The Zang that relates to the ears is the Kidneys. Therefore, it is possible to get an impression of the state of the Kidneys through observation of the ears.
| (a) | An ear that appears fleshy and has a normal luster and color indicates a healthy state of Yuan Qi. | |
| (b) | Color and sheen: | |
| (i) | Pale ears can be an indication of Cold. | |
| (ii) | Blue–black ears can appear with pain. | |
| (iii) | Red veins on the back side of the ears may be a sign of the onset of measles. | |
| (c) | More detailed observation and palpation of specific points and areas on the inside and outside of the auricle are used to select ear acupuncture points when ear acupuncture is chosen as a treatment modality. | |