumulates in the
Lower }iao. Mainly affected are the kidneys and urinary bladder.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute pyelonephritis, severe
tenderness on Kidney and Urinary Bladder; for chronic
pyelonephritis, severe tenderness and depression with long
recovery time when palpated on Kidney and Urinary Bladder.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and remove dampness.
Auricular points:
Kidney, Urinary Bladder, Ureter, Urethra, Lumbosacral
132
Vertebrae: all correspond to the affected regions of the body.
Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to transport and transform
dampness.
San Jiao: dispels heat and removes dampness.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: tranquilizes the mind and relieves pain.
Apex of the Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is effective for treating
both acute and chronic pyelonephritis, but extended treatment
should be given in order to consolidate the results.

13. Urinary Stones

Urinary stones occur in the urinary tract, including the

kidneys, urinary bladder, ureters, and urethra. Nephrolithiasis,
or kidney stones, are marked by persistent dull pain or paroxysmal
colicky pain in the lumbar region, radiating to the back and lower
abdomen. Ureterolithiasis, or urter stones~ are marked by
paroxysmal, severe, colicky pain, radiating downward along the
ureters to the perineum and medial side of the thighs, usually
accompanied by restlessness, nausea, vomiting, and profuse
perspiration. Both kidney and ureter stones occur primarily in men
twenty to forty years old. Usually only one side is affected. The
presence of stones in the urethra or bladder is marked by dripping
133
or interrupted urination, accompanied by pain and blood in the
urine. The pain may radiate to the perineum and glans of the penis
or clitoris. Acute retention of urine may occur if there are stones
blocking the urethra. Bladder and urethral stones occur primarily
in boys younger than ten years old and older men with prostate
hyperplagia.
Urinary stones are referred to as Stone Lin in traditional
Chinese medicine. They are considered to be caused by
accumulation of damp-heat in the Lower Jiao which consumes the
yin fluid of the body and vaporizes the urine, resulting in the
formation of stones.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the affected organs.
Therapeutic principle: Promote urination to relieve pain and
discharge stones.
Auricular points:
Kidney, Ureter, Urinary Bladder, Urethra: correspond to the
affected organs. Select points according to the location of the
stones; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Abdomen, Lumbosacral Vertebrae: relieve pain in the lower
abdomen and lumbosacral region.
San }iao: promotes the passage of water to dispel damp-heat
and discharge stones.
Sympathesis: relieves colicky pain in the internal organs.
Ear Shenmen : relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
134
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular selfmassage or pressure can be
applied when colicky pain occurs, or twice a · day to prevent
attacks. Auricular therapy is very effective for alleviating the pain
of urinary stones; in many cases the pain is relieved by the end of
the treatment session. The discharge of stones depends primarily
on their shape and location.

14. Seminal Emission

Seminal emission refers to ejaculation in the male without

sexual intercourse. Seminal emission that occurs while asleep and
dreaming is called oneirogmus; spontaneous seminal emission that
occurs while awake is called spermatorrhea. It is normal for
healthy men to experience oneirogmus several times a month, but
several times a week or every night is considered excessive.
Excessive seminal emission is usually accompanied by weakness and
soreness of the back and knees, dizziness, tinnitus, lassitude, and
poor memory.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, oneirogmus 1s
caused by mental InJury or excessive masturbation leading to
imbalance between the heart and kidneys. It is marked by seminal
emission while dreaming, insomnia, restlessness, palpitation, dry
mouth, night sweating, and the sensation of heat in the palms and
soles. Spermatorrhea is considered to be caused by excessive sexual
activity or weak constitution after protracted illness, leading to
deficiency of the kidney essence. It is marked by spontaneous
seminal emission while awake, accompanied by soreness and
weakness of the back and knees, dizziness, tinnitus, poor memory,
135
spontaneous sweating, and coldness of the extremities.
Auricular diagnosis: Deep depression with long recovery time
when palpated on Kidney and Internal Genitals.
Therapeutic principle: Harmonize the heart and kidneys and
tonify the kidneys to arrest sperm.
Auricular points:
K~dney: tonifies -the kidneys to arrest sperm.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi to regulate the emotions.
Spleen, · Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to
increase acquired essence.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous function.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: calm the mind.
Auxiliary point: For seminal emission while dreaming, Heart
and Anterior Lobe are added.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular self-massage and pressure may also be
practiced twice a day. This method is also suitable for treating
premature ejaculation.

15. Impotence

Impotence is a common male sexual dysfunction caused by

functional disturbance of the central nervous system or organic
disease. It is marked by inability to achieve or maintain an erection,
making sexual intercourse problematic. Other manifestations
include dizziness, blurred vision, lassitude, listlessness, insomnia,
and night or spontaneous sweating.
According to traditional Chinese medicine , impotence is caused
primarily by excessive masturbation or excessive sexual activity
136
leading to decline of fire from the Gate of Life, or by mental injury
which damages the heart and spleen or disturbs the kidneys.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate tenderness or whitish
depression with long recovery time when palpated on Internal
Genitals and External Genitals.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the kidneys and strengthen
yang.
Auricul~r points:
Internal Genitals, External Genitals: correspond to the affected
regions of the body.
Kidney: The kidneys open into the external genitals and
dominate reproduction, so Kidney is taped to activate the kidney-
yang.
Liver: The liver meridian connects with the external genitals,
so Liver is taped to activate the liver meridian and regulate the flow
of qi and blood.
Heart, Spleen: strengthen the spleen and nourish the heart to
calm the mind.
Midpoint of Rim, Endocrine: regulate endocrine function.
Subcortex, Forehead: harmonize excitement and inhibition of
the central nervous system.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular self-massage and pressur~ can also be
practiced twice a day. Auricular therapy is very suitable for treating
impotence because of its effectiveness in regulating functional
disturbance of the central nervous system.

137
 16. Cervical Spondylopathy

Cervical spondylopathy is caused by degeneration · and

hyperosteogeny of the cervical intervertebral discs, resulting in
compression of the cervical root nerves or spinal cord. It occurs
primarily in people over forty years old. There is often a history of
cervical trauma, strain, or stiff neck. Clinically, cervical
spondylopathy is marked by persisent stabbing pain in the cervical
region and shoulder, often radiating to one or both arms and
wors~ning at night. It is aggravated by backwa,.rd bending of the
neck and coughing, and alleviated by lying· down or lifting the
shoulders. Additional manifestations include dizziness, nausea,
vomiting, numbness of the forearms and fingers, and pain in the
anterior pectoral region.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, cer.vical
spondylopathy is caused by internal deficiency of the liver and
kidneys and external trauma or invasion by wind-cold or wind-
damp. The combination of internal and external factors results in
obstruction of qi and blood and insufficient nourishment of the
muscles and bones.
Auricular diagnosis: In the initial stage, severe tenderness on
Cervical Vertebrae; in the advanced stage, streaky eminence or
nodular scleroma on Cervical Vertebrae.
Therapeutic principle: Tonify the liver and kidneys; clear and
activate the meridians and collaterals.
Auricular points:
Cervical Vertebrae: corresponds to the affected area of the
body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
138
to increase stimulation.
Liver, Kidney: The liver nourishes the tendons and the kidneys
the bones, so Liver and Kidney are taped to strengthen the tendons
and bones.
Ear Shenmen : main point for relieving pain.
Auxiliary points: For dizziness, Occiput is added; for nausea
and vomitin~, Cardia is added; for numbness and pain of the arms
and fingers, positive points on the scaphoid fossa are added.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy can effectively alleviate the
symptoms of cervical spondylopathy, but achieving a radical cure is
difficult.

17. Costal Chondritis

Costal chondritis is a chronic nonspecific inflammation of the

costal cartilage. It occurs primarily in young people and adults,
and is usually induced by chest trauma or infection of the
respiratory tract. Usually affected is the costal cartilage of the
'
second and third ribs. Manifestations include swelling and
eminence of the affected costal cartilage and persistent dull pain
aggravated by coughing, deep breathing, or movement of the chest
or shoulders. The pain may spontaneously disappear after
approximately one month, but recurs easily.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies costal chondritis as
hypochondriac
... pain, and considers it to be caused by trauma,
exogenous pathogens, or mental injury, which result in stagnation
of qi and blood in the chest and hypochondriac region.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Chest and Thoracic
139
Vertebrae.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to alleviate swelling and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Chest, Thoracic Vertebrae: con-::spond to the affected area of
the body. Locate posititve points; tape both frontal and dorsal
surfaces to increase stimulation. Sensitive points are usually found
between Thoracic Vertebrae and the scaphoid fossa.
Liver, Pancreas &. Gallbladder: Both liver and gallbladder
meridians pass through the chest and hypochondriac region, so
these points are taped to clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals.
Kidney: The kidneys nourish the bones and the kidney
meridian passes 'through the chest, so Kidney is taped to activate
the kidney meridian , nourish the bones , and relieve pain.
Ear Shenmen: main point for relieving pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating costal chondritis.

18. Scapulohumeral Periarthritis

Scapulohumeral periarthritis · ts a chronic retrograde

inflammation of the soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and
joint capsules, peripheral to the shoulder joint. It occurs primarily
in people above fifty years old, and more often in females than in
males. It is marked by pain and limited abduction, outward
rotation, backward extension, and raising of the shoulder joint. The
pain may radiate to the neck and upper arm, and lessens during the
140
day and worsens at night. In severe cases, the shoulder joint may
become completely frozen, with resulting atrophy of the shoulder
muscles.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, scapulohumeral
periarthritis is caused by internal deficiency of qi and blood and
external invasion by wind-cold, trauma, or strain. The combination
of internal and external factors results in obstruction of qi and
blood in the meridians and insufficient nourishment of the tendons
and muscles.
Auricular diagnosis: In the initial stage, severe tenderness on
Shoulder; in the advanced stage, patchy eminence or streaky
scleroma on Shoulder.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to relieve pain; tonify the qi and blood to nourish the
tendons.
Auricular points:
Shoulder, Clavicle: correspond to affected area of the body.
Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation.
Small Intestine, Large Jntestine, San ]iao: The meridians of
these three organs distribute to the shoulder, so these points are
taped to activate the meridians and relieve pain.
Liver ,Spleen ,Kidney: These three organs nourish the tendons,
so these points are taped to nourish the tendons and muscles and
lubricate the shoulder joint.
Ear Shenmen: main point for pain relief.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, concentrating
on the affected side, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute one
course. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the pain of
141
scapulohumeral periarthritis, but extended treatment should be
given to improve movement of the shoulder joint.

19. External Humeral Epicondylitis

External humeral epicondylitis, commonly called tennis elbow,

ts caused by sprain or strain of the base of the carpal extensor
muscle. It occurs mainly in young people and adults; carpenters and
tennis players are at especially high risk for this condition. External
humeral epicondylitis is marked by pain on the lateral side of the
elbow joint, usually radiating to the lateral side of the forearm or
shoulder and aggravated when making a fist or wringing a towel.
There is severe tenderness on the external humeral epicondyle, but
no sweliing or impairment of joint movement.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, external humeral
epicondylitis is caused primarily by strain of the· elbow leading to
localized obstruction of qi and blood.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Elbow.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals.
Auricular points:
Elbow: corresponds to the affected area of the body. Locate
tender points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
San Jiao: The San Jiao meridian distributes to the lateral
humeral epicondyle, so San Jiao is taped to clear and activate the
meridians and collaterals.
Liver: The liver nourishes the tendons, so Liver is taped to
strengthen the t.endons.
142
 Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating lateral humeral epicondylitis; in many cases
two or three treatments are sufficient to relieve the pain. However,
several additional treatments should be give to consolidate the
results.

20. Stiff Neck

Stiff neck refers to rigidity, pain, and-limited movement of the

neck due to improper sleeping position, strain, sprain, or attack by
wind-cold. It usually occurs in the morning upon arising. It is
marked by rigidity of the neck and pain which usually radiates to
the homolateral shoulder and upper arm, accompanied by muscular
tension of the neck, severe tenderness on the medial angle of the
scapula, and impairment of movement of ,the neck.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, stiff neck is caused
by obstruction of qi and blood in the meridians due to invasion of
the neck by wind-cold, improper sleepiDJg position, or use of an
overly thick pillow. Usually affected are the small intestine,
gallbladder, and urinary bladder meridians.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Neck.
Therapeutic principle: Activate the· meridians to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Neck: corresponds to the affected region of the body; tape both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Liver, Spleen: The liver nourishes the tendons and the spleen
the muscles, so Liver and Spleen are taped to alleviate pain of the
143
 tendons and muscles.
Small Intestine, Pancreas & Gallbladder, Urinary Bladder: the
meridians of these three organs pass through the neck, so these
points are taped to activate their corresponding meridians.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricuiar therapy can
effectively relieve the pain and rigidity of stiff neck.

