Acupuncture has been used for centuries to promote balance, relieve pain, and support overall well-being. One specialized form of acupuncture, the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) 5-Point Protocol, also known as Acudetox, is a simple yet powerful treatment used worldwide for stress relief, trauma recovery, addiction support, and overall emotional well-being.

This protocol involves the insertion of five tiny, sterile acupuncture needles into specific points on each ear. These points correspond to different organs and functions within the body, making this treatment a holistic and non-invasive way to support mental and physical health.

Each of the five points used in this protocol plays a unique role in restoring balance and promoting healing. Let’s explore each point in detail:

1. Sympathetic Point – Calming the Nervous System

The Sympathetic point regulates the autonomic nervous system, helping to bring the body into a state of relaxation. It:

• Reduces stress and tension

• Calms the fight-or-flight response

• Helps with pain management

• Supports emotional stability

This point is particularly helpful for those experiencing anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress, as it helps shift the body from a heightened state of alertness to a more relaxed, parasympathetic state.

2. Shen Men – The “Spirit Gate” for Emotional Balance

Shen Men, also called the “Spirit Gate,” is one of the most powerful ear acupuncture points for emotional and psychological well-being. It:

• Helps alleviate anxiety, depression, and emotional distress

• Enhances clarity and focus

• Reduces cravings associated with addiction

• Promotes a deep sense of inner peace

This point is essential in addiction recovery programs, as it helps people manage stress and emotional triggers that may lead to substance use or other compulsive behaviors.

3. Kidney Point – Strengthening Vital Energy and Overcoming Fear

In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are associated with fear, insecurity, and willpower. When kidney energy is weak, a person may experience fearfulness, lack of motivation, and feelings of anxiety about the future.

Functions of the Kidney Point:

• Strengthens willpower and determination

• Reduces fear, insecurity, and anxiety

• Supports adrenal function and energy levels

• Aids in detoxification and fluid balance

This point is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, and fear-based emotions, helping them feel more grounded and resilient.

4. Liver Point – Detoxification and Emotional Release

The Liver point is essential for detoxification and processing emotions, particularly anger, frustration, and resentment. In traditional Chinese medicine, the liver is considered the organ that stores and regulates emotions, making this point crucial for both physical detox and emotional balance.

Functions of the Liver Point:

• Supports liver function and detoxification

• Helps release anger, frustration, and irritability

• Aids in processing repressed emotions

• Supports hormonal balance and digestion

Since anger and emotional stagnation can lead to tension, headaches, and digestive issues, stimulating this point helps release built-up stress and promotes a greater sense of emotional flow and balance.

5. Lung Point – Letting Go of Grief and Sadness

The Lung point is closely tied to grief, sadness, and the ability to let go. When lung energy is imbalanced, a person may struggle with holding onto past pain, deep sadness, or difficulty processing loss.

Functions of the Lung Point:

• Helps release grief and emotional pain

• Strengthens the respiratory system

• Supports immune function and oxygen circulation

• Encourages deep breathing and relaxation

This point is especially beneficial for those who have experienced loss, trauma, or prolonged sadness, allowing them to breathe freely—both physically and emotionally.

Pain Level: Does It Hurt?

The needles used in Acudetox are extremely fine, much smaller than medical needles. Most people feel only a slight pinch or pressure when the needles are inserted. Once they are in place, many experience a deep sense of relaxation, warmth, or even a floating sensation.

Duration of Treatment:

• Needles remain in the ears for 30-45 minutes while the person relaxes in a calm setting.

• Treatments are done both in group settings in addiction recovery centers, trauma relief programs, and wellness clinics, or privately.

How Often Should You Do Acudetox?

• For detox and addiction recovery, treatments can be done daily or several times per week to manage withdrawal symptoms and emotional imbalances.

• For stress relief, anxiety, and general wellness, two to three sessions per week may be enough.

• For chronic conditions, the treatment frequency varies, but some people benefit from weekly or biweekly sessions as ongoing support.

