One of the longest nerves in the body is known as the vagus nerve (VN). The VN is the 10th pair of cranial nerves that originates at the brain stem in the medulla oblongata. This nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a part of the ANS. Research suggests ear acupuncture can activate the VN.
Harvey Kaltsas, AP, Dipl. Ac., Past President, AAAOM
Dr. Harvey Kaltsas was president of AAAOM from 1992-1994, served as chair of the Florida Board of Acupuncture from 1987-1991, and was vice chair from 1999-2001. He is in private practice in Sarasota, Fla. and is currently authoring books on gua sha massage and the dangers of X-rays.