21. Acute Soft Tissue Injury

Acute soft tissue injury refers to sprain or contusion of the soft

tissues, including the muscles, tendons ,ligaments ,or joint capsules.
It usually occurs on the shoulder, elbow, wrist, fingers, lumbus,
hip, knee, or ankle. Manifestations include swelling, pain, and
impaired joint movement.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acute soft tissue
injury is caused by external trauma or improper motion resulting in
.damage to the tendons and meridians, with subsequent localized
. obstruction of qi and- blood.
Auri<:ular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the injured regions.
Therapeutic principle: Activate the meridian~ to alleviate
swelling and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Area:- corresponding to the injured regions: regulate the flow
of qi and blood. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal
surface to increase stimulation.
Ear Shenmen: main point for relieving pain.
144
 Liver: nourishes the tendons and regulates the flow of qi to
relieve pain.
Spleen: nourishes the muscles; produces and reinforces qi and
blood.
Heart: improves the circulation of blood.
Use auricular taping vvith strong manipulation, once every
other day. Auricular therapy is very effective for treating acute soft
tissue injury. In many cases one treatment is sufficient to relieve the
acute symptoms.

22. Lumbar Muscle Strain

Lumbar muscle strain refers to chronic lower back pain.· It is

marked by intermittent or persistent soreness, pain, and heaviness
in the lumbar region, alleviated after appropriate movement and
aggravated by extended sitting or standing or cold and ramy
weather. There is usually a history of acute lumbar sprain, work
involving extensive standing or bending, or invasion by wind-cold
or cold-damp.
According to traditional Chinese medicine; lumbar muscle
strain is caused by external trauma, or by internal deficiency of
antipathogenic qi and external invasion by wind-cold or cold-damp,
resulting in obstruction of qi and blood in the meridians.
Auricular diagnosis: :severe tenderness on Lumbosacral
Vertebrae and Kidney.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce anti pathogenic qi a·nd clear
and activate the meridians and collaterals.
Auricular points:
Lumbosacral Vertebrae 1 The most tender point is usually
145
located between the crest of the antihelix and the scaphoid fossa.
Tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Kidney: The kidney is connected with the lumbus, so Kidney
is taped to strengthen tht lumbus.
Urinary Bladder: The urinary bladder meridian distributes to
the lumbus, so Urinary Bladder. is taped to clear and activate the
meridians and collaterals.
Liver, Spleen: nourish and strengthen the tendons and
muscles.
Ear Shenmen: main point for relieving pain.
Use auricular taping, twice a week .. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular self-massage and pressure can be practiced
twice a day as well. Auricular therapy is very effective for treating
lumbar muscle strain.

23. Postconcussional Syndrome

Concussion of the brain is caused by cephalic trauma resulting

in temporary loss of consciousness, with poor memory, headache,
dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness present after recovery.
In some cases, distending or pulsating headache or a girdling
sensation in the head may persist for up to three months after
trauma. Other symptoms may include dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus,
hypomnesis; and insomnia.
Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes postconcussional
syndrome as headache, vertigo, or insomnia, and considers it to be
caused by cephalic trauma leading to stagnation of qi and blood and
imbalance of yin and yang.
Auricular Diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Subcortex and areas
146
corresponding to the injuried regions.
Therapeutic Principle: Regulate the movement of qi and blood
and harmonize yin and yang.
Auricular Points:
Areas corresponding to the injuried regions: Tape both frontal
and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation:
Kidney: tonifies the kidney to stimulate the production of
marrow.
Liver: soothes the liver-qi and circulates the movement of
blood to relieve pain and stop dizziness.
Ear Shenmen,Subcortex: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blooding-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle calms the mind.
Auxiliary Points: For tinnitus, Internal Ear is added; for nausea
and ·vomiting, Cardia and Stomach are added; for insomnia, Anterior
Lobe is added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. The sooner treatment is given, the better the
results will be.

24. Facial Spasm

Facial spasm is an involuntary, paroxysmal spasm of the

unilateral facial muscles. Although some cases are sequela of facial
paralysis, most do not have a clear and definite cause. The spasm
usually originates in the orbicular muscle of the eye and gradually
spreads to its homolateral facial muscles. Spasm of the angle of the
mouth is most apparent. The spasm may spontaneously stop after
147
sleep, but in some cases it persists.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, facial spasm is
caused either by exogenous wind-cold which affects the stomach
and large intestine meridians and obstructs the flow of qi and
blood, by mental injury which disturbs the flow of qi in the
meridians, or by yin deficiency of the liver and kidney which
produces endogenous wind.
-Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or patchy eminence or
scleroma on Cheek.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind to arrest spasm.
Auricular points:-
Cheek, Eye, Mouth: correspond to the affected areas of the
body. Tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Large Intestine, Stomach: Both the large intestine and stomach
meridians distribute to the face ,so these points are taped to activate
the meridians to expel wind and arrest spasm.
Spleen: nourishes the facial muscles to arrest spasm.
San Jiao: The mixed branches of the glossopharyngeal , vagus ,
and facial ner_ves pass through this auricular area, so San Jiao is
taped to alleviate facial spasm.
Subcortex: tranquilizes the mind.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: calm the mind.
Auxiliary points: For facial spasm caused by mental injury,
Liver and Gallbladder are added; for facial spasm caused by yin
deficiency of the liver and kidney, Liver and Kidney are added.
Use auricular taping, concentrating on the affected side, twice
a week. Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy
can effectively relieve facial spasm by regulating excitiation and
inhibition of both the central and autonomic nervous systems.
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 25. Intercostal Neuralgia

Intercostal neuralgia refers to pain in one or more intercostal

spaces caused by inflammation of the intercostal nerves. It is caused
mainly by pleuritis, pneumonia, costal chondritis, herpes zoster, or
chest trauma resulting in inflammation of the intercostal nerves. It
is marked· py persistent stabbing pain along the pathway of the
affected intercostal nerves, radiating to the lumbar region ·of the
affected side and aggravated by coughing or deep breathing.
Localized hyperesthesia and tenderness are also present. ·
Intercostal neuragia is classified as ,hypochondriac pain in
traditional Chinese medicine. It· is considered to be caused by
stress, trauma, or exogenous pathogens which result in stagnation
of qi and blood in the chest and hypochondriac region.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Chest and Thoracic
Vertebrae.
Therapeutic Principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Chest, Thoracic Vertebrae: correspond to the affected region
of the body. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal
surfaces to increase stimulation.
Liver, Pancreas & Gasllbladder: The liver and gallbladder
meridians pass through the chest and hypochondriac region, so
these points are taped to clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals. ·
Ear Shenmen, Subcortex: tranquilize the mind to relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
149
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the
pain of intercostal neuralgia.

26. TrigePl.inal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralg'i~ refers to transient paroxysmal megalgia

of the trigeminal nerve pathway. It occcurs mainly in adults and
more often in females than in males. Usually affected are the second
and third branches of the trigeminal nerve; the first branch is rarely
involved. Trigeminal neuralgia is marked by sudden onset of
stabbing or burning pain along the pathway of the affected nerve,
usually evoked by speaking, chewing, washing the face, brushing
the teeth, catching cold, or touching "trigger points" on the face.
Other manifestations include facial spasm, salivation, and
lacrimation. The pain usually spontaneously disappears after
several seconds or minutes, with no discomfort between episodes.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies trigeminal neuralgia as
toothache and headache. It is-"·considered to be caused either by
invasion of wind-cold or wind-heat or by flaring-up of the liver-
fire, obstructing the flow of qi and blood and resulting in pain in
the teeth and face.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or patchy eminence on
Cheek, Jaw, and Teeth.
Therapeutic principle: Activate the meridians to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Cheek,Jaw, Teeth :correspond to the affected area of the body.
150
Tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
San Jiao: dispels heat and relieves pain.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous function.
External Ear, External Nose: correspond to the location of the
trigeminal nerve pathway.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three edged-needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Auxiliary points: For trigeminal neuralgia caused by flaring-up
of the liver-fire, Liver and Gallbladder are added; for trigeminal
neuralgia caused by flaring-up of the stomach-fire, Stomach and
Large Intestine are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, concentrating on the affected
side, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular
therapy can effectively relieve the pain of trigeminal neuralgia; in
some cases the pain may be alleviated by the end of the treatment
session.

27. Scia tic a

Sciatica is a commonly occuring lumbocrural pain frequently

seen in clinical practice. It is marked by stabbing or burning pain

.
radiating along the pathway of the sciatic nerve, aggravated by
walking, bending, qr coughing. Usually only one side is affected.
Sciatica is classified into primary and secondary types. Primary
sciatica is caused by infection affecting the sciatic nerve itself;
secondary sciatica is caused by disease or disorder of the tissues
adjacent to the sciatic nerve, such as prolapse of the lumbar
151
intervertebral disc, sacroiliitis, coxitis, or pelvic infection.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies sciatica as a Bi
syndrome. It is considered to be caused either by exogenous wind-
cold or cold-damp, or by trauma resulting in stagnation of qi and
blood in the meridians. Usually affected are the meridians of the
gallbladder and the urinary bladder.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Sciatic Nerve,
Lumbosacral Vertebrae, and Buttock.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Sciatic Nerve, Lumbosacral Vertebrae, Buttock: correspond to
the affected regions of the body. Locate positive points; tape both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Urinary Bladder, Gallbladder: clear and activate the meridians
to relieve pain.
Kidney: The kidneys are internally and externally connected
with the urinary bladder and the lumbus, so Kidney is taped to
reinforce the kidney-qi and strengthen the lumbus.
Ear Shenmen: main point for pain relief.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy IS
especially effective for treating primary sciatica. In cases of
secondary sciatica, treatment of the primary cause should be
undertaken concurrently.

28. Calcaneodynia

Calcaneodynia Is a common manifestation of vanous heel

152
disorders, including calcaneal spur, calcaneal bursitis, epiphysisis
of the calcaneum, and calcanei tis. It is marked by pain in the
calcaneal region, aggravated by walking or standing. There is
usually a tender point on the tuberosity of the calcaneus, but 'no
redness or swelling. Calcaneodynia occurs mainly in adults and
older people, and more often in females than in males.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, calcaneodynia 1s
caused primarily by deficiency of the kidneys due to age, resulting
in insufficient nourishment of the bones.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Heel and Kidney or
nodular scleroma on Heel.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the kidneys to nourish the
bones and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Heel: corresponds to the affected region of the body. Tape both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Kidney: tonifies the kidney-essence to nourish the bones.
Liver: tonifies the liver-blood to reinforce the kidney essence.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatment constitute one course. Auricular therapy can
effectively relieve pain of the heel.

29. Phantom Limb Pain

Phantom limb pam occurs primarily in adult amputees who

experience severe burning or stabbing pain at the site of the
amputated limb. Analgesics such as morphine or dilantin are
ineffective in many cases. Phantom limb pain may be caused by
153
post-amputation formation of neuromae which result in functional
disorder of the central nervous system.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the painful area of the body.
Therapeutic principle: tranquilize and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the painful areas of the body: Tape
both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Subcortex: regulates the central nervous function.
Ear Shenmen: main point for pain relief.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle tranquilizes and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Auricular therapy
is very effective for relieving phantom limb pain.

30. Erythomelagia

Erythomelagia is a problem of the capillary tips caused by

vagotonia. It occurs mainly in winter and more often in females
than in males. It is marked by paroxysmal burning or stabbing pain
and redness of the extremities and aversion to heat' and is
aggravated at night, by walking, or by exposure to heat. There may
be mild numbness and pain during the remission stage. The feet are
affected much more often than the hands.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies erythomelagia as a Bi
syndrome. It is considered to be caused by exogenous cold leading
to stagnation of the qi and blood and their subsequent
transformation into fire.
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 Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the affected regions of the body.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi and blood and
dispel heat to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions of the body: Locate
positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Heart, Liver, Lung: improve the circulation of qi and blood.
Sympathesis, Subcortex :regulate the function of the autonomic
nervous system to harmonize vasomotricity.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize and relieve pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the
symptoms of erythomelagia and also treat the cause.

