'Tickling' the ear could be the secret to good health

'Tickling' the ear could be the secret to good health

Jul 31, 2019 11:35 IST

The ear is like a gateway through which we can alter the body's functions without the need for medication or invasive procedures, say scientists. A team of researchers from the Universities of Leeds and Glasgow decided to find out whether they could improve body functions like digestion, sleep pattern and breathing by 'tickling' the vagus nerve of the ear with small waves of electric current. After studying two small groups of participants, researchers concluded that rebalancing the body's control system could improve sleep and mood. They also believed that it might prevent certain age related conditions, including high blood pressure and heart disease. The results are just the tip of the iceberg, but researchers hope to investigate further into the potential long-term benefits of daily ear stimulation.