The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve and one of the main drivers of the parasympathetic nervous system. Stretching from the brain down to the upper part of your colon, it touches nearly every major organ along the way and influences autonomic functions like heart rate, digestion, breathing, and even how we respond to stress.
Stimulating this nerve — a therapy that is known as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) — has been linked to potential benefits like reduced pain and stress and improved sleep. Naturally, more and more people are exploring VNS in hopes of tapping into these benefits. And while there are a few ways to stimulate the vagus nerve, it’s the at-home devices, non-invasive devices that are meant solely for home use, that have really grown in popularity.
But the important thing is these devices are general wellness products, not medical devices, which means they aren't subject to the same strict regulatory oversight. That’s why it’s especially important to find one that truly aligns with your needs. To help you with that, I reviewed 10 popular models and identified the five I believe are the best vagus nerve stimulation devices right now.
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Best vagus nerve stimulation device: shortlist
- Best price: Pulsetto
- Best alternative: Apollo
- Best all-around: Nurosym
- Best for stress relief: Sensate
- Best for multifunctional use: Hoolest
Best vagus nerve stimulation devices: our picks explained
Every vagus nerve stimulator is unique, and finding the right one can make all the difference in the world. So, here I have laid out what I think each device is best at to help you figure out which one of them might be the best fit for what you are looking for.
Starting off, if you are simply after a reliable device that's also reasonably priced, Pulsetto looks to be the practical choice — it doesn’t appear to compromise on performance and comes at a lower cost than many competitors.
Now, if you are not strictly settled on a vagus nerve stimulator but are generally looking for a device that targets those same outcomes, Apollo would be the perfect alternative. It works by delivering silent, soothing sound wave vibrations through touch. And what's also great about it is that it's designed to be worn all day, so you can use it for any occasion, at any time.
For something more well-rounded, I would point you to Nurosym — a transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulator (taVNS) device that seems to check most boxes, from commitment to scientific validation and sleek design to environmental responsibility. Keep in mind, however, that those checked boxes may come at a price.
For a person who's specifically looking for stress relief, Sensate would be my recommendation. It’s an innovative relaxation device that uses sound waves to produce low-frequency vibrations. In preliminary studies, it’s been shown to reduce self-reported stress and anxiety levels while also supporting better sleep and overall well-being.
And finally, if practicality ranks high on your list, Hoolest is definitely worth a closer look. Unlike many others, it’s portable enough to use while walking or doing light stretches. So, if you are frequently on the move, it could be a good option.
Best vagus nerve stimulation device in 2025: overview
Several devices I initially considered but ultimately decided not to feature claimed to stimulate or tone the vagus nerve, but their proposed mechanisms and stimulation locations lacked solid scientific backing.
In my research, I tried to focus more on devices designed to stimulate either the auricular or cervical branches of the vagus nerve, which are connected to the ear and neck areas. These sites are the most researched and are recognized in the literature as the most accessible sites for external vagus nerve stimulation. But at the same time, I didn’t rule out devices using alternative methods to receive similar benefits, some of which I found really promising.
I then evaluated the final five devices based on specific criteria, which I’ll detail later in the article. You will also come to find that each device is tagged with a specific nomination to highlight its strengths. This, again, I did to make it easier for you to find the device that best fits your needs.
1. Pulsetto — best price
For those interested in benefiting from vagus nerve stimulation without spending a fortune, there's Pulsetto. It's a wearable tVNS device that, despite its lower price point, doesn't seem to compromise on performance.
The device itself is powered by the Pulsetto application, which is relatively easy to use and includes five stimulation programs with nine stimulation levels. These programs are designed to address the following:
- Anxiety
- Burnout
- Pain management
- Sleep
- Stress
You can adjust the stimulation intensity via the app at any point during your relaxation session.
Pulsetto, as explained on the brand's website, should be worn around the neck. For optimal performance, make sure to use electrode gel first, which acts as a conductive medium to help the electrical pulses reach your skin as intended. Since the device is neck-wearable, you can use it while relaxing, working, or stretching.
Though Pulsetto is designed to be adjustable for different neck sizes — having tested it ourselves — we cannot help but note that the device might not be the best choice for those with slender necks, as it may simply be too big. This could prevent the electrodes from making proper contact with the skin, which is necessary for effective vagus nerve stimulation.
Who might benefit the most from Pulsetto?
If you are just starting out with vagus nerve stimulation or are curious about the benefits but don’t want to spend a lot upfront, Pulsetto would be a great option for you. You’ll find it costs less than most of its competitors.