31. Thromboangiitis Obliterans

Thromboangiitis obliterans refers to chronic, progressive, and

segmental inflammation of the arteries and veins of the entire body.
It occurs mostly in young people and adults, primarily in males.
Usually affected are the lower extremities. There is frequently a
history of long-term smoking, trauma, mental injury, or invasion
of the body by cold or dampness. Thromboangiitis obliterans is
marked in the initial stage by numbness and coldness of the
extremities, fixed pain, and intermittent claudication. In the
155
intermediate and advanced stages, there is persistent severe pain
worsening at night, myoatrophy, and black pigmentation or dry or
moist necrosis of the affected extremities.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, thromboangiitis
obliterans is caused by exogenous cold or dampness, trauma, or
mental injury, which lead to stagnation of qi and blood and
subsequent insufficient·nourishment of the muscles and skin.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on areas corresponding
to the location of the affected region.
Therapeutic principle: Warm and activate the meridians and
collaterals to expel cold and relieve pain.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected region of the body: Locate
positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Heart, Lung: improve circulation of qi and blood.
Liver, Spleen: soothe the liver and strengthen the spleen to
tonify qi and blood.
Kidney: reinforces the kidney-yang to warm the meridians.
Sympathesis, Subcortex: harmonize vasomotricity to improve
peripheral circulation.
Use· auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Ten treatments constitute one course. Auricular therjipy can
effectively relieve pain caused by thromboangiitis obliterans, but
extended treatment should be given in order to improve the
peripheral circulation. This method is also suitable for treating
thrombotic phlebitis.

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 32. Raynard's Disease

Raynard's disease is a disorder of the peripheral circulation

caused by spasm of the peripheral arterioles. It occurs mainly in
young women and is usually induced by cold, mental injury, or
endocrine dysfunction. There may be a family history of Raynard's
disease as well. Raynard's disease is marked by symmetrical,
intermittent change in the color of the extremities, most often the
hands. During onset, the skin of the affected areas first becomes
pale and then deep purple in color, with accompanying localized
coldness,numbness,and stabbing pain. After several hours or days,
the skin becomes warm and its color returns to normal.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies Raynard's disease as a
Bi syndrome, and considers it to be caused primarily by exogenous
cold or mental injury which result in obstruction of qi and blood in
the meridians.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness and depression with
long recovery time when palpated on areas corresponding to the
affected regions of the body.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and stimulate the meridians and
collaterals.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions of the body: Locate
positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Liver, Heart, Lung: regulate the flow of qi and blood.
Spleen: reinforces the spleen-qi to improve blood circulation.
Sympathesis: alleviates spasm of the arterioles.
157
 Subcortex: regulates nervous, circulatory, and endocrine
functions.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle activates the meridians to relieve pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating Raynard's disease. It can not only alleviate the symptoms,
but also treat the cause.

158
 CHAPTER NINE
TREATMENT OF GYNECOLOGICAL
DISEASES AND DISORDERS

I. Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding refers to abnormal uterine

bleeding caused by gonadal dysfunction, but with no accompanying
organic or genital problems. It is classified into ovulatory and
anovulatory types. The anovulatory type occurs primarily during
adolescence or the climacteric, and is marked by irregular menstrual
cycles and periods with unusually profuse or scanty menstrual
blood. The ovulatory type occurs primarily during the reproductive
period of life, and is marked by short menstrual cycles ~ith long
periods, or normal length cycles and periods with unusually scanty
or profuse menstrual blood.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, dysfunctional
uterine bleeding is caused by mental injury, overeating of spicy
food, or exogenous cold, all of which may lead to irregular
menstruation.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Endocrine, Internal
Genitals and Pelvis.
Therapeutic Principle: Harmonize menstruation.
Auricular Points:
Internal Genitals, Pel vis, Abdomen: correspond to the affected
159
region. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
Liver, Spleen: soothe the liver and strengthen the spleen~
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim, Subcortex: regulate endocrine
function.
Auxiliary points. For abdominal pam, Ear Shenmen and
Occiput are added; for restlessness and irritability, Chest is added
and Apex of Ear is punctured with a three-edged needle to cause
bleeding.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.

2. Dy_smenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea is a commonly seen gynecological disorder,

marked by pain in the lower abdominal region before, during, or
after menstruation. It is classified into primary and secondary
types. In primary dysmenorrhea, lower abdominal pain commences
with onset of the menarche, with no abnormal genital conditions
present. It is caused primarily by hypoplasia of the uterus, mental
injury, or endocrine disorder. In secondary dysmenorrhea, lower
abdominal pain commences some time after the menarche; it is
caused primarily by organic problems of the internal genitals.
Manifestations of both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea
include cramps in the lower abdominal region during menstruation,
sometimes radiating to the vulva, anus, and back, and often
accompanied by nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, pale
complexion, and sweating and coldness of the hands and feet.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies dysmenorrhea into
160
excessive and deficient types. Excessive dysmenorrhea is caused
either by invasion of exogenous cold or dampness, or by mental
injury leading to stagnation of blood and qi in the uterus. It is
marked by distending pain in the lower abdomen aggravated by
pressure, and scanty, dotty menstrual blood. Deficient
dysmenorrhea is caused by deficiency of qi and blood or deficiency
of the liver and kidneys leading to inufficient nourishment of the
uterus. It is marked by dull pain in the lower abdomen relieved by
pressure, and scanty, dilute menstrual blood.
Auricular diagnosis: For excessive dysmenorrhea; severe
tenderness on Abdomen, Pelvis and Internal Genitals; for deficient
dysmenorrhea, deep whitish depression with long recovery time
when palpated on Spleen, Kidney and Abdomen.
Therapeutic principle: For excessive dysmenorrhea, regulate
the flow of qi and blood; for deficient dysmenorrhea, nourish the
uterus.
Auricular points:
· Internal Genitals, Pelvis, Abdomen: correspond to the affected
areas. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
Liver: The liver meridian passes through the lower abdomen,
so Liver is taped to activate the liver meridian qi and relteve pain.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim: regulate endocrine function.
Subcortex, Ear Shenmen: harmonize nervous function.
Auxiliary points: For excessive dysmenorrhea, strong
manipula.tion is used; for deficient dysmenorrhea, Spleen and
Kidney are added.
Use .auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Treatment is usually given between menstrual periods,
161
 providing obvious relief of pain during menstruation.

3. Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome refers to a senes of symptoms

occuring in some women. for several days before each menstrual
period. It is caused by dysfunction of the cerebral subcortex and the
autonomic nervous system and disturbance of the sex hormones.
Manifestations include nervousness, depression, anx~ety,

irritability, insomnia, headache; swelling of the hands, face, or feet;

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea , cramps or sinking pain in the lower
abdomen, lower back pain, and painful swelling, redness or fever
of the breasts.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, premenstrual
syndrome is caused primarily by mental injury leading to stagnation
of the liver qi and subsequent obstruction of the qi and blood.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Liver, Subcortex and
Internal Genitals.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the flow of qi and blood.
Auricular points:
Internal Genitals, Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim: regulate the
endocrine function.
Ear Shenmen, Subcortex: tranquilize the mind.
Liver: soothes the liver to promote the flow of qi and blood.
Auxiliary points: For mental symptoms, Heart is added; for
gastrointestinal problems, Stomach and Cardia are added; for lower
abdominal pain, Abdomen and· Pelvis are added; for painful swelling
of the breasts, Chest is added;
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
162

I
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular self-massage may
also be practiced twice a day.

4. Menopausal Syndrome

Menopausal syndrome .refers to a series of symptoms occuring

in some women during the climacteric. It is caused by gradual
decline of ovarian function leading to disturbance of the endocrine
and autonomic nervous systems. Women with anovarism due to
trauma, surgery, or pelvic radiotherapy may also experience this
condition. Manifestations are various. Cardiovascular symptoms
include intermittent flushing and sensations of heat on the face,
neck and chest' accompanied by profuse perspiration (popularly
known as "hot flashes"), palpitation, discomfort or pain in the
precardial region, formication, and numbness or pain of the
extremities. Me.ntal symptoms include restlessness, irritability,
anxiety, insomnia, and poor memory. Symptoms of metabolic
dysfunction, such as obesity and edema, may also occur.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, 'menopausal
syndrome is caused by gradual decline of the kidney yin or yang due
to age, leading to dysfunction of the Zangfu organs. Usually
affected are the liver, spleen, and heart.
Auricular diagnosis: Deep depression· when palpated on
Internal Genitals and Kidney.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate yin and yang.
Auricular· points:
Internal Genitals: corresponds to the affected region.
Kidney: strengthens the congenital essence to r~·gulate yin and
yang.
163
 Liver: soothes the liver qi.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim: regulate the endocrine function.
Subcortex, Ear Shenmen: regulate the nervous function.
Auxiliary points: For insomnia, Anterior Lobe and Occiput are
added; for palpitation, Heart and Chest are added; for edema, Spleen
and Central Superior Concha are added; for problems of the
extremities, Sympathesis and points corresponding to the affected
areas are added.
Use· auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular self-massage may also be practiced twice a
day.

5. Amenorrhea

Normal menstruation depends upon coordination among the

hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and 9varies producing periodic
changes of the endometria in response to changing levels of sex
hormones. Organic or functional disturbance of any aspect may
result in amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is classified into primary and
secondary types. Primary amenorrhea refers to lack of onset of
menstruation, even after eighteen years of age; secondary
amenorrhea refers to cessation of previously normal menstruation
for more than three months.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies amenorrhea into
excessive and deficient types. The excessive type is caused primarily
by stagnation of qi and blood and blockage by phlegm and
dampness; the deficient type is caused primarily by deficiency; of
' .
liver and kidney or qi and blood.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Internal Genitals,
164
Endocrine and Subcortex.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the circulation of qi and blood
to promote menstrual flow.
Auricular points:
Internal Genitals, Pelvis, Abdomen: correspond to the affected
region.
Subcortex, Midpoint of Rim, Endocrine: regulate the endocrine
function.
Kidney, Spleen: strengthen both congenital and acquired
essence.
Liver 1 regulates the flow of qi and blood.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy is very effecfive for treating
secondary amenorrhea.

6. Leukorrhagia

Leukorrhagia refers to abnormal changes of the vaginal

secretions. It is a common symptom of various diseases and
disorders of both the internal and external female genitals. Simple
leukorrhagia, with profuse, thin, clear vaginal discharge, occurs
mainly during the preovulatory phase, before or after the menstrual
period, during pregnancy, or after administration of estrogen.
Yellowish, sticky, strortg - smelling vaginal discharge occurs
primarily in the presence of inflammation of either the internal or
external genitals; bloody vaginal discharge occurs primarily in the
presence of senile vaginitis, cervical polyps, or tumors.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies ieukorrhagia into
excessive and deficient types. The excessive type is caused primarily
165
by invasion of damp-heat or toxic pathogens, or by downward flow
of damp-heat in the Liver meridian, and is marked by sticky,
yellowish, strong-smelling vaginal discharge. The deficient type is
caused primarily by deficiency of the spleen or kidney, resulting in
accumulation of dampness in the interior and its subsequent
downward flow, and is marked by profuse, thin, clear vaginal
discharge.
Auricular diagnosis: For excessive leukorrhagia, severe
tenderness on both Internal and External Genitals; for deficient
leukorrhagia, moderate tenderness and whitish depression with long
recovery time when palpated on Spleen.
Therapeutic principle :For excessive leukorrhagia, dispel damp-
heat; for deficient leukorrhagia, strengthen the spleen and kidneys
to eliminate dampness.
Auricular points :
Internal Genitals, External Genitals, Pelvis, Abdomen:
correspond to the affected region. Locate positive points; tape both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
San Jiao: drains water.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim, Subcortex: regulate endocrine
function.
Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve inflammation.
For excessive leukorrhea, Liver is added and Apex of Ear is
punctured with a three-edged needle to cause bleeding; for deficient
leukorrhea , Spleen and Kidney are added.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.

166
 7. Chronic Pelvic Inflammation

Chronic pelvic inflammation refers to chronic inflammation of

the internal genitals, pelvis, peritoneum, and pelvic connective
tissues. It usually develops from acute pel vic inflammation, and
there is often a history of sterility or menstrual disorder.
Manifestations include mild fever, fatigue, sinking pain in the
lower abdomen, lower back pain, and profuse vaginal discharge.
Traditional Chinese- medicine classifies chronic pelvic
inflammation as abdominal pain, and considers it to be caused by
exogenous or endogenous damp-heat accumulating in the Lower
Jiao.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness, streaky scleroma, or
desquammation on the triangular fossa.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat.
Auricular points:
Pelvis, Internal Genitals, A~domen: correspond to the affected
area. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
San Jiao, Spleen: eliminate dampness.
Liver: The liver meridian distributes to the lower abdominal
region, so Liver is taped to activate the liver meridian qi.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: relieves pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels damp-heat.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
167
constitute one course. This method is also suitable for treating
acute pelvic inflammation, vulvitis, bartholinitis, vaginitis, and
cervicitis.

