Does ear acupuncture really work for anxiety?

Researchers conclude that ear acupuncture really does work effectively to reduce anxiety.

The research team discovered that ear acupuncture exerts “a specific and measurable effect” on anxiety levels.

Ear acupuncture involves using either standard filiform acupuncture needles or special auricular acupuncture needles. In this sham-controlled trial, auricular acupuncture needles were inserted and retained for a total of 20 minutes and then removed. Sham needles were applied to patients in the control group.

The researchers documented both anti-anxiety and sedative effects of true ear acupuncture. Sham ear acupuncture did not produce a significant reduction in anxiety levels or induce a sedative effect. The sham versus true acupuncture results confirms that the placebo effect was not responsible for the therapeutic anti-anxiety effects of the auricular acupuncture.

In related acupuncture study, researchers concluded that acupuncture relieves generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition characterized by excessively intense and debilitating chronic anxiety. The researchers found that acupuncture had a fast effective action and high compliance.

Ottawa Acupuncture 

If you suffer from a mental health issue and are unsure about which therapy to try we offer a free 15 minute 'no obligation' consultation in which we will help you choose the most appropriate treatment path for you. Book your free 15 consultation online NOW.