Key features
- Runs on the Pulsetto app
- Five stimulation programs
- Nine stimulation levels
- Worn around the neck
Company review
Pulsetto is a team of what they call leading experts in the fields of sleep and neuromodulation. Using the latest science and technology, it's a company that's on a mission to help people worldwide manage stress, discomfort, and sleep issues.
Brief summary of Pulsetto
Pulsetto only costs $244.00, a price point that is actually the lowest on this list. The device also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.
2. Apollo — best alternative
The Apollo Wearable is registered as a transcutaneous vibratory stimulation device, so it isn't technically a vagus nerve stimulation device, but it may provide similar benefits.
Apollo is a smart wearable equipped with seven modes designed to address specific needs such as relaxation, sleep, and focus. You can control all of these through the Apollo Neuro mobile app, which continues to run even in Airplane mode. Switching to it takes just a few taps on the screen.
Using non-invasive touch therapy, Apollo sends low-frequency vibrations that engage touch receptors in the skin. These receptors are believed to influence the nervous system by activating pathways linked to both somatosensory and emotional regulation. This stimulation may help promote specific physiological states, such as relaxation.
Some of the benefits highlighted by both the creators and users include improved sleep, enhanced performance, reduced stress, and even better social interactions.
Who might benefit the most from Apollo?
One of the things that’s great about Apollo is that it is designed for all-day wear — you can wear it just like a watch or even clip it to your clothes. This makes it really versatile and allows you to use it in a variety of situations at any time, especially when you might need therapy the most.
Key features
- Supports 7 modes
- Works with Apollo Neuro app
- Fully operational without your phone
- Designed for all-day wear
Company review
Apollo Neuroscience is a company that positions itself as a leader in a new category of wearable technology intended to improve health. Their mission is to help the human body adapt to the demands of modern life by using touch therapy to improve stress resilience, sleep, focus, recovery, and more.
Brief summary of Apollo
Apollo is a wearable device that uses non-invasive touch therapy to promote relaxation, sleep, focus, and stress reduction. It operates by sending gentle vibrations to stimulate touch receptors in the skin. Apollo supports seven modes but can also run in Airplane mode. It’s designed for all-day wear and may be worn on your wrist, ankle, or clipped to clothes. At the moment, Apollo sells for $349.00 and is covered by both a 30-day money-back guarantee and a full year of warranty coverage.
3. Nurosym — best all-around
After extensively researching the market for VNS devices, I found one that particularly impressed me. Here's why I believe Nurosym by Parasym, a taVNS device, is the best all-around option on our list.
According to its makers, Nurosym is designed for those battling anxiety, depression, stress, and fatigue. It leverages innovative neuromodulation — to put it simply, the device uses signals transmitted through an earpiece to the brain via the vagus nerve. This process may modulate nervous system activity and potentially support various aspects of physical and mental health.
Nurosym's commitment to scientific validation is a major reason why it's so highly ranked on this list. The device is currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial. What further solidifies this commitment is that the research version of Nurosym, known as the Parasym device, has already been tested in several clinical trials and is a CE-certified medical device in Europe.
But the reasons don’t end there. Another reassuring aspect of Nurosym is the confidence the company has in its product. They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try it risk-free. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can get a no-questions-asked refund.
The brand's environmental responsibility is another highlight. Parasym donates 1% of all sales to grassroots environmental groups, so purchasing a Nurosym means contributing to a greater cause.
Who might benefit the most from Nurosym?
If you are not just looking for a standard vagus nerve stimulation device but want a well-rounded option, I would recommend starting with Nurosym. It seems to tick most of the boxes and, from a quality standpoint, really feels like a top-tier device compared to the others.
- Works through an earpiece
- Currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial, with several others already completed
- Research version of Nurosym is a CE-certified medical device
- Company donates 1% of all sales to grassroots environmental groups
Company review
Nurosym is a company that, after years of research and development with leading clinical research centers, created a product they believed was missing — an easy-to-use home therapy that, according to them, doesn’t compromise on effectiveness.
Brief summary of Nurosym
All things considered, if you are someone who’s looking for a reliable device to help you in your efforts to manage anxiety, stress, and other related issues, I think Nurosym should be the first one you consider. The only notable drawback is its price point — Nurosym is available for $700.00, which is on the higher side compared to similar models.
4. Sensate — best for stress relief
Sensate is another relaxation device that makes its way onto our rankings despite not being a typical vagus nerve stimulator. See, Sensate is not a vagus nerve stimulation device in the clinical sense, as it does not use electrical impulses to directly stimulate the vagus nerve. Instead, it employs low-frequency sound vibrations delivered to the chest, which are believed to indirectly influence vagal tone by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system.