8. Prolapse of the Uterus

Prolapse of the uterus refers to descent of the uterus from the

normal position, with the cervix dropping to below the level of the
ischial spine. In extreme cases, the entire uterus may extrude out of
the vaginal opening. Prolapse of the uterus is usually accompanied
by prolapse of both the anterior and posterior vaginal walls. In the
initial stage, the prolapsed uterus may spontaneously return to
normal when a horizontal position is assumed. But with
development of the condition, the prolapsed uterus remains exposed
outside of the vaginal opening, with accompanying difficulty in
defecation, urinary retention or incontinence, or urinary tract
infection.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, prolapse of the
uterus is caused primarily by frequent deliveries or general
asthenia, leading to deficiency and subsequent sinking of qi in the
Middle Jiao or deficiency of the kidneys.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate tenderness and deep whitish
depression when palpated on Internal Genitals.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen qi to lift the uterus.
Auricular points:
Internal Genitals, Pelvis, Abdomen: correspond to the affected
region. Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces
to increase stimulation.
Kidney, Spleen: strengthen both the congenital and acquired
168
essence.
Liver: The liver meridian passes through the external genitals
and the lower abdomen, so Liver is. taped to activate the liver
meridian qi.
Auxiliary points: for difficulty in defecation, Lung and Large
Intestine are added; for urinary retention oi: incontinence, Urinary
Bladder is added; for urinary tract infection, Endocrine and Adrenal
Gland are taped and Apex of Ear is punctured with a three-edged
needle to cause bleeding.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute one course.

169
 CHAPTER TEN
TREATMENT OF DISEASES AND
DISORDERS OF THE SENSORY
ORGANS
1. Myopia

MyopiJt is a visual disorder caused by dysfunction of the optic

dioptric system. The visual focus is formed in the front of the
retina when parallel light passes through the optic dioptric system;
dysfunction of this system affects the ability to focus normally.
Myopia is marked by poor distance vision and normal near-range
vision. The more extreme the condition, the shorter the range of ·
normal vision. A common cause of myopia is improper or overuse
of the eyes, although severe myopia is usually related to heredity.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, myopia is caused
primarily by deficiency of the liver and kidneys leading to
insufficient nourishment of the eyes.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Eye and patchy
eminence on Eye 2.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the liver and kidneys.
Auricular points:
Eye, Eye 2: correspond to the affected area. Locate positive
points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Liver, Kidney: reinforce the liver and kidney.
170
 Spleen: strengthens the spleen qi.
Occiput, Subcortex: regulate the optic nerve function.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of. this point with a
three-edged needle brightens the eyes.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is effective for treating
myopia; the younger the patient when treatment is instituted, the
better the results will be.

2. Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is a communicable viral infection

of the corneoconjunctival region, usually occurring in the summer
and autumn. It is marked by burning pain or the sensation of a
foreign body in the eye, palpebral edema, con]unctival congestion,
and watery secretion. If the cornea is affected, pain, photophobia,
lacrimation, and hypopsia may occur.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, epidemic
keratoconjunctivitis is caused internally by accumulation of,heatin
the lungs and stomach and externally by invasion of epidemic
pathogens, the combination of which attacks the eyes.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness , sometimes
accompanied· by eminence , on Eye.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and pathogens.
Auricular points:
Eye',· Eye 2: correspond to the affected tissues. Locate pdsitive
points; tape both ·frontal and dorsal · surfaces to increase
stimulation.
171
 Lung: According to the Five Orbiculus theory·, the lung
corresponds to the conjunctiva, so Lung is taped tb dispel heat in
the conjunctiva.
Liver: The liver opens into the eyes, so Liver IS taped to
dispel heat and brighten the eyes.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and pathogens,
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated,· twice a week. Auricular
therapy is very effective for treating epidemic keratoconjunctivitis.
This method is also suitable for treating other types of
conjunctivitis.

3. Stye

Stye is classified into two types according to its location.

External stye refers to acute suppurative inflammation of the ciliary
glands. It is marked by red and swollen eyelids with pain and
scleroma, with pustulation appearing several days after onset. In
severe cases, congestion and edema of the bulbar conjunctiva may
occur. Internal stye refers to acute suppurative inflammation of the
tarsal glands, with manifestations similar to but more severe than
those of external stye.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, stye is caused by
exogenous wind-eat or overindulgence in spicy or greasy food,
leading to stagnation of qi and blood in·the eyelid.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Eye.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and dispel heat.
Auricular points:
172
 Eye, Eye 2: correspond to the affected tissues. Locate positive
points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Spleen: According to the Five Orbiculus theory, the spleen
corresponds to the eyelid, so Spleen is taped to dispel heat in the
eyelid.
Liver: The liver opens into the eyes, so Liver is taped to dispel
wind-heat in the eyes.
· Apex of Ear: Bwod -letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and relieves pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Auricular
therapy is very effective for treating stye; in many cases one
treatment will be sufficient to effect a cure. This method is also
suitable for treating tarsal cyst and blepharitis.

4. Central Retinitis

Central retinitis 1s an eye disease caused by spasm of the

capillaries of the macula lutea retinae. Manifestations include
hypopsia, metamorphosia, micropsia, and fixed area opaca in the
center of the visual field. Tests of visual acuity will reveal central
scotoma. The condition may recur after recovery.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, central retinitis is
caused either by stagnation of the liver and deficiency of the spleen
resulting in accumulation of phlegm and dampness in the interior,
or by deficiency of the liver and kidneys leading to insufficient
nourishment of the eyes.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Eye.
173
 11
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver and strengthen the
spleen to remove phlegm; reinforce the liver and kidneys to
brighten the eyes.
Auricular points :
Eye: corresponds to the affected area. Locate positive points;
tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Liver, Kidney: strengthen the liver and kidneys to nourish the
eyes.
Spleen: reinforces the spleen to remove dampness and phlegm.
Sympathesis: relaxes vasospasm.
Subcortex, Occiput: regulate the optic nerve function.
Apex of Ear: blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle brightens the eyes.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course.

5. Simple Glaucoma

Simple glaucoma, a disease of the eye, is marked by

moderately or temporarily high intraocular pressure in the initial
stage and continuously high intraocular pressure in the advanced
stage.
Manifestations include distension of the eyeballs and easily
tiring vision. Headache and hypopsia may occur in the advanced
stage. There may be a family history of glaucoma.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, simple glaucoma is
caused either by hyperactive liver-fire and gallbladder-fire which
produce endogenous wind, or by deficiency of the kidney-yin
174
•
leading to relative hyperactivity of the liver-yang.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Eye and patchy hard
eminence on Liver.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel the liver-fire and nourish the
kidney-yin to subdue the liver-yang.
Auricular points:
Eye, E~e 1 : correspond to the affected tissues.
Liver: dispels the liver-fire.
Kidney: nourishes the kidney- yin to suppress the liver-yang.
Occiput: corresponds to the visual center.
Subcortex, Ear Shenmen: regulate the nervous function.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels fire and lowers the intraocular pressure.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
Auricular therapy can effectively alleviate the symptoms of simple
glaucoma and lower intraocular pressure. This method can also be
used as an auxiliary treatment for other types of glaucoma.

6. Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic problem of the nasal mucosa. It

is characterized by rhinochesmus , persistant paroxysmal sneezing,
dilute nasal discharge, and intermittent or persistent nasal
obstruction. There is often a history of other allergic problems or a
family history of allergy.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, allergic rhinitis is
caused internally by deficiency of the lung-qi and externally by
invasion of wind-cold or wind-heat. The combination of excessive
1.75
 1l
pathogenic qi and deficient antipathogenic qi results in dysfuntional
dispersal and descent by the lungs and subsequent accumulation of
body fluid which obstructs the nose.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Internal Nose and
Wind Stream.
Therapeutic principle: Reinforce the antipathogenic q1 and
expel the pathogenic qi.
Auricular points:
Internal Nose, Esternal Nose: correspond to the affected area.
Lu~g: The lungs open into the nose, so Lung is taped to
regulate dispersal and descent by the lungs to clear the nose.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to transform and transport
water and dampness.
Kidney: reinforces anti pathogenic qi.
Endocrine, Adrenal Giand, Wind Stream: relieve
inflammation and allergic reactions.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle relieves inflammation and allergic reactions.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatr;nents
constitute one course. This method is also suitable for treating
chronic rhinitis.

7. Suppurative Nasal Sinusitis

Suppurative nasal sinusitis is an acute or chronic suppurative

inflammation of the mucosa of the nasal sinuses. The acute type is
caused by diseases of the nasal cavity, or may occur secondary to
systemic disorders. It is marked by persisent nasal obstruction,
176
pussy nasal discharge, and pain m the nasal smuses. General
symptoms may include chills, fever, poor appetite, and general
malaise. The chronic type usually develops from the acute type,
and is marked by intermittent or persisent nasal obstruction,
profuse nasal discharge, mild headache, and hyposmia or anosmia.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, suppurative nasal
sinusitis is caused by invasion of the lungs by wind-heat, mental
injury leading to stagnation of qi which transforms into fire and
flares up along the gallbladder meridian, or overindulgence in spicy
or greasy food leading to accumulation of dampness and heat in the
interior which rise along the meridians.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Internal Nose and
Cheek.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel heat and remove dampness.
Auricular points:
Internal Nose, Cheek: correspond to the affected area. Locate
positive points; tape Cheek on both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation.
Lung: regulates the flow of qi to clear the nose.
Pancreas & Gallbladder: dispels gallbladder fire.
Spleen, Stomach: _regulate the spleen and stomach to remove
dampness.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve
inflammation.
Forehead: relieves pain in the forehead.
Ear Shenmen: relieves inflammation and pain.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
177
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is quite effective for
treating this condition.

8. Toothache

Toothache is a common symptom of various oral problems,

including caries, pulpitis, apical peridontal inflammation,
pericoronitis, and periodentitis.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies toothache into three
types. ( 1) Toothache due to pathogenic wind-fire, marked by
paroxysmal toothache, alleviated by cold and aggravated by heat,
and usually accompanied by general symptoms such as fever and
aversion to cold; ( 2) toothache due to hyperactive stomach-fire,
marked by severe toothache and reddish and swollen gums which
may ooze pus and bloody fluid; ( 3) toothache due to deficient
kidney-fire, marked by intermittent or persistent dull toothache,
mild redness and swelling or atrophy of the gums, gomphiasis, and
loss of teeth. Acute pulpitis and acute apical periodontal
inflammation are present in toothache due to pathogenic wind-fire;
pericoronitis and periapical abscess are present in toothache due to
hyperactive stomach-fire; chronic periodentitis and chronic apical
periodontal inflammation are present in toothache due to deficient
kidney-fire.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Jaw, Teeth, and
Mouth.
Therapeutic principle: clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to relieve pain.
Auricular points:
178
 Jaw, Teeth, Mouth: correspond to the affected area. Locate
positive points; tape Jaw and Teeth on both frontal and dorsal
surfaces to increase stimulation.
San Jiao: clinically effective point for toothache.
Adrenal Gland, Endocrine: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: relieve inflammation and pain.
Auxiliary points: For upper toothache, Large Intestine is
added; for lower toothache, Stomach is added; for toothache due
to pathogenic wind-fire or hyperactive stomach-fire, Apex of Ear is
punctured with a three-edged needle to cause bleeding; for
toothache due to deficient kidney-fire, Kidney is added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting punctur~ng where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular self-massage may also be practiced
twice a day. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve the pain of
toothache.

