Using Ear Seeds for Hemorrhoids Relief: A Gentle TCM Approach

Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, or even pain around the anal area. While modern medicine treats them with creams or minor procedures, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a more holistic approach. Instead of only treating the symptoms, TCM focuses on restoring balance inside the body — improving digestion, circulation, and energy flow.

One of the easiest and most natural TCM methods to relieve hemorrhoids is ear acupressure (also known as auriculotherapy). By placing small ear seeds on specific points of the ear, you can stimulate your body’s self-healing response.

How Ear Seeds Help with Hemorrhoids

According to TCM, hemorrhoids develop when Qi (vital energy) and blood stagnate in the lower body. This can happen due to:

• Sitting for long hours
• Eating too much spicy or greasy food
• Chronic constipation
• Stress or poor circulation

When these imbalances persist, damp-heat can accumulate in the Large Intestine and Rectum meridians, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Stimulating ear points helps clear heat, move Qi and blood, and strengthen internal organs. Over time, this reduces swelling, promotes smoother bowel movements, and prevents hemorrhoids from coming back.

The Four Key Ear Points for Hemorrhoids Relief

Ms. Mai, our TCM therapist, recommends using four main ear points: Large Intestine (#10), Rectum (#17), Spleen (#15), and Anus (#21). Each point targets a specific aspect of the condition.

1. Large Intestine Point (#10): Clears Heat and Promotes Smooth Digestion

In TCM, the Large Intestine channel governs elimination. When it’s blocked or overheated, you may experience constipation or inflammation — both common causes of hemorrhoids.

Stimulating this point helps release trapped Qi, reduce internal heat, and support smoother bowel movements. It’s especially beneficial for those who strain during bowel movements or feel a burning sensation afterward.

TCM Benefit: Promotes detoxification and relieves swelling by improving bowel flow.

2. Rectum Point (#17): Reduces Inflammation and Pain

The Rectum point corresponds directly to the lower intestinal area. It helps relieve pain, swelling, and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.

In TCM, this point helps restore the downward flow of Qi, preventing pressure from building up in the rectal veins. It’s ideal if you often feel heaviness or throbbing pain when sitting or standing for too long.

TCM Benefit: Encourages healthy energy flow and soothes rectal inflammation.

3. Spleen Point (#15): Strengthens Qi and Prevents Bleeding

The Spleen plays a key role in transforming food into Qi and blood. When the Spleen is weak, blood circulation becomes poor, and vessels can lose their tone — leading to bleeding hemorrhoids.

Stimulating this point strengthens the Spleen, supports digestion, and improves blood circulation. Over time, it helps stop bleeding and strengthens the tissues around the anus.

TCM Benefit: Nourishes the body’s Qi and helps blood stay within the vessels.

4. Anus Point (#21): Relieves Itching and Improves Local Circulation

This point represents the anus itself. It directly helps relieve local discomfort such as itching, swelling, or burning sensations.

When used together with the other three points, it completes the treatment by improving local circulation and relaxing tense muscles in the anal region.

TCM Benefit: Reduces local inflammation and promotes healing of the affected tissues.

How to Apply Ear Seeds

1. Clean your ear with a gentle alcohol or baby wipe.
2. Locate the points using the ear chart — aim to get as close as possible to the indicated spots.
3. Apply the ear seeds (crystal or vaccaria) using tweezers, pressing gently so they stick firmly.
4. Massage each seed for about 30 seconds, 2–3 times a day, to activate the acupressure effect.
5. Leave the seeds on for 3–5 days, then remove them and rest for a day or two before reapplying.

If one ear becomes sensitive, switch to the other ear during the next round.

Supporting TCM Healing from the Inside

Ear seeds work best when combined with simple daily habits that promote healthy Qi flow and digestion:

• Eat more fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, oats).
• Avoid spicy, oily, or fried food that creates internal heat.
• Drink warm water to improve digestion.
• Take short walks to prevent stagnation.
• Manage stress through deep breathing or light massage around the ear points.

A Gentle Path to Relief

Using ear seeds for hemorrhoids offers a natural and holistic approach to healing. By stimulating the Large Intestine, Rectum, Spleen, and Anus points, you not only relieve discomfort but also help your body restore internal balance.

With daily use and consistent care, most people begin to feel relief within a week or two. Remember, TCM focuses on treating the root cause — by supporting healthy digestion, improving circulation, and balancing Qi, you’re helping your body prevent hemorrhoids naturally.

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