The way Sensate works is also a little different. It all starts with the design, which is pebble-shaped and intended to be placed directly on your chest — the only area of use for the device. The idea behind this, according to the brand, is that the technology in Sensate turns your chest, which houses the heart and lungs, into a sort of resonating chamber that then allows the vibrations to influence vagus nerve activity.
Who might benefit the most from Sensate?
In a preliminary study by Sensate Inc. with 25 participants, daily use of the device over a two-week period was shown to significantly decrease self-reported stress and anxiety levels, while also improving sleep and overall well-being.
So, going not just by advertising but also by these early findings, Sensate may be most beneficial for people looking for stress and anxiety relief. That said, larger-scale studies are needed before we can fully rely on what the initial results suggest.
Key features
- Pebble-shaped design
- Runs on infrasonic technology
- Supports custom soundscapes and vibrations
- Works with the Sensate app
Company review
Sensate is a technology company that operates as a developer of a relaxation device for stress and anxiety management. Their flagship — and currently only — product is the Sensate wearable device.
Brief summary of Sensate
Sensate is a relaxation device that is designed for stress and anxiety relief. It uses low-frequency sound wave vibrations instead of electrical impulses like VNS devices. Sensate works by being placed on the chest area, where it aims to activate the body's relaxation response. Preliminary trial by Sensate Inc. hint at benefits for stress, anxiety, and sleep. While the Sensate device is priced at $299.00 for the device, including a lanyard and basic app access, a Sensate Plus Pack with 1 year subscription to Sensate Plus with full access to all soundscapes in the app sits at $349.00. Options for full app access or a discounted two-device bundle are also available. It comes with a 40-day return window and a 1-year warranty.
5. Hoolest — best for multifunctional use
While Hoolest offers two tVNS devices — the VeRelief Mini and the VeRelief Prime — we focus on the latter, which is larger and has a higher power output.
Hoolest VeRelief Prime is a handheld electrode device that targets more than just the vagus nerve. According to its makers, it can stimulate the vagus nerve behind your ear, the median nerve in your wrist, and the trigeminal nerve in your forehead. This is why we consider it one of the most multifunctional devices on our list.
We found the different stimulation protocols Hoolest offers particularly useful. They range from quick sessions of less than two minutes, perfect when combined with breathing techniques, to a calming 10-minute protocol ideal before bed. The five functional modes, each varying in intensity, are suggested to enhance the parasympathetic nervous system activity and help you achieve the following effects:
- Enhance relaxation
- Improve mood
- Reduce heart rate
What might benefit the most from Hoolest?
Are you already more advanced in vagus nerve stimulation? Or perhaps you want to go beyond the vagus nerve and explore stimulating other nerves, like the median or trigeminal nerve? If that sounds like you, Hoolest might be the right choice for you since it claims to offer that capability.
Key features
- Handheld
- Designed to also stimulate the median and trigeminal nerves
- Different stimulation protocols
- Five functional modesd
Company review
Hoolest was born out of the frustration of dealing with anxiety and sleep problems that mindfulness practices and other wellness devices just couldn’t fix. The company is dedicated to finding better, drug-free ways for people to improve their stress recovery and mental health.
Brief summary of Hoolest
Considering all that Hoolest has to offer, if you are on the lookout for a highly functional and adaptable tVNS device, VeRelief Prime, priced at $299.00, looks to me like the go-to choice. The brand backs its product with a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty.
Comparing the best vagus nerve stimulation devices
| Brand | Standard product price | Technology used | App integration | Money-back guarantee | Warranty | Best for |
| Pulsetto | $244.00 | Transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation (tcVNS) | Yes | 30-day | 2 years | Best price |
| Apollo | $349.00 | Transcutaneous vibratory stimulation through silent vibrations | Yes | 30-day | 1 year | Best alternative |
| Nurosym | $700.00 | taVNS | No | 30-day | 2 years | Best all-around |
| Sensate | 299.00 | Infrasonic frequency vibration | Yes | 40-day | 1 year | Best for stress relief |
| Hoolest | $299.00 | tcVNS | No | 60-day | 1 year | Best for multifunctional use |
Trends and growth of vagus nerve stimulation devices
Interest in VNS has grown rapidly in recent years, both in clinical settings and among everyday wellness users. According to a market analysis report by Grand View Research, the global VNS market was valued at $434.4 million in 2022 and is projected to more than double, reaching $970.6 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.61%.