9. Acute Tonsillitis

Acute tonsillitis is an acute nonspecific inflammation of the

tonsils. It occurs mainly in the spring and autumn and primarily in
children and young people. Manifestations include chills, fever,
headache, sore throat aggravated by swallowing, and general
soreness of the body. Because acute tonsillitis may develop into
chronic tonsillitis or develop accompanying complications such as
otitis media, endocarditis, nephritis, and rheumatic arthritis,
immediate and proper treatment is essential.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acute tonsillitis is
caused either by exogenous wind-heat invading the throat through
179
the mouth and nose, or by endogenous pathogenic fire from the
lungs and stomach flaring up along the meridians and accumulating
in the throat.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Tonsil and Throat.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and dispel heat.
Auricular points:
Tonsil, Throat: c"arrespond to the affected area. Tape Tonsil
on both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Lung, Stomach, Large Intestine: expel endogenous heat.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
_ Apex of Ear, Helix 1 to Helix 6: Blood-letting puncturing of
these points in rotation with a three-edged needle dispels heat.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, once every other day. Auricular
therapy is very effective for treating acute tonsillitis. It is also
suitable for treating chronic tonsillitis and acute
pharyngolaryngitis.

10. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis is a chronic and diffuse inflammation of

the pharyngeal mucosa. It 1s characterized by long-term
discomfort, the sensation of a foreign body or obstruction in the

.
throat, and itching, dryness, and mild soreness of the pharynx.
'
Coughing and vomiting may occur if the pharynx is furthur
irritated.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, chronic pharyngitis
is caused primarily by yin deficieny of the lungs and kidneys which
allows deficient fire to flare up along the meridians and damage the
180
throat.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Throat and deep
depression with long recovery time when palpated on Lung and
Kidney.
Therapeutic principle: Tonify yin to moisten the throat.
Auricular points:
Throat, Mouth: correspond to the affected area.
Lung, Kidney: tonify the yin of the. lungs and kidneys to
moisten the throat.
San Jiao: regulates the flow of qi.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: relieves inflammation and pain.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy is effective for treating chronic
pharyngitis, but extended treatment should be given in order to
consolidate the effect. ~his method is also suitable for treating
chronic laryngitis.

11. Pharyngeal Paraesthesia

Pharyngeal paraesthesia, also called globus hystericus, is a

functional problem of the pharynx, caused by functional
disturbance of the autonomic nervous system, irritative diseases of
the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, cervical spondylopathy,
or disturbance of the metabolism or endocrine system. It occurs
mainly in adult females. It is characterized by the subjective
sensation of a foreign body or mass stuck in the throat or of the
throat being compressed. The sensation occurs or worsens when
swallowing saliva, but there is no abnormal sensation or difficulty
181
when swallowing food.· Additional symptoms may include
depression, a feeling of fullness in the chest, poor appetite,
abdominal distension, or acid regurgitation.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, pharyngeal
paraesthesia is caused primarily by mental injury leading to
stagnation of the liver-qi which attacks the spleen, resulting in the
accumulation of phlegin in the interior. The combination of
stagnant qi and accumulated phlegm obstructs the throat.
Auricular diagnosis: patchy hard eminence on Liver and severe
tenderness on Throat.
Therapeutic principle: Soothe the liver-qi and strengthen the
spleen to remove phlegm.
Auricular points:
Throat, Esophagus: correspond to the affected area.
Liver, Chest: Soothe the liver-qi and open the chest.
Spleen, Abdomen: strengthen the spleen to remove phlegm.
San Jiao: regulates the flow of qi and drains water.
Subcortex, Ear Shenmen: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating this condition.

12. Recurrent Ulcer of the Mouth

Recurrent ulcer of the mouth is the most commonly seen

ulcerative condition of the mucous membrane of the mouth. It is
marked by frequently recurring, painful, small, circular or oval
ulcers of the mucous membrane of the mouth. The pain is
aggravated by exposure of the ulcers to heat, cold, acid, or salt,
182
and may be seve.re enough to affect diet and sleep. The problem
may become more severe or recur more frequently in the presence
of insommia , poor diet , or overstrain.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, recurrent ulcer of
the mouth is classified into excessive and deficient types. The
excessive type is caused by overindulgence in spicy or greasy food
or by mental injury, leading to accumulation of heat in the heart
)

and spleen. which flares up along the meridians to the mouth. It is

marked by small painful burning ulcers in the mouth, usually
accompanied by thirst, halitosis, reddish tongue, and rapid pulse.
The deficient type is caused by long-standing illness, overstrain, or
excessive sexual activity which consumes the kidney-yin, leading to
subsequent flaring up of deficient fire to the mouth. It is marked by
frequently recurring, mildly painful small ulcers in the mouth,
accompanied by dry mouth, sensation of heat in the hands and
feet, dry reddish tongue with minimal coating, and thready and
I
rapid pulse.
Auricular diagnosis: For the excessive type, severe tenderness
on Mouth and Tongue; for the deficient type, moderate tenderness
or patchy eminence with nodular scleroma on Tongue and Mouth.
Therapeutic principle: For the excessive type, dispel heat and
fire; for the deficient type, nourish the kidney--yin to extinguish
deficient fire.
Auricular points:
Tongue, Mouth: correspond to the affected area. Locate
positive points; tape Tongue on both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation .
.Heart : The heart opens into the tongue, so Heart is taped to
activate the heart meridian and dispel heat.
183
 Liver: The liver meridian distributes to the internal cheek, so
Liver is taped to clear and activate the liver meridian.
San Jiao: clears passages to allow fire to descend.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve
inflammation.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Auxiliary points: For the excessive type, Apex of Ear is added
and punctured with a three-edged needle to cause bleeding; for the
deficient type, Kidney and Spleen are added to nourish the yin.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
Auricular therapy is very effective for treating this disorder.

13. Chronic Otitis Media Purulenta

Chronic otitis media purulenta is one of the most commonly

seen infectious diseases of the ear. It usually develops from acute
otitis media purulenta. Manifestations include intermittent or
persistant secretion of pus from the ears, tinnitus, and hearing
loss.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acute otitis .media
punilenta ts caused externally by invasion of damp-heat and
internally by hyperactivity of the liver-fire and gallbladder-fire.
The combination of external and internal factors results in the
accumulation of damp-heat and pathogens in the ears.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or patchy eminence on
Internal Ear.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat and pathogens.
Auricular points:
184
 Internal Ear, External Ear, Temple: correspond to the
affected area. Tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces of Internal Ear
to increase stimulation.
San Jiao, Pancreas &. Gallbladder: The San Jiao and
gallbladder meridians distribute to the ears, so these points are
taped to clear and activate the meridians and collaterals.
Kidney: The kidney open into the ears, so Kidney is taped to
benefit the ears.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and circulatory functions.
Apex of Ear: Bloo.d-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged nee?le dispels heat and pathogens.
Use auricular taping with strong stimulation, and blood-letting
puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. This method is also suitable for treating
acute otitis media purulenta and acute or chronic otitis media
catarrhalis.

14. Meniere's Disease

Meniere's disease is a type of auditory vertigo caused by

hydrops in the labyrinth of the ear. It is marked by transient
paroxysmal episodes of vertigo, aggravated by changes of body
position and usually accompanied by tinnitus, hearing loss, parallel
nystagmus' nausea' vomiting' perspiration' and pale complexion.
Spontaneous cure and repeated recurrence are often seen in clinical
practice.
Meniere's disease is classified as vertigo in traditional Chinese
medicine' and is considered to be caused either by rebellious rising
185
of hyperactive liver-yang which disturbs the ears, or by
accumulation of turbid phlegm in the Middle Jiao which obstructs
the rising of clear-qi to the ears. Vertigo caused by hyperactive
liver-yang is marked by sudden onset and aggravated by overstrain
or mental injury. It is often accompanied by restlessness,
irritability, and bitter taste in the mouth. Vertigo caused by
accumulation of turbid phlegm in the Middle Jiao is marked by
vertigo, heaviness of the head, poor appetite, drowsiness, nausea,
and vomiting. Pathogenic factors include endogenous wind and
phlegm; primarily affected are the liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Auricular diagnosis: For vertigo caused by hyperactive liver-
yang, severe tenderness on Internal Ear, Liver and Kidney; for
vertigo caused by accumulation of turbid phlegm in the Middle
Jiao, severe tenderness or whitish depression with long recovery
time when palpated on Internal Ear and Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Calm hyperactive liver-yang to expel
wind; strengthen the spleen and stomach to eliminate phlegm.
Auricular points:
Internal Ear, External Ear: correspond to the affected area.
San Jiao, Pancreas &. Gallbladder: the San Jiao and gallbladder
meridians distribute to the ear, so these points are taped to activate
the meridians and stop vertigo.
Subcortex: regulates the nervous and circulatory systems.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle calms the mind and expels wind.
For vertigo caused by hyperactive liver-yang, Liver and
Kidney are added to tonify the kidney-yin and suppress the
hyperactive liver-yang; for vertigo caused by accumulation of
186
turbid qi in the Middle Jiao, Spleen and Stomach are added to
strengthen the spleen and stomach and eliminate phlegm.
Use auricular taping, and blood-letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Five treatments constitute one course.
Auricular therapy is effective for treating Meniere's disease. It can
not only prevent vertigo, but can also treat the cause of the
condition by relieving hydrops in the labyrinth of the ear.

15. Dysfunction of the Temperomandibular Joint

Dysfunction of the tempomandibular joint is a commonly seen

oral problem, occuring mainly in young people and adults. It is
marked by pain in the temporomandibular joint when opening or
closing the mouth, usually aggravated by speaking, chewing, or
yawning. Articular dyskinesia may also be present, with snapping
or popping of the joint occuring when opening or closing the
mouth.
Traditional Chinese medicine classifies dysfunction of the
temporomandibular joint as toothache and considers it to be caused
by exogenous wind-cold, overstrain of the joint, or mental injury,
leading to stagnation of qi and blood in the meridians.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Jaw and Cheek.
Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals.
Auricular points:
Jaw, Cheek, Teeth, Mouth: correspond to the affected area.
Locate positive points; tape Jaw, Cheek, and Teeth on both
frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase stimulation.
Stomach, Large Intestine, San Jiao: The stomach, large
187
 ··~

intestine, and San Jiao meridians distribute to the mandible, so

these .points are taped to clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind and relieve pain.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating this disorder.

1.88
 CHAPTER ELEVEN
TREATMENT OF
SKIN DISEASES AND DISORDERS

1. Urticaria

Urticaria is an allergic skin reaction caused by sensitivity to

environmental allergens. It is marked by reddish skin lesions of
various sizes and shapes, quickly appearing and disappearing and
accompanied by itching, a feeling of fullness in the chest,
shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or
diarrhea. Urticaria is classified into acute and chronic types. Acute
uticaria may run its course in one to two weeks; chronic urticaria
persists six weeks or longer.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, urticaria is caused
either by internal deficiency of antipathogenic qi and subsequent
invasion by wind-cold or wind-heat, or by improper diet leading to
accumulation of heat in the interior.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Lung and Wind
Stream.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind, dispel heat and cold.
Auricular points:
Lung: The luhgs nourish the skin, so Lung is taped to expel
pathogens from the skin.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to remove
189
 ·.""'

dampness and heat from the interior.

Heart: relieves itching.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve allergic
reactions.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: calm the mind and relieve itching.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle expels wind and dispels heat to relieve itching.
Auxiliary points: For a feeling of fullness in the chest, Chest
and Trachea are added; for gastrointestinal symptoms, Stom~ch
and Abdomen are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week, Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating acute urticaria. For chronic urticaria long-term treatment
should be undertaken. For those with a sensitivity to adhesive
tape, hypoallergenic tape Qr auricular blood-letting puncturing may
be used. This method is also suitable for the treatment of
angioneurotic edema.

2. Eczema

Eczema is an allergic skin condition with various internal and

external causes, marked by pleomorphic skin lesions accompanied
by severe itching. It is classified into acute and chronic types.
Acute eczema affects primarily ~he craniofacial region and flexion
aspect of the extre~ities. Skin lesions may exhibit edematous
erythema , pimples , vesicles , oozing erosion, sea bs , or infection.
The condition usually lasts two or three weeks, but may recur after
recovery. Chronic eczema mainly affects the hands, retroauricular
190
region,· scrotum or vulva, and legs. Skin lesions may exhibit
pachylosis, pachydermia, deep dermatoglyph, pigmentation with
scales, and scratch marks. Chronic eczema may occur primarily or
develop from subacute eczema.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, eczema is caused
either by exogenous damp-heat and pathogens leading to stagnation
of qi. and blood in the skin, or· by deficiency of blood leading to
insufficient nourishment of the skin.
Auricular diagnosis: For acute eczema, severe tenderness on
Wind Stream and area.s corresponding to the affected regions; for
chronic eczema, deep whitish depression when palpated on Spleen
and areas corresponding to the affected regions.
Therapeutic principle: For acute eczema, dispel damp-heat
and pathogens; for chronic eczema, nourish the blood to moisten
dryness.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Tap with a plum
blosson needle to cause bleeding; dispel damp-heat and pathogens.
Lung: The lungs nourish the skin so Lung is taped to dispel
pathogens from the skin.
Spleen, San Jiao: remove dampness and heat.
Large Intestine: removes dampness and pathogens from stool.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve allergies.
Heart, Ear Shenmen, Occiput: calm the mind and .relieve
itching.
Center of Ear: clinically effective point for treating skin
conditions.
Auxiliary points: For acute eczema, blood-letting puncturing
of Apex of Ear with a three-edged needle is added; for chronic
191
eczema, Liver and Kidney are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, an.d blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. This method is also effective for treating
dermatitis medicamentosa and contact dermatitis.

