Auriculotherapy is similar to ear acupuncture but does not use needles. A micro-current stimulator is placed on reflex points outside the ear, which send messages to the brain depending on the location of the reflex points being treated. With auriculotherapy, we treat multiple problems and conditions related to substance use disorders, trauma and compulsive and behavioral disorders such as anxiety, depression and cravings. It is also a proven smoking cessation therapy.

The Research

Two separate randomized studies, three years apart involving auriculotherapy vs. a capsule placebo control group, carried out in a residential treatment setting.

• Better retention rates in drug rehabilitation–up to 97%–with the use of auriculotherapy.

• An 80% decrease in anxiety, depression and cravings in those with substance use disorders, compulsive and impulsive disorders.

ACACD Treatment Outcomes Published by Nature in Molecular Psychiatry, Vol.6, Feb’01