Keep your eyes on your ears
Ear acupuncture has long been recognized in TCM and is widely used for the treatment of many conditions of the whole body. Observing the ear for its luster, color and other aspects can be a valuable diagnostic tool. A healthy person’s ears are usually thick, pink and glossy, indicating good qi flow and blood circulation.
Pale ears suggest pathogenic cold problems. If chronically pale, this indicates a yin constitution, with a dislike of cold weather, drinks, etc.
Red flushed ears indicate fire-ascending problems, such as anger, excessive thirst, headaches, ear ringing, insomnia and constipation.
Dark ears show intense pain, such as stomach and intestinal problems, or angina.
Thin earsindicate deficient kidney qi. If the ears are thin, withered and dark, this usually shows a severe yin kidney deficiency. The person is physically thin, and may suffer dizziness, ear-ringing, sore back and knees, night sweats, hot palms and foot arches, fatigue and reproductive problems.
Abnormal bumps or depressions may be signs of cancer or liver disease. Abnormal raised blood vessels of the ear may indicate asthma or coronary heart disease.
Any kind of infection, pimple, infection, or swelling of the ear can indicate an imbalance in one or more organs of your body. If in doubt, have your ears looked at next time you have an acupuncture treatment.