3. Herpes Zoster

Herpes zoster is an acute herpetic skin disease caused by the

neurotropic herpes virus, which distributes along the peripheral
nerves causing skin lesions. Primarily affected are the intercostal
nerves; lesions are usually unilateral. Premonitory symptoms, or
prodrome, include mild fever, general malaise, and pain in the
affected region. Two or three days after the onset of the prodrome,
a band of skin lesions appear as the herpes virus distributes along
the affected nerve pathways. The course of the disease generally
lasts two to three weeks. Children may have little or no pain, but
severe pain persisting even after disappearance of the lesions may
occur in the elderly. Specific immunity is usually developed after
the first attack, so recurrence is rare.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, herpes zoster is
caused primarily by damp-heat and toxic pathogens affecting the
meridians. Usually affected are the liver and gallbladder meridians.
Auricular diagnosis : Severe tenderness on the areas
corresponding to the location of the skin lesions.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat and toxic pathogens.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the location of the skin lesions: Locate j
tender points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase 1

192
l
j

i
stimulation.
San Jiao: drains water to dispel damp-heat and toxic
pathogens.
Endocrine , Adrenal Gland : relieve infection.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and pathogens and relieves pain.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: calm the mind and relieve pain.
For h~·rpes zoster of the intercostal nerves, Liver and Pancreas
&. Gallbladder are added; for herpes zoster of the trigeminal nerve,
Stomach and Large Intestine are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated' concentrating on the affected
side, once every other day. Auricular therapy can effectively
relieve the pain and shorten the course of this disease.

4. Cutaneous Pruritis

Cutaneous pruritis is a common skin problem that may occur

secondary to various diseases such as endocrine dysfunction,
parasitosis, diabetes mellitus, hepatic illnesses, nephric disorders,
or tumors. In the elderly, it is referred to as pruritis senilis.
Cutaneous pruritis is marked in the initial stage by paroxysmal
itching without skin lesions. As the condition develops, scratch
marks, scabs, pigmentation or lichenification due to extensive
scratching may appear. The condition may be either localized,
appearing mainly on the scrotum, vulva, and anus, or general.
Atcording to traditional Chinese medicine ,cutaneous pruritis is
caused either by exogenous wind -heat attacking the skin, or by
deficiency of blood producing exogenous wind and dryness.
193
 Auricular diagnosis :Dryness and scattered desquamation of the
entire auricle, and severe tenderness on areas corresponding to the
affected regions.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and di~pel heat to relieve
itching.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: tap with a plum
blossom needle to cause mild bleeding.
Lung: disperses the lung qi to expel wind-heat.
Liver: regulates the flow of qi and blood.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen qi.
Heart, Ear Shenmen, Occiput, Subcortex: calm the mind and
relieve itching.
Center of Ear: clinically effective for relieving itching.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle expels wind and dispels heat to relieve itching.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation. and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Auricular therapy
is very effective for treating cutaneous pruritis. However, long-term
treatment should be given in order to consolidate the results.

5. Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a type of itching dermatoneurosis usually

induced by mental injury or localized physical irritation. It is
marked by lichenoid skin lesions accompanied by paroxysmal
itching. In the initial stage, there is localized itching, with dense
groups of falciform pimples occuring as the result of extensive
scratching. As the condition develops, deep dermatoglyph, dermal

I
194
ridging, and brown pachydermatamy appear.
Neurodermatitis is classified into localized and disseminated
types. The former is much more common and occurs primarily on
the bilateral sides and back of the neck, the elbows, the extension
aspect of the forearm, the sacral region, the medial sides of the
thighs, and the fibular aspect of the legs. The latter occurs mainly
in the craniofacial region, or on the shoulders, the extremities, or
the trunk.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, neurodermatitis is
caused either by exogenous pathogens such as wind, dampness and
heat obstructing the flo~ of qi and blood in the skin, • or by
deficiency of blood producing endogenous wind and subsequent
insufficient nourishment of the skin.
Auricular diagnosis: Patchy desquamation on Lung and areas
corresponding to the affected regions, or brown pigmentation on
areas corresponding to the affected regions.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and dispel damp-heat to
relieve itching.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Tap with a plum
blossom needle to cause· bleeding to expel wind, dispel damp-heat,
and relieve itching.
Lung: The lungs nourish. the skin, so Lung is taped to dispel
pathogens from the skin;
Liver: soothes the liver to regulate the flow of qi and blood.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve inflammation.
Heart, Ear Shenmen, Occiput, Subcortex: calm the mind and
relieve itching.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
195
three-edged needle expels wind and dispels heat to relieve itching.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course.

6. Acne Vulgaris.

Acne vulgaris is a common problem of adolescence. It is caused

by hypersteatosis combined with proliferation and hyperkerasis of
the epithelia of the folicular orifices, leading to accumulation of
sebum cutaneum and subsequent bacterial infection. Usually
affected are the face and chest. Skin lesions include pimples,
pustules, folliculorum, scleroma, and cysts.
According to traditional Chinese medicine , acne vulgaris is
caused either by exogenous wind-heat invading the lungs or by
overindulgence in spicy or greasy food, resulting in accumulation of
heat in the stomach and intestines.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or patchy eminence on
areas corresponding to the affected regions.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and dispel heat.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Tap with a plum
blossom needle to .cause bleeding.
Lung : expels wind.
Stomach, Large Intestine: dispel heat from the stomach and
intestines.
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim, Adrenal Gland: · regulate
endocrine functiori to relieve inflammation.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
196
three-edged needle dispels heat.
Auxiliary points: For itching, Heart, Ear Shenmen, and
Center of Ear are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course.

7. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of

the sebaceous glands of the skin, occurring in conjunction with
hypersteatosis, infection, or metabolic dysfunction. It is classified
into dry and moist types. The dry type is marked by yellowish-red
patches covered with pityroid oleaginous scales. The moist type
develops from the dry type, with eczematoid skin lesions displaying
erosion, oozing, and scabbing. This problem occurs mainly in
young people and adults. Usually affected are the head, face,
neck, axilla, and chest.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, seborrheic
dermatitis is caused primarily by overindulgence in spicy or greasy
foods, leading to accumulation of damp-heat in the interior and
subsequent overflow to the skin.
Auricular diagnosis: Seborrheic desquamation of the entire
auricle and severe tenderness on the areas corresponding to the
affected regions of the ~ody.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Tap with a plum
blossom needle to cause bleeding.
197
 Lung: disperses the lung qi and expels exogeous pathogens.
Large Intestine, San Jiao: discharge damp-heat.
Liver, Spleen: strengthen the liver and spleen.
Endocrine, Subcortex: regulate the endocrine and metabolic
functions.
Sympathesis: inhibits secretion of sebaceous glands.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting tapping where indicared twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course, Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating seborrheic dermatitis.

8. Erythema Multiforma

Erythema multiforma is an acute inflammatory condition of the

skin occuring mainly in young people and adults and usually in the
spring and autumn. It may occur in conjuction with allergic reaction
due to localized infection, drug sensitivity, food, or cold. Skin
lesions are pleomorphic, and may exhibit pimples, edematous
erythema, central vesicles, or erythema iris. Usually affected are
·the dorsum of the hands and feet and the distal ends of the
extremities. In mild cases, there is only localized itching; in severe
cases , mucosal erosion z.nd general symptoms such as high fever'·
headache, and arthralgia may occur.
Acoording to traditional Chinese medicine, erythema
multiforma is caused primarily by exogenous pathogens such as
wind-cold, windheat, or fire-toxin invading the skin and obstructing
the flow of qi and blood.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on the areas
corresponding to the affected regions.
198
 Therapeutic principle: Expel wind-cold and dispel heat and
pathogens.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Locate tender
points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Lung: expels exogenous pathogens.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve inflammation
and allergic reactions.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and pathogens.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, once every other day. Five
treatments constitute one course. For severe general symptoms,
appropriate additional therapy should be undertaken concurrently.

9. Furunculosis

Furuncle is an acute purulent inflammation of the hair follicle

and its peripheral sebaceous glands caused by the staphylococcus
aureus bacteria. Cases of multiple or frequently recurring fununcle
are referred to as furunculosis. People with diabetes mellitus,
chronic nephritis, malnutrition, eczema, prickly heat, or
pediculosis are at particularly high risk for this disorder.
Furunculosis is marked in the initial stage by bright red conic
papular eruptions which gradually enlarge and turn into scleroma,
accompanied by severe pain. The scleroma eventually suppurates,
sometimes with a slough embolus in the center of the lesion. When
the embolus drops off pus is discharged and the pain is alleviated,
199
A scar often remains after healing. General svmptoms in the acute
stage include chills, fever, headache, poor appetite, or even
hematosepsis, The furuncles usually occur on the face, back of the
neck, back , a.nd buttocks.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, furunculosis is
caused either by exogenous toxic heat invading the body and
accumulating in the skin, or by overindulgence in spicy or greasy
food resulting in endogenous toxic heat accumulating in the skin.
In both cases, the flow of qi and blood is obstructed, with
furuncles forming due to the combination of stagnant blood and
accumul?ted toxic heat.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness or reddish spotty or
patchy eminence on areas corresponding to the affected areas.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel toxic heat.
Auricular Points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions of the body: Select
points according to the location of the furuncles. Locate positive
points and ·tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to increase
stimulation.
Lung: The lungs nourish the skin, so Lung is taped to dispel
toxic heat.
Heart: According to Five Element theory, the heart ts
governed by fire, so Heart is taped to dispel toxic heat.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve
inflammation.
Ear Shenmen: relieves inflammation and pain.
Apex of Ear: blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels toxic heat.
Auxiliary points are added according to meridian theory. For
200
example, for furuncle on the face, Large Intestine and Stomach are
added; for furuncle on the back of the neck, Urinary Bladder and
Pancreas & Gallbladder are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, once every
other day. Auricular therapy can effectively relieve inflammation,
so it is very useful in the treatment of furunculosis. This method is
also effective for treating carbuncle, impetigo herpetiformis,
erysipelas, chronic folliculitis, and various other skin infections. In
cases with severe general symptoms, additional treatment should
be undertaken concurrently.

10. Brandy Nose

Brandy nose refers to chronic inflammation of the skin of the

nasal, paranasal, glabeuar or buccal regions. It is caused by
gastrointestinal disturbance, endocrine disorder, food sensitivities,
or chronic local infection. It is marked in different stages by
erythema, pimples, pustules, and rhinophyma successively. It
usually occurs in adults.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, brandy nose is
caused primarily by overindulgence in greasy or spicy food or
alcohol, leading to accumulation of damp-heat in the interior and
subsequent evaporation upward.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness, sometimes with
reddish patchy eminence, on areas corresponding to the affected
regions of the body.
Therapeutic principle: Dispel damp-heat.
Auricular points:
Areas corresponding to the affected regions: Tap with a plum
201
blossom needle to cause bleeding.
Lung: expels pathogens from the skin.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to
remove dampness.
Large Intestine, San Jiao: drain damp-heat.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland: relieve inflammation.
Apex of Ear: Biood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course.

11. Chloasma·

Chloasma refers to acquired, localized, cutaneous melanosis.

It may be caused by chronic illness, endocrine disorder, irregular
menstruation, or overexposure to the sun, leading to hyperfunction
of the cutaneous melanocytes. Adult women are especially
susceptible to this problem. Affected skin is marked by dark or
light brown patches with a clearly delineated border, symmetrically
distributed in the shape of a butterfly and covering the forehead and
zygomatic, buccal, nasal, and perioral regions.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, chloasma is caused
either by deficiency of the kidney essence, or by stagnation of the
liver-qi, both of which may lead to insufficient nourishment of the
face.
Auricular diagnosis: Brown pigmentation on areas
corresponding to the location of the patches; severe tenderness on
Endocrine and Midpoint of Rim.
202
 Therapeutic principle: Clear and activate the meridians and
collaterals to nourish the face.
At;ricular points:
Areas corresponding to the patches: Tap with a plum blossom
needle to cause bleeding.
Liver: improves the flow of qi and blood.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to
improve digestion.
Kidney : tonifies the kidneys to nourish the face.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Midpoint of Rim: regulate
endocrine function.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting tapping where indicated, twi'ce a week. Ten treatments
constitute one course.

