Ear seeds, for the days between visits
Ear seeds are tiny seeds or beads stuck to small pieces of tape and placed on points of the ear. You press them yourself, a few times a day, for a few days.
They are a good fit on days when needles are not right, and for the days between visits. Some people notice a difference and some do not. They are used alongside your oncology care.
What a visit is like, in order
Afterward you may notice a little tenderness where you press. Take any seed off that bothers you.
- 01
Step 1: We talk
About your week, your skin and whether you are sensitive to tape.
- 02
Step 2: We place
Two to four seeds on each ear, each with a small piece of tape.
- 03
Step 3: You press
Gently, for about a minute at a time, when you think of it.
- 04
Step 4: They come off
After a few days, in the shower, and we check the skin next visit.
Tell us first
Say any of these when you book, and again at the visit.
A tape or adhesive allergy
Say so. We can use a different tape, or skip the seeds.
Sensitive or broken skin
We do not place seeds on skin that is red, sore or healing.
Radiation near the head or neck
We choose placements with your oncology team's guidance.
Low blood counts
Tell us, and we keep the pressure gentle.
Pregnancy
Some ear points are avoided in pregnancy.
A pacemaker or other device
Seeds are fine, but tell us so we know.
How many visits, and what this does not do
We look at your ear at each visit and decide whether to continue. Most people wear a set of seeds for a few days before taking them off.
Ear seeds do not replace your oncology care. If an ear becomes red, hot, swollen or sore, take the seeds off and call us. For a fever, call your oncology team the same day.
Ask about ear seeds
Book a first visit, or call to talk it through. Fees are explained on the how fees work page.