Table of Contents
Introduction to Auricular Acupuncture
Auricular acupuncture, or ear acupuncture, is a fascinating subset of acupuncture that focuses on points located within the ear. As a microsystem, the ear reflects the entire body, and points within it correspond to various organs, emotions, and physiological functions. This system has been utilized for centuries and has evolved into an evidence-based practice commonly used to address a wide range of conditions, including pain, stress, and addiction.
Introducing Shenmen
One of the most recognized points in auricular acupuncture is Shenmen, often referred to as the “Spirit Gate.” This point is highly regarded within the acupuncture community for its ability to calm the mind, alleviate stress, and regulate emotions. As one of the battlefield acupuncture points, Shenmen is frequently employed for its rapid effects in reducing pain and stress, making it invaluable in both clinical and emergency settings.
Location of Shenmen On The Ear
The Shenmen point is located in the triangular fossa of the ear, in the upper distal region of the fossa. Specifically, it lies at the apex of the triangular fossa, making it relatively easy to locate and needle or stimulate with acupressure.
Benefits of Shenmen
Shenmen is celebrated for its versatility and effectiveness in treating various conditions. Some of its most notable benefits include:
- Stress Relief and Emotional Regulation
Shenmen is often used to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, making it a go-to point for emotional balance. - Pain Management
In battlefield acupuncture protocols, Shenmen is frequently selected to provide rapid pain relief, addressing both acute and chronic conditions. - Sleep Improvement
By calming the spirit and soothing the nervous system, Shenmen is used to treat insomnia and other sleep disturbances. - Addiction Treatment
Shenmen is a cornerstone point in protocols like the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) technique, helping to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. - Immune System Support
This point is also associated with strengthening the immune system, aiding in the body’s natural defenses.
Clinical Perspective
In practice, Shenmen can be stimulated through needling, ear seeds, or acupressure. When used in combination with other auricular or body acupuncture points, its effects can really improve treatment outcomes. For example, pairing Shenmen with points like Yin Tang enhances its calming and regulatory functions.
Research on Auricular Acupuncture Point ShenMen
In 2013, a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine examined the effects of auricular acupuncture on postoperative autonomic nervous system activity, focusing on two key ear points: Shenmen and Point Zero. Researchers applied auricular acupuncture to 13 patients who had undergone hemicolectomy, while another 13 patients served as a control group. The acupuncture group received occlusive press needles at both points immediately after surgery, and heart rate variability (HRV) was monitored to assess changes in autonomic activity.
The results showed that patients who received auricular acupuncture maintained a stable balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity, with higher parasympathetic activation compared to the control group.1 This was evidenced by a lower low-frequency/high-frequency (LF/HF) ratio and significantly higher high-frequency (HF) values in the acupuncture group. The findings suggest that auricular acupuncture may help regulate the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress in postoperative patients. The authors proposed that this technique could be beneficial for addressing autonomic imbalances and related conditions such as agitation or anxiety.
Shenmen is a cornerstone of auricular acupuncture, renowned for its ability to calm the spirit and address a variety of physical and emotional conditions. Its accessibility and effectiveness make it a favorite among practitioners and patients alike. Whether used in battlefield acupuncture or as part of a holistic wellness plan, Shenmen exemplifies the power of auricular acupuncture to promote balance and healing.
- Arai YC, Sakakima Y, Kawanishi J, et al. Auricular acupuncture at the “shenmen” and “point zero” points induced parasympathetic activation. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:945063. doi:10.1155/2013/945063 ↩︎
Carlo St. Juste II, MAOM has a background in acupuncture with over 10 years of clinical experience, published author, and over 16 years in the Martial Arts. He has worked with various organizations to implement employee wellness programs and workshops including The City of West Covina, The City of Brea, Broadcom, University of Southern California (USC), American Suzuki, and Pomona College. He is dedicated to promoting integrative health and has seen the benefits of knowledge and implementation first hand.