203
 CHAPTER TWELVE
TREATMENT OF MISCELLANEOUS
DISEASES AND DISORDERS

1. Influenza

Influenza is an acute communicable disease of the respiratory

tract caused by the influenza. virus, usually occurring epidemically
in the winter. It is marked by sudden onset of high fever, chills,-
headache, soreness of the entire body, lassitude, poor appetite,
nausea, and vomiting, usually accompanied by nasal obstruction,
nasal discharge, dry cough, and sore throat.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, influenza is caused
by epidemic exogenous pathogens such as wind-cold or wind-heat
invading the lungs through the skin and nose, with the result that
the lungs cannot perform their function of dispersal and descent
normally. Influenza caused by wind-cold is characterized by severe
chills, mild fever, soreness of the entire body, and nasal obstruction
with dilute discharge. Influenza caused by wind-heat ts
characterized by high fever, mild chills , headache, thirst, sore
throat, and nasal obstruction with scanty yellowish discharge.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Lung and Throat.
Therapeutic principle: Expel wind and dispel heat or cold.
Auricular points:
Lung, Internal Nose, External Nose, Throat: The lungs open
204
into the nose and relate to the throat, so these points are taped to
facilitate the flow of lung-qi, expel wind, and dispel heat.
Auxiliary points: For high fever, Apex of Ear and Apex of
Tragus are punctured with a three-edged needle to cause bleeding;
for frontal headache, Forehead is added; for bilateral headache,
Temple is added; for occipital headache, Occiput is added; for
cough, Tranche a and Mouth are added; for poor appetite, nausea,
and vomiting, Stomach and Abdomen are added.
Use auricular taping, and blood-'letting puncturing where
indicated, twice a week. Auricular therapy is very effective for
treating influenza; there will often be great improvement in all
symptoms after only one treatment.

2. Mumps

Mumps is an acute communicable disease caused by the mumps

virus. It occurs most commonly in children and is usually epidemic
in the winter and spring. Symptoms include fever, aversion to
cold, headache, and pain and swelling of the parotid glands. The
prognosis is generally good, but if appropriate and timely
treatment IS not given there may be complications including
meningitis, or testitis or ovritis with possible subsequent sterility.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, mumps is caused
by exogenous wind-heat and pathogens which invade the San ]iao
and gallbladder meridi~ns, leading to obstruction of qi and blood in
the parotid glands.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Apex of Antitragus
and Jaw.
Therapeuti~ principle Expel wind and dispel heat and
205
pathogens.
Auricular points:
Jaw, Neck: correspond to the affected region of the body.
Locate positive points; tape both frontal and dorsal surfaces to
increase stimulation.
San Jiao, Pancreas &. Gallbladder: Both the San Jiao and
gallbladder meridians· pass through the parotid region, so these
points are taped to activate the meridian qi and discharge exogenous
pathogens.
Endocrine, Adrenal Gland, Wind Stream: relieve
inflammation.
Apex of Ear, Apex of Antitragus: Blood-letting puncturing of
these points with a three-edged needle dispels heat and expels
pathogens.
Auxiliary points: For complication by meningitis, Subcortex,
Forehead, Temple and Occiput are added; for complication by
testitis or ovritis, Internal Genitals and Liver are added.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, once every other day. Five
treatments constitute one course. Auricular therapy is very
effective for treating mumps. It can also be used as a preventative
measure during mumps season.

3. Motion Sickness

Motion sickness commonly occurs while riding buses, trains,

cars' airplanes' or boats. It is caused by motion which affects the
semicircular canal of the inner ear. Primary manifestations include
nausea, vomiting, and headache, accompanied by pale complexion,
206
cold sweat, and exhaustion.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, motion sickness is
caused internally by deficiency of the spleen and stomach and
externally by irritation by noxious fumes and odors. The
combination of internal and external factors results in rebellious
rising of the stQmach-qi.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Internal Ear and
Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Calm the mind and regulate the
stomach to suppress rebellious rising of the stomach-qi and halt
vomiting.
Auricular points:
Internal Ear, External Ear: harmonize the function of the
vestibular organ to relieve dysfunction of the semicircular canal
caused by motion.
Cardia: main point for vomiting.
Occiput, Ear Shenmen, Liver: calm the mind.
Wind Stream: main antiallergy point; relieves irritation caused
by noxious fumes and odors.
Use auricular taping and pressure. Tape the points half an
hour before boarding and press periodically during travel. In this
way, most cases can be prevented. Many reports indicate that this
method is very effective for treating and preventing motion
sickness.

4. Obesity

Obesity is a commonly occuring condition caused by .various

factors including nervous dysfunction, endocr.ine disorder,
207
metabolic disturbance, improper diet, drugs, or heredity. It is
marked by excessive fat deposits resulting in weight twenty percent
or more greater than standard.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, obesity is caused by
deficiency of the spleen resulting in accumulation of dampness and
phlegm in the interior.
Auricular diagnosis: For obesity due to nervous dysfunction,
severe tenderness and deep depression when palpated on
Subcortex; for obesity due to metabolic or endocrinal disturbance,
severe tenderness and deep depression when palpated on Endocrine
and Midpoint of Rim.
Therapeutic principle: Remove dampness and phlegm.
Auricular points:
Endocrine, Midpoint of Rim: regulate endocrine function.
Spleen: strengthens the spleen to remove dampness and
phlegm.
Kidney, San Jiao: promote drainage of water.
Lung, Large Intestine: increase excretion.
Subcortex, Forehead: regulate excitement and inh\bition of
the c~ntral nervous system.
Abdomen, Middle Superior Concha: remove dampness and
phlegm.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Ten treatments constitute one course. Auricular self-massage and
pressure can also be practice periodically during the day. Extended
'treatment should be pursued. Auricular therapy is not effective for ·
obesity due to heredity.

208
 5. Drug Withdrawal

Drug withdrawal refers to the physiological and psychological

process of overcoming physical addiction to drugs such as heroin or
other narcotics, barbituates, or amphetimines, by complete
cessation of use. It has been shown that auricular therapy can
abolish both the physical symptoms and psychological craving
present during the withdrawal process. All informants reported a
general sense of well-being while undergoing treatment. They felt
less drowsy, more interesed in their surroundings, and quickly
regained interest in conversation and reading. Appetite and bowel
function both improved. In addition, lacrimation, running nose,
wheezing, stomach cramps, and feelings of aching bones and cold
usually disappeared after ten to fifteen minutes of auricular
stimulation. A theoretical basis for these clinical findings has been
provided by recent physiological investigatiuns demonstrating that
auricular electroacupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins
and ACTH.
Therapeutic principle: Stimulate metabolism and tranquilize
the mind.
Auricular points:
Lung, Large Intestine, Kidney: promote drug excretion.
Stomach, Spleen: strengthen the stomach and spleen and
~einforce antipathogenic qi.
Subcortex, Forehead: harmonize the central nervous function.
Liver, Chest: regulate the flow of qi and widen t~~ chest.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
209
Ten treatments constitute one course. Six to eight weeks are
needed to restore normal function of the central nervous function
after drug withdrawal, so treatment should be continued until this
interval has passed. Auricular therapy is an ideal method of
treatment during and after drug withdrawal because of its
simplicity, effectiveness, and lack of side effects.

6. Tobacco Withdrawal

Extensive research has shown that smoking tobacco is harmful

to the health. Long-term exposure to the tar and nicotine contained
in tobacco increases the incidence of bronchitis, coronary heart
disease, emphysema, hypertension, fetal malformation, and cancer
of the lung, mouth, lip, and pancreas. In addition, second-hand
smoke pollutes the air breathed by non-smokers in the same room,
resulting in harm to them as well as to the smokers themselves.
Tobacco is physically addictive as well as psychologically
habit-forming. Long-term smokers often experience withdrawal
symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, irritability, insomnia,
feelings of emptiness, and weight gain when they suddenly stop
smoking. Auricular therapy has been shown to be very effective for
relieving these symptoms. A theoretical basis for this clinical
finding has been provided by recent studies showing that auricular
electroacupuncture stimulates the release of. endorphins and
ACTH.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Mouth, Trachea,
and Lung.
Therapeutic principle: Open the chest and tranquilize the
mind.
210
 Auricular points :
Mouth, Tongue, Trachea, Lung: ·correspond to areas of the
body directly stimulated by the tar and nicotine contained in
tobacco; inhibit the craving for tobacco.
Liver, Chest: soothe the liver and regulate movement of qi.
Subcortex, Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, twice a week.
Five treatments constitute one course. After taping, many people
will experience subjective changes in the taste of tobacco smoke,
which will seem to become bitter or astringent, with resulting
aversion to smoking. There will generally be great improvement in
withdrawal symptoms after three to five treatments; however,
auricular therapy is only effective for those who are actively
motivated to stop smoking ..

7. Alcohol Withdrawal

Long-term excessive consumption of alcohol may damage the

heart, liver, and brain, and increase the morbidity of various
refractory problems such as hepatitis, hepacirrhos,is, hepatic
cancer, cardiocerebral arteriosclerosis, and peptic ulcer. According
to traditional Chinese medicine , alcohol is hot and peppery.
Excessive consumption of alcohol produces damp-heat which
accumulates in the liver, gallbladder, spleen, and stomach.
Auricular therapy can both regulate the functions of the Zangfu
organs to eliminate pathogenic Clamp-heat and also tranquilize the
mind to relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as
paroxysmal trembling, sweating, hallucinations, and convulsions.
Therapeutic principle: Regulate the movement of qi and
211
tranquilize the mind.
Auricular points:
Mouth, Stomach: inhibit the craving for alcohol.
Spleen, San Jiao: strengthen the spleen and discharge
dampness.
Endocrine: regulates the ~ndocrine function.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput, Subcortex: calm the mind.
Apex of Ear: Blood-letting puncturing of this point with a
three-edged needle dispels heat and tranquilizes the mind.
Use auricular taping with strong manipulation, and blood-
letting puncturing where indicated, twice a week. Five treatments
constitute one course. Auricular therapy is effective only for people
who are actively motivated to stop drinking.

8. Childhood Anorexia

Childhood anorexia is a common digestive disorder that occurs

primarily in children from one to ten years old. It is characterized
by long-standing poor appetite or even refusal to eat, and is usually
accompanied by pale compleXion, emaciation, and retardation of
growth and development.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, childhood anorexia
1s caused by improper dietary habits, such as overeating and
drinking, inappropriate food preferences, or irregular meals,
resulting in injury to and dysfunction of the spleen and stomach.
Auricular diagnosis: Moderate tenderness on Spleen and
Stomach.
Therapeutic principle: Strengthen the spleen and stomach to
improve digestion and absorption.
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 .A:'uricular points:
Stomach, Spleen: correspond to the affected areas of the
body; strengthen the spleen and stomach to improve digestion and
absorption.
Small Intestine: improves absorption of nutrients.
Liver: regulates flow of qi to improve transportation and
transpormation by the spleen and stomach.
Abdomen: promotes peristalsis.
Endocrine, Subcortex: regulate the digestive function.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Five treatments constitute
one course. Auricular therapy is very effective for treating
childhood anorexia; there is usually marked improvement in
appetite, peristalsis, and willingness to eat after only one or two
treatments.