And while implantable devices currently dominate the market — accounting for over 59% of the revenue in 2022 — it’s the external, non-invasive VNS (nVNS) segment that’s expected to grow fastest, with a projected CAGR of 11.9% between 2023 and 2030.
Several factors appear to be propelling this upward trajectory, including the demand for non-invasive and cost-effective therapies, shifting patient preferences, and the introduction of newer devices for commercial use. The increasing prevalence of neurological conditions like epilepsy, depression, and migraine, along with the greater adoption of minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures, are also key drivers fueling this growth.
Though concrete data on at-home nVNS devices is limited, their momentum is clear — reflected in Google Trends, increased visibility across wellness platforms, and widespread adoption by biohackers, mindfulness communities, and all of those seeking effective solutions to addressing stress and sleep issues.
How have we ranked the best vagus nerve devices?
Together with the WellnessPulse Research team, I spent around 30 hours putting this ranking together. A big part of that time went into unpacking the science behind vagus nerve stimulation and weighing each device in light of that research. Below, I outline the specific criteria that shaped our rankings.
| Features | Design | User interface | Price point |
| Modes and programs | Low profile and compact | Clear controls | Based on market comparison |
- Features. I looked into what modes and programs, if any, the vagus nerve stimulators support and how user-friendly they are.
- Design. I made it a priority to include devices that allow you to focus on vagus nerve stimulation without getting bogged down by complicated designs. I also considered how portable each device is.
- User interface. I know that clear controls are essential for a positive user experience. That’s why I made it a point to avoid overly complex devices and to choose ones that are simple, practical, and can save you time.
- Price point. During my research, I tried to narrow down the typical price range for a vagus nerve stimulation device. From there, I made sure to include devices that suit different budgets.
Expert opinion
As a steadily growing research field, non-invasive or transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been explored for a variety of health issues. As the research has progressed, several VNS systems or devices have been approved or cleared by the FDA.
However, generalizations and broad statements like "vagus nerve stimulation is FDA approved" can mislead readers into thinking all such devices are equally safe and effective. That's why it's so important to first understand the difference between FDA approval and FDA clearance when it comes to medical devices, and then how they compare to those classified as general wellness devices. Marketing around these products can sometimes blur the lines, creating misconceptions and even overselling their true capabilities.
To set the record straight and bring clarity to these nuances, we asked our in-house researcher, Rimgailė Blekaitienė, to share her insights.
Depending on the specific device, its intended use, and the level of associated risk, device manufacturers must choose one of several regulatory pathways before marketing their product. Several invasive VNS devices have received FDA approval, the most stringent type of premarket review. For example, an implantable VNS Therapy system is approved for treatment-resistant epilepsy, and a Vivistim Paired VNS System is approved for stroke rehabilitation.
There are also FDA-cleared devices, such as gammaCore, a non-invasive hand-held vagus nerve stimulation device that has been cleared by the FDA for the treatment of cluster headaches and migraine pain. The FDA clearance means that the device is as safe and effective as a predicate device, yet the review process is generally less stringent than for premarket approval.
What to know before you buy
If you encounter a device that claims to treat a medical condition yet has no FDA clearance or approval, its safety and efficacy are questionable. Such devices could potentially pose health risks to users, result in ineffective treatment, or even worsen their medical condition.
It’s important to reiterate that the products on this list are considered general wellness devices in the U.S., which cannot diagnose, treat, mitigate, or prevent any disease. They are not subject to the same FDA scrutiny that medical devices are and are intended for general wellness use only, such as relaxation, stress, and sleep management.
What are vagus nerve stimulation devices and do they actually work?
Vagus nerve stimulators (VNS) are devices that target the vagus nerve to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. They are usually divided into two categories: invasive and non-invasive devices.
While invasive vagus nerve stimulators require surgery for implantation, which makes them a more permanent but also a much pricier option, they are FDA-approved for severe epilepsy, treatment-resistant depression, and stroke rehabilitation. Although they can be highly effective, their high cost and the need for surgery typically limit their use to more serious cases.
On the other hand, non-invasive versions — external devices — are emerging as affordable, versatile, and user-friendly alternatives to invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices. But while they do hold promise in addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, and even cluster headaches and are generally well tolerated with minimal side effects in clinical research settings, the safety and effectiveness of most commercially available VNS devices for at-home use have not been established.
The vagus nerve plays a big role in controlling the function of internal organs like your heart, lungs, and digestive tract. By stimulating this nerve, vagus nerve stimulation devices might influence your heart rate, breathing, digestion, and some reflexes.
VNS devices work by sending electrical pulses that create a slight tingling sensation on your skin. These signals travel through the vagus nerve to your brain, potentially influencing brain activity and a range of physiological functions.
