Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be explained from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as an imbalance of energy or “qi” in the body. According to TCM theory, the body is governed by a network of channels or meridians through which qi flows. When this flow of qi is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to various health problems, including tinnitus.
In TCM, tinnitus is often associated with two main causes: Kidney deficiency and Liver Qi stagnation.
Kidney deficiency refers to a lack of vitality or energy in the body’s Kidney system, which includes not only the kidneys themselves but also the adrenal glands, reproductive organs, and other related structures. From this perspective, tinnitus may be seen as a symptom of Kidney deficiency, indicating that the body’s overall energy reserves are low. This type of tinnitus is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and lower back pain.
Liver Qi stagnation, on the other hand, is a condition where the flow of energy in the Liver system is blocked or stagnant. This can be caused by factors such as stress, emotional tension, or poor diet. Tinnitus associated with Liver Qi stagnation is typically characterized by a high-pitched ringing sound, as well as symptoms such as irritability, headaches, and menstrual irregularities (in women).
Treatment for tinnitus in TCM typically involves identifying the underlying cause of the condition and addressing any imbalances in the body’s energy flow. This may involve a combination of herbal remedies, acupuncture, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction techniques or exercise.
15 Acupoints for Tinnitus in details
Acupuncture is a common treatment for tinnitus in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The following are 15 acupoints that may be used to treat tinnitus:
GB20 (Fengchi): Located at the base of the skull, in the hollow just behind the earlobe. This point is often used for headaches and neck pain, which are common accompanying symptoms of tinnitus.
SJ17 (Yifeng): Located behind the earlobe, in a depression between the jawbone and the mastoid process. This point is commonly used for tinnitus, as well as vertigo and ear infections.
GB2 (Tinghui): Located in a depression in front of the ear, at the level of the earlobe. This point is often used for ear problems, including tinnitus.
SI19 (Tinggong): Located in front of the ear, in a depression between the cheekbone and the jawbone. This point is commonly used for tinnitus, as well as ear infections and deafness.
SJ21 (Ermen): Located on the top of the ear, in the depression between the ear and the temple. This point is often used for tinnitus, as well as ear pain and itching.
SI3 (Houxi): Located on the back of the hand, in the depression between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones. This point is commonly used for tinnitus, as well as headaches and neck pain.
LU7 (Lieque): Located on the wrist, on the radial side of the styloid process of the ulna bone. This point is often used for respiratory problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
KI3 (Taixi): Located on the inner ankle, in the depression between the Achilles tendon and the ankle bone. This point is often used for kidney-related problems, including tinnitus.
LR3 (Taichong): Located on the foot, in the depression between the first and second metatarsal bones. This point is often used for liver-related problems, including tinnitus.
ST36 (Zusanli): Located on the leg, below the knee and one finger width lateral to the tibial crest. This point is often used for digestive problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Located on the inner leg, four finger widths above the inner ankle bone. This point is often used for gynecological problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
CV3 (Zhongji): Located on the lower abdomen, four finger widths below the navel. This point is often used for urinary problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
GV20 (Baihui): Located on the top of the head, at the intersection of the midline and a line connecting the apexes of the ears. This point is often used for mental problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
GV23 (Shangxing): Located on the forehead, in the midpoint between the eyebrows. This point is often used for mental problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus.
PC6 (Neiguan): Located on the wrist, two finger widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons. This point is often used for heart-related problems, but can also be effective for tinnitus