Acupuncture has long been used as a supplemental or complementary medical practice to treat a wide range of conditions. In the field of substance use treatment, providers have adopted a specific ear acupuncture protocol to assist clients on their path to recovery.
Acupuncture detoxification has been used extensively in substance use treatment programs throughout the US and the world for the past 30 years. Acudetox works for all cultures, races, genders, and ages and for all drugs. The clients can be in a group setting with each client getting assistance with their specific needs.
Acudetox is a five-point acupuncture protocol and a proven method to reduce cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. The ear acupuncture also relaxes the nervous system, calms emotions, and balances the energy levels in the body.
The acupuncture needles are gently placed in the ear at specific points. The process works through stimulation of cranial nerves passing through the ears en route to the rest of the body. The treatment takes between 30-45 minutes to take effect.
The five treatment points correlate with three major organs: lungs, liver, and kidneys. Often, these organs have been found to be affected by stress and ongoing substance use. The other two additional points of placement are for the sympathetic nervous system.
Here is a list of the five treatment points and how they work.
- Shen Men (Spirit Gate): A spot that stimulates the release of endorphins which reduce pain and elevate mood. Intensifies feelings of connection to a person’s spiritual self.
- Sympathetic Nervous System: A spot that relaxes muscles and the “fight or flight” mechanism.
- Kidney: A spot that provides access to emotional reserves, clears blood, and reduces fear.
- Liver: A spot that helps to detoxify the entire body and deal with unresolved feelings of anger.
- Lungs: Another detoxification spot, which also deals with feelings of grief. Helps to detoxify and restores joy.
The Haven has been providing acudetox since 2006 and our clients love it. Clients report that acudetox helps them manage post-acute withdrawal symptoms, cravings, using dreams, anxiety, depression, insomnia, body aches, and pains. Clients also receive Sleep Mix/Detox Tea after needles are removed and beads are administered. The seeds or metal beads are another part of the treatment, and they are just as effective as the acupuncture needles. The Haven also includes aromatherapy and healing music during the sessions.
Feedback from our clients
Amazing
“It was amazing, helped me a lot to lower my anxiety, it also lowered my usual nervous energy. I don’t feel depressed as often.” - S.A.
No more cravings
“It has impacted my recovery by helping prevent cravings and urges and the gold beads give me energy when needed; the silver beads relax my racing thoughts. NO more insomnia, cravings, or anxiety.” - N.N.
Meditation
“Helped me refine my skills in meditation; it helped my restless leg syndrome symptoms” - V.A.
Calmness
“Helps me with my cravings and being able to remain calm in bad situations.” - S.O.
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