Acupuncture
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EX-HN-6
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.1-0.2 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Ear
Location
On the apex of the ear.
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and reduces swelling
- Benefits the eyes and throat
Indications
Mumps
Fever
Eye pain
Red eyes
Throat pain
Eye swelling
Throat swelling
Migraine headache
Superficial visual obstruction
Commentary
Erjian EX-HN-10 is not a major point. Its main function is to clear Heat so as to remove swellings, especially on eyes and throat.
It is also mentioned by some books to treat superficial visual obstruction.
Classical Sources
Classical texts describe Erjian as a point for clearing heat and draining fire from the head and eyes. The Qian Jin Yao Fang (Thousand Golden Essential Prescriptions) mentions ear apex bloodletting for eye diseases and fever conditions.
Modern clinical texts note: "The ear apex is at the highest point of the auricle when folded forward, occupying a yang position, and bloodletting here can accelerate local blood circulation and promote resolution of inflammatory responses."
How to Locate
Fold the ear anteriorly, so that the posterior portion of the upper helix covers its anterior part. The point is located at the highest point of the fold.
Caution
This point is primarily used for bloodletting rather than regular needling. Use sterile technique and ensure proper hemostasis after bleeding (3-5 drops). Avoid in patients with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant therapy. The cartilage area has limited blood supply - avoid infection by using proper aseptic technique. Minor side effects may include local hematoma or temporary redness/swelling at the puncture site.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1-0.2 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.1–0.2 cun
Expected Deqi Sensation
Sharp pricking sensation during bloodletting. When needling (rarely done), mild local distension. Most commonly treated with bloodletting which produces immediate relief of heat symptoms.
Moxibustion
Questionable
Duration: 5-10 minutes (indirect only)
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Particularly Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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