Tinnitus is often perceived as a minor issue—until you experience it yourself. The ringing or buzzing in your ears can disrupt sleep, concentration, and, in severe cases, even mental health. It affects up to 30 percent of the global population and becomes more prevalent with age.
Modern medicine has not reached a consensus on a singular treatment for tinnitus, which is why many people seek alternative solutions, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). If you haven’t explored Hearing Palace (Ting Gong, SI19), an acupoint next to your ear canal, it might be worth considering.
Understanding the Rationale Behind Ting Gong’s Effectiveness
First mentioned in the ancient acupuncture text “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), Ting Gong is widely used in clinical practice. It serves as the exit point on the Small Intestine meridian, where the body’s internal energy interacts with external natural forces. One of the guiding principles in TCM is that acupoints are effective for treating conditions located along their corresponding meridians (energy pathways). Since the Small Intestine meridian runs close to the ears, jaw, and cheekbones, Ting Gong is well-positioned to address issues that arise in those areas.More Than Just Tinnitus Relief
Let’s begin with Ting Gong’s most obvious function. A 2024 data mining study showed that Ting Gong is the most commonly used acupressure point for tinnitus. However, its benefits extend beyond tinnitus. It is frequently incorporated into acupuncture protocols for a variety of ear-related issues, including hearing loss, ear discharge (otorrhea), and inflammation of the middle ear.Positioned at the junction where the lower jaw connects to the skull, Ting Gong is also effective for addressing jaw mobility issues, trigeminal nerve pain, and toothaches. In many cases, practitioners also utilize this point to alleviate ear fullness or pain associated with jaw dysfunction.
What Science Is Finding
Modern medicine is investigating the biological mechanisms that contribute to the effectiveness of traditional acupoints. A recent study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2019 examined how electroacupuncture at Ting Gong and Baihui (GV20) could address inner ear swelling, also known as endolymphatic hydrops. This condition is associated with Ménière’s disease and various forms of hearing loss and balance disorders.In a controlled experiment, guinea pigs with hormone-induced inner ear swelling received electroacupuncture treatment at these two acupoints. The results were remarkable: Ting Gong helped reduce fluid buildup, preserved the tissue structure of the inner ear, and regulated fluid-balancing hormones. In summary, Ting Gong didn’t just alleviate symptoms—it improved the physical condition of the inner ear at the molecular level.
How to Locate and Stimulate Ting Gong
Ting Gong is located just in front of the ear canal, in the depression that appears when you open your mouth, right between the tragus, the small pointed prominence at the opening of your ear canal. It’s easy to find with a gentle press—if your mouth is slightly open, your finger will naturally fall into the hollow.How to Stimulate Ting Gong
Keep your mouth open when using manual stimulation techniques to activate Ting Gong:- Firm pressure: Press with your fingertip for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Use your index finger or thumb to massage the area in small circles for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patches: Use an herbal patch overnight to stimulate the area continuously.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid using this acupoint if there’s an active skin infection, injury, or irritation in the area. If you’re using herbal patches, choose ones made with natural ingredients, and be cautious if you have sensitive skin.Pairing for Best Results
In clinical practice, Ting Gong is often used together with two nearby points: Wind Screen (Yi Feng, TE17) and Auditory Convergence (Ting Hui, GB2). This trio covers the full ear region and can significantly improve the outcomes of tinnitus and hearing issues. If you’re doing self-care massage, consider activating all three points.Holistic Hearing Support
You can effectively manage your tinnitus. While it may not vanish overnight, tools like Ting Gong can offer more options for immediate relief and long-term support for your hearing health. Whether you’re exposed to noise daily, dealing with jaw tension, or simply want to take proactive steps to support aging ears, Ting Gong is a helpful ally. Sometimes the most effective healing starts with tuning into your body and giving it extra care.TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