Because Acudetox stimulates deep detoxification, some people may experience mild detox symptoms as the body begins to release stored toxins and emotions. These may include:

• Fatigue or sleepiness

• Mild headaches

• Increased urination or bowel movements

• Temporary emotional shifts (crying, mood swings, or feeling “lighter”)

• Sweating or slight dizziness

These symptoms are temporary and a sign that the body is rebalancing and releasing toxins. Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and eating nourishing foods can help ease the detox process.

Many report immediate feelings of relaxation and emotional relief after just one session. With regular treatments, people experience:

• Improved sleep

• Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms

• Better stress management

• Emotional stability and mental clarity

• Enhanced lung, liver, and kidney function

• Relief from anxiety, PTSD, and trauma-related symptoms

This treatment is widely used for:

• Addiction Recovery: Helps manage withdrawal symptoms and emotional triggers - along with therapy

• PTSD & Trauma: Used by veterans, abuse survivors, and first responders to process trauma.

• Anxiety & Depression: Provides natural relief without medication.

• Smoking Cessation: Reduces cravings and supports lung health.

• Chronic Stress & Fatigue: Helps with burnout, emotional overwhelm, and tension.

Understanding the Contraindications

Acudetox, or ear acupuncture for detoxification, is a gentle and natural way to support relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being. While many people find it beneficial, it’s not the right fit for everyone. If you’re considering Acudetox, it’s good to know when it might not be the best option.

When Acudetox Should Be Avoided

For some people, Acudetox isn’t recommended due to certain health conditions. Here are the main cases where it’s best to skip this treatment:

Definite No Go:

• Bleeding Disorders or Blood Thinners – If you have a condition like hemophilia or take strong blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin), acupuncture could lead to excessive bleeding or bruising.

• Severe Fear of Needles – If needles make you extremely anxious or cause panic, Acudetox may not be a comfortable experience.

• Ear Infections or Open Wounds – Any active infections, cuts, or skin issues on the ear should be fully healed before acupuncture.

Proceed with Caution:

Some situations don’t automatically rule out Acudetox, but it’s best to check with a professional first:

• Pregnancy – While acupuncture is sometimes used in pregnancy, certain points could stimulate uterine contractions. A trained practitioner can adjust the treatment if needed.

• Breastfeeding – Since Acudetox supports detoxification, there’s a small chance that mobilized toxins could enter breast milk. If you’re nursing, talk to a healthcare provider before trying it.

• Severe Mental Health Conditions – Acudetox can be supportive for anxiety and PTSD, but if you have conditions like schizophrenia or unmanaged bipolar disorder, it’s best to consult a doctor first.

• Chronic Illness or Weak Immune System – If you’re dealing with a serious illness or have a compromised immune system, Acudetox may be too much for your body to handle.

• Recent Surgery or Recovery from a Medical Procedure – Your body is already in healing mode, so adding a detox process might not be ideal.

• Low Blood Pressure – Acupuncture can sometimes cause lightheadedness, which may be an issue if you’re prone to dizziness or fainting.

Acudetox is a great tool for relaxation and wellness, but it’s not for everyone. If you have any concerns, checking with a healthcare provider or an experienced acupuncturist is always a good idea. That way, you can make sure you’re choosing the best approach for your health and well-being.

The length of Acudetox treatment varies depending on individual needs:

• Addiction & Detox Programs: 3-6 weeks of frequent sessions, then tapering as needed. Addiction works best when done in conjunction with supportive rehab therapy

• PTSD & Trauma Recovery: Long-term treatment (weeks to months), with sessions reducing in frequency as symptoms improve.

• General Wellness & Stress Management: Ongoing or as needed (weekly, biweekly, or monthly).

Some people incorporate Acudetox as a regular part of their wellness routine, while others use it during particularly stressful times or as support through healing transitions.

The NADA 5-Point Acudetox Protocol is a gentle, effective, and non-invasive way to promote healing from the inside out. By targeting key energy centers in the ear, this treatment provides mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical relief, making it an excellent complementary therapy for those on a journey of recovery, self-care, and transformation.

Would you like to experience the benefits of Acudetox? Book a session today and take the first step toward a more balanced, peaceful, and detoxified state of being.