9. Competition Syndrome

Competition syndrome refers to a series of symptoms caused

by overstrain or tension before or during competitive events such as
sports meets , exams , or performances , with resulting imbalance
between excitation and inhibition of the cerebral cortex.
Manifestations include dizziness, insomnia, headache,
re5tlessness, dry mouth, poor appetite, weakness, listlessness,
nausea, vomiting,· diarrhea, constipation, dysmenorrhea, irregular
menstruation, trembling, and even loss of consciousness.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, competition
syndrome is caused by overstrain and tension which affect the heart
and spleen, resulting in various mental and digestive disorders.
Auricular diagnosis: Severe tenderness on Heart, Ear
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Shenmen, and Spleen.
Therapeutic principle: Nourish the heart and strengthen the
spleen to tranquilize the mind.
Auricular points:
Heart: The mind resides m the heart, so Heart 1s taped to
calm the mind.
Spleen: strengthens~ the spleen's ability to produce q1 and
blood to nourish the heart.
Liver: regulates the emotions to tranquilize the mind.
Subcortex: harmonizes excitation and inhibition of the cerebral
cortex.
Ear Shenmen: main point for tranquilizing the mind.
Auxiliary points: For headache and dizziness, blood-letting
puncturing of Apex of Ear is added; for insomnia, Occiput and
Anterior Lobe are added; for poor appetite, Stomach and Abdomen
are. added; for nausea and vomiting, Cardia and Stomach are added;
for diarrhea or constipation, Large Intestine and Abdomen are
added; for dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation, Internal
Genitals and Endocrine are added.
Use of auricular taping, blood-letting puncturing, pressure, or
self-massage before competition can not only prevent occurrence of
the symptoms of competition syndrome, but can also improve
mental concentration and physical ability so that the competitive
level is raised.

10. Childhood Hyperkinetic Syndrome

Childhood hyperkinetic syndrome, also called minimal brain

dysfunction, is a common developmental problem ofchildhood. It
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is characterized by hyperactivity, dis tractability, excessive mood
swings, and cognitive difficulty. HoweveT, intelligence is close to
or completely normal, and sometimes superior. Minimal
dysfunction of the central nervous system may be present. In most
cases, all symptoms diminish or disappear spontaneously with
maturation. Common ca.uses include heredity, abnormal or difficult
labor resulting in oxygen deprivation, or disease in infancy.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, childhood
hyperkinetic syndrome is caused by congenital insufficiency or by
acquired malnutrition, both of which may affect childhood
development.
Auricular diagnosis: Tenderness on Subcortex, Liver, and
Kidney.
Therapeutic principle: Calm the mind and nourish the brain.
Auricular points:
Kidney: strengthens the congenital essence.
Liver, Heart: calm the mind.
Spleen, Stomach: strengthen the spleen and stomach to tonify
qi and blood.
Subcortex, Forehead: nourish the brain.
Ear Shenmen, Occiput: tranquilize the mind.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Auricular massage is very
useful for these children, and should be given by their parents
twice a day.

II. Mental Retardation

Mental retardation: is a developmental disability that becomes

apparent during childHoodL Intelligence lags behind children of the
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same age group, and never completely matures. Causes of mental
retardation include birth trauma and heredity, but forty to seventy~
five percent of cases have no clear and definite cause.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, mental retardation
is caused by congenital deficiency of the liver and kidneys which
affects childhood development.
Auricular diagnosis: Tenderness on Subcortex, Liver, and
Kidney.
Therapeutic principle: Tonify the liver and kidneys to
stimulate intellectual development.
Auricular points:
Kidney: reinforces the congenital essence to nourish the
marrow and brain.
Liver: tonifies the liver~ blood to nourish the tendons.
Spleen, Stomach, Abdomen: strengthen the acquired essence
and stimulate intellectual development.
Subcortex, Adrenal Gland, Endocrine: regulate nervous and
endocrine functions.
Forehead, Temple., Occiput: tonify the brain.
Use auricular taping, twice a week. Ten treatments constitute
one course. Long~term treatment should be given to achieve
results. Auricular massage is very useful for these children, and
should he given by their parents twice a day. The younger the child
when treatment is instituted, the better the results will be.

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 APPENDIX I

GUIDE FOR INDEPENDENT STUDY

Chapter One Anatomy of the Auricle

Master the anatomical names of both frontal and dorsal
surfaces of the auricle.
Understand the histological structure of the auricle.
Comprehend relationship of the ears, meridians, and Zangfu
.organs.
Chapter Two Mechanism of Auricular Diagnosis and Treatment
Comprehend homuncular reflex theory and Delta reflex
theory.
Grasp meridian theory.
Chapter Three Auricular Points
Comprehend the distribution rule of the auricular points.
Master the methods for locating the auricular points.
Comprehend nomenclature of auricular points.
Grasp the locations of all the auricular points.
Comprehend the indications of all the auricular points.
Chapter Four Auricular Diagnostic Methods
Master procedures , clinical significance of positive signs, and
precautions for the three auricular diagnostic methods.
Chapter Five Commonly Used Auricular Therapeutic Methods
Grasp methods of auricular taping and auricular blood-letting.
puncturing.
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 Comprehend auricular pressure and auricular massage.
Chapter Six_ Principles for Choosing Auricular Points
· Master the four methods for choosing auricular points.

218
 APPENDIX II·

LIST OF AURICULAR POINTS

H1 Center of Ear J+ 9:t Erzhong
H2 Rectum H~ Zhichang
H3 Urethra Pj(Jlt Niaodao
H4 External Genitals ;rHtM:B Waishengzhiqi
H5 Anus JJII'l Gangmen
H6 Apex of Ear .Ij.:~ Erjidn
H7 Liver Yang JJHEI Gdnylmg
H8 Helix1 ~ 1 Lunyi
H9 Helix2 ~ 2 Luner
H10 Helix3 ~ 3 Lunsdn
Hll Helix4 ~ 4 Lunsi
H12 Helix5 ~ 5 Lunwii
H13 Helix6 ~ 6 Lunliu
SF1 Fingers m Zhi
SF2 Wind Stream J.i<tfl Fengxi
SF3 WristMt Wan
SF4 Elbow JM Zhou
SFS Shoulder Jfi Jian
SF6 Clavicle t!ll.'ff Suogii
AH1 Toes ill: Zhi
AH2 Heel m Gen

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AH3 Ankle~ Huai
AH4 Knee .II* Xi
AH5 Hip fi!l Kuiin
AH6 Lumbosacral Vertebrae Jllfl£tl Yiiodizhui
AH7 Thoracic Vertebrae '-Itt Xiongzhui
AH8 Cervical Vertebrae ~tl }ingzhui
AH9 Sympathesis 3<:~ Jiaogan
AHlO Sciatic Nerve ~1ftl!tt:2 Zuogushenjing
AHll Buttock W Tun
AH12 Abdomen JJl Fu
AH13 Chest '-! Xiong
AH14 Neck~ Jing
TFl Superior Triangular Fossa ~~1: Jiaowoshang
TF2 Internal Genitals pq 1:~~ Neishengzhiqi
TF3 Middle Triangular Fossa fil'j ~ 9=t Jiaowozhong
TF4 Ear Shenmen II= tilt f1 Ershenmen
TF5 Pelvis~~ Penqiiing
Cl Angle of Superior Concha Mfil'J Tingjiao
C2 Urinary Bladder MJID't Pangguang
C3 Ureter ~ffj('l1f Shilniaoguan
C4 Kidney 'If Shen
C5 Middle Superior Concha 1i 9=t Tingzhong
C6 Pancreas &. Gallbladder JFIU~ Yidan
C7 Liver J]f Giin
C8 Spleen H.ijt Pi
C9 Large Intestine :kllm Dachang
ClO Appendix flfi) ~ Lanwei
Cll Small Intestine Jj\.!lm Xiaochang

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C12 Duodenum +=mnm Shierzhichtmg
C13 Stomach~ Wei
C14 Cardia ~n Benmen
C15 Esophagus it:Jl! Shidao
C16 Mouth P Kou
C17 Lung Jtrli Fei
C18 Heart JL' Xin
C19 Trachea 4:.'1' Qiguan
C20 Endocrine pg ?t ~ Neifenmi
C21 San Jiao .:=. ~ Sanjiao
T1 External Ear 5'~ J+ Waier
T2 Apex of Tragus !Jf~ Pingjian
T3 External Nose j~J. Waibi
T4 Adrenal Gland 'If _t)l Shenshcmgxian
T5 Throat PI§~ Yanh6u
T6 Internal Nose pg J. Neibi
Al Midpoint of Rim ~ q:i Yuanzhong
0

A2 Apex of Antitragus x;f'!Jf~ Duipingjian

A3 Occiput :f,t _; ··Zhen
A4 Temple ~!if Nie
A5 Forehead lJ;i E
A6 Subcortex &:19tr Pizhixia
L1 Eye2 § 2 Miler
L2 Eyel § 1 Muyi
L3 Teeth ;f · Ya
L4 Tongue% ;;he
L5 Jaw {iijf He
L6 Anterior Ear Lobe @;Wf Chuiqian

221
 L7 Eye Dlt Ydn
L8 Internal Ear yf;J Ij: Neier
L9 Cheek iii~ Micmjia
LlO Tonsil MIJ~tf;f~ Bidntaoti
DI Heart of Dorsal Surface Ij: 1fIL' Erheixin
D2 Liver of Dorsal Surface Ij:"WJJf Erbeigan
D3 Spleen of-Dorsal Surface Ij:1fM! Erbeipi
D4 Lung of Dorsal Surface Ij:lf.Difi Erheifei
DS Kidney of Dorsal Surface Ij: "W 'If Erbeishen
D6 Groove of Dorsal Surface Ij:"WttJ Erbeigeu
D7 Upper Ear Root J:Ij::m Shcmgergen
DB Root of Ear Vagus Ij:~:m Ermigen
D9 Lower Ear Root r.Ij:;fl 'Xiaergen

222
 APPENDIX III

TERMINOLOGY OF
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
1. Yin-yang: a general term for two opposite yet interrelated
aspects of matter or energy. The principle of yin-yang is widely
applied in traditional Chinese medicine.
2. Five Element Theory, also called Five EvQI.utive Phases:
comprising wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. This philosophical
theory was integrated with medical practice in ancient China, and
expounds the unity of matter and the human body and the
physiopathological relationship among the five Zan:g organs.
3. Zangfu organs: include the five solid organs, i. e. the heart,
liver ,spleen ,lungs ,and kidneys ;six hollow organs ,i.e. gallbladder,
stomach, large intestine, small intestine, San Jiao, and urinary
bladder; and the extraordinary Fu organs, i. e. the brainmarrow,
bone, vessels, gallbladder, and uterus.
4. Meridian theory: one of the important components of
traditional Chinese. medicine. It describes the physiology and
pathology of the me~idians and· collaterals and their relationship
with the Zangfu organs, and serves as a guide for acupuncture in
clinical practice.
5. Gate of Life: refers to the kidney-yang.
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 6. San Jiao, also called Triple Warmer: one of the six Fu
organs, consisting of the Upper Jiao, Middle Jiao, and Lower Jiao.
The Upper Jiao houses the heart and lungs, the Middle Jiao the
spleen, and the Lower Jiao the liver, kidneys, urinary bladder, and
small and large intestines. San Jiao synthesizes the functioning of
the Zangfu organs. It also provides passageways for the movement
of qi and fluids.
7. Five Orbiculus theory: a theory of opthamology which
holds that each of the five Zang organs is physiopathologically
related to one of the five orbiculi' i. e. the spleen corresponds to the
flesh orbiculus (the eyelid), the heart to the blood orbiculus (the
canthus), the lungs to the qi orbiculus (the sclera), the liver to the
wind orbiculus (the iris), and the kidneys to the water orbiculus
(the pupil).
8. Five Hearts: refer to the heart, palms of the hands, and
soles of the feet.
9. Congenital essence: original' substance essential for
construction of the body and generation of offspring.
10. Acquired essence: substance derived from food and water
and used to maintain the vital activities and mechanisms of the
body.
11. Clear-qi: the refined essence of food and water, conveyed
to the lungs and distributed to the internal organs and tissues.
12. Phlegm: accumulated dampness as a pathological product;
results from dysfunction of the lungs, spleen, and kidneys or from
disturbance of water circulation in the San Jiao passageways.
13. Mental injury: functional derangement of qi, blood, and
the Zangfu organs which may be caused by persistent and violent
emotions such as joy' anger., melancholy' anxiety' grief' fear' and
224
terror.
14. Bi syndrome: arthralgia • characterized by joint pain.
15. Lin syndrome: stranguria, characterized by frequent,
painful , or dripping urination.
16. Wei syndrome: flaccidity syndrome.
17. Yu syndrome : a series of symptoms caused by stagnation
of the liver qi, including restlessness, irritability, a feeling of
fullness in the chest, and sighing.

225
 A

Helisl

Lower Lr Roci&

,Jaw I Toni"•
,-\
.1 ,_
I \
\Cheek\ E~•
Internal· ; J
J::ar\ 1 __
---..(- Dorsal Surface
1 Tonail

Helid

Frontal Surface
Figure 3~2 Sketch map of the International Standard of Auricular Points
A: Frontal Surface; Jl: Dorsal surface