We often associate aging with hearing loss, but it’s important to note that hearing difficulties can affect anyone, regardless of age. Various factors can contribute to hearing loss, including exposure to loud work environments and chronic infections.
Conventional treatments usually fall into three categories: medication, surgery, and amplification devices. However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that focuses on managing symptoms and restoring balance to the body. One key tool in TCM is an acupoint known as Ear Gate (Er Men, TE21), often referred to as the “Grand Protector of the Ears.” This name is well-deserved, as studies show that it ranks among the top five most frequently used acupoints for relief from tinnitus.
What TCM Knew All Along
Er Men was first described in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing”—the earliest surviving text that systematically compiled acupuncture and moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) techniques. On the surface, its name “Ear Gate” might seem purely anatomical, reflecting its location above the ear canal. But in this case, the name also indicates the function of the acupoint. The “gate” here is a vital portal—allowing cool, moist qi (vital energy) to enter and the pathogenic heat to exit. This two-way exchange is critical, especially for sensitive regions like the ears.
Er Men is effective for a wide range of ear-related issues, including tinnitus, ear discharge (otorrhea), earaches, and even progressive hearing loss. This acupoint is particularly recommended for those showing early symptoms or those at risk, such as factory workers or older adults. TCM practitioners view Er Men as a treatment point as well as a preventative measure that helps protect and support healthy hearing as we age.
Modern Science Is Catching Up
While modern medicine doesn’t use the same language as TCM, researchers are exploring why stimulation of points like Er Men works. One clinical study tested electroacupuncture on patients with sudden hearing loss, dividing them into four groups. One group received only medication, while the others received medication combined with different types of electroacupuncture applied to acupoints, including Er Men.
All patients showed improvement, but the groups that received electroacupuncture improved significantly more than those who had medication alone. Most notably, the group that received mixed-frequency stimulation—called a “disperse-dense wave” (2 Hz/50 Hz)—had the highest cure rate and best results for symptoms like hearing loss and ear fullness. This suggests that stimulating the region around Er Men has real physiological effects, even when measured by modern standards like audiometric tests.
How to Locate and Activate Er Men
Finding Er Men is quite simple. Begin by opening your mouth slightly, as this helps expose the acupoint. Next, locate the small groove just in front of the bump near your ear called the supratragic notch. This point is located just behind the part of your jawbone that moves when you chew. It’s a spot slightly above the front of your ear canal that may feel sore or tender when pressed.
Ways to Activate Er Men for Maximum Effect
Here’s how to safely stimulate this point at home:
- Press: With your mouth slightly open, press firmly on Er Men for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: You can also massage it in gentle circles using your index finger or thumb—again, always with the mouth slightly open.
- Herbal patches: can be applied overnight for extended activation.
- Heat: For those who prefer not to use manual pressure, a warm hairdryer on low heat aimed at the point for 10 to 15 minutes can gently stimulate circulation and energy flow.
- Deeper treatment: A helpful option is acupuncture or moxibustion performed by a licensed TCM practitioner.
Precautions
Avoid using manual stimulation of this acupoint if you have injuries near the ear or jaw. If you opt for herbal patches, choose ones with natural ingredients and avoid aggressive artificial ingredients—especially if you have sensitive skin.
Hearing Health Is Worth the Effort
It’s a tired cliché that hearing loss is just a part of growing old—you don’t have to wait until the damage is done. Er Men offers a holistic way to support your ears, whether you’re dealing with active symptoms or just trying to stay ahead of the curve. By stimulating this acupoint regularly, you’re not only addressing potential hearing issues—you’re also practicing mindful self-care.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 22 Apr 2025
