Auricular Acupuncture - The 5 Needle Protocol
The NADA Protocol is a standardised form of auricular (ear) acupuncture that uses five specific points on the outer ear to support addiction recovery, stress reduction, trauma healing, and overall wellness.
What is the NADA Protocol?
The NADA Protocol (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association Protocol) was developed in the mid-1970s at Lincoln Hospital in New York by Dr. Michael Smith. It emerged as a simple, effective method to help people struggling with drug and alcohol withdrawal, and has since expanded into use for mental health, trauma, and stress management.
How It Works
Five ear points:
- Sympathetic – calms the nervous system and promotes relaxation.
- Shen Men (“Spirit Gate”) – reduces anxiety and nervousness.
- Kidney Point – supports internal organ health and calms fear.
- Liver Point – aids detoxification and helps manage anger.
- Lung Point – supports breathing and helps release grief.
Gentle insertion: Up to five fine, sterile needles are placed in the ear.
No electrical stimulation: The protocol relies solely on manual needling.
Endorphin release: Stimulates natural chemicals that reduce pain and stress
Benefits You May Experience
Addiction support: Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Stress relief: Calms the nervous system and lowers anxiety.
Trauma recovery: Used with survivors of war, disasters, and PTSD.
Cancer care support: Helps ease side effects of treatment.
Mental health balance: Supports emotional regulation and resilience.
Safety and Accessibility
The NADA Protocol is considered safe, gentle, and suitable for most people. Alternatives such as ear acupressure seeds can be used for those who prefer non-needle options.
In Summary
The NADA Protocol is a community-oriented, holistic approach that uses five simple ear points to help people manage addiction, trauma, stress, and emotional imbalance.