Science-proven benefits of using a home vagus nerve device
Now, I'll explore some of the most studied benefits of vagus nerve stimulators. But before that, I should point out that even though these benefits have been explored in clinical research, most of the devices — including the ones I have picked — don't have regulatory approval or clearance as medical devices. This means they should be viewed as general wellness tools rather than treatments for specific health conditions.
Lowering stress and anxiety
The vagus nerve is involved in shifting your body from the so-called fight-or-flight response to a calmer, more relaxed state, so stimulating it could potentially lower anxiety and stress levels.
Studies using brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and wearable devices have found that tVNS may have a positive impact on stress physiology. The technology seems to influence several neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and norepinephrine.
Stimulating the vagus nerve can activate parts of the brainstem that project to areas in the brain involved in regulating emotions. This can be particularly useful for people dealing with stress-related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Moreover, vagus nerve stimulation may help lower blood pressure and heart rate — two physiological markers of stress.
Diminishing depression symptoms
When vagus nerve stimulation was approved for treating treatment-resistant depression in 2005, tVNS device makers started looking at how they could tackle the same issue from their angle.
We don’t fully understand exactly how tVNS affects depression yet. One of the proposed hypotheses suggests that tVNS may impact neurotransmitter systems like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA, which play a role in depression. Animal models of depression show that tVNS might also have anti-inflammatory benefits, leading to antidepressant effects. However, this has not been confirmed in studies with human participants.
Several studies suggest that tVNS is generally well tolerated and may help improve depressive symptoms. However, since only a few studies have been conducted so far, it's hard to draw any firm conclusions.
Easing headaches and migraines
In 2017, the FDA cleared the first prescription tVNS device for managing episodic cluster headaches and migraines.
Since then, several other tVNS devices have hit the market, each claiming to help lessen the intensity and frequency of migraine pain. While the exact way these devices work is still being studied, it has been proposed that tVNS may reduce inflammation, influence pain signals, and potentially modulate activity in different brain regions that are involved in the pathophysiology of migraine. When the vagus nerve is stimulated, auricularly at a low frequency of 1 Hz, it tends to alleviate migraines and cluster headaches. Cervical VNS — vagus nerve stimulation on the neck — has also shown some promise for controlling migraines.
The main areas needing more research are the best stimulation parameters and locations for treating migraines and headaches with tVNS.
What are the disadvantages of at-home vagus nerve stimulation?
Although at-home vagus nerve stimulators do offer convenience and are easy to use, they also come with some downsides — just like anything else. One important thing to think about is the possibility of side effects.
See, while non-invasive methods do not carry surgery-related risks, they are nevertheless associated with some stimulation-related side effects.
A systematic review published in the Brain Stimulation journal found that tVNS is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effect is skin irritation, which might include itching, redness, or a tingling feeling. Other less common side effects can include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Heart palpitations
- Nasopharyngitis — inflammation of the nose and throat
It's important to note that while these side effects are noted for clinical tVNS devices used in research, we don't yet know as much about the safety of many at-home tVNS devices. Little is known about the risks that these devices may pose, so closely monitoring how you feel in response to tVNS is crucial.
Another downside to at-home vagus nerve stimulation devices is that they often lack clinical validation and regulatory approval. This means that not only is the safety of these devices still being confirmed but their effectiveness and suitability for various health concerns are also uncertain.
What to expect when using a vagus nerve stimulation device at home
Using a vagus nerve stimulator can be quite the experience, especially if it’s your first time trying it at home. Either way, it's really important to remember that these devices aren't magic fixes. So to begin using your device, you may want to start off by first setting out realistic expectations when it comes to the timeline for results and even the sensations you might experience during the sessions.
See, timing can really vary depending on your individual health issues and what you are hoping to achieve. Current research has demonstrated just that — some trials have shown that you might feel the effects after just one session of tVNS, while in other studies, the participants received vagus nerve stimulation for several months.
Just keep in mind that everyone’s experience can be different, and what you feel and the results you get might also depend on the specific device and settings you use.
How to choose the right at-home VNS device for you
Before you buy a vagus nerve stimulator for home use, you must think through certain markers of quality ahead of time. I have identified five key areas you should be paying attention to.
Scientific standards
Look for devices that reference clinical trials, peer-reviewed research, or collaborations with medical professionals. While at-home stimulators generally fall under the wellness category, some brands go the extra mile by basing their designs on published studies. If a device claims to have been “clinically tested,” try to find out where and how.
Functional adaptation
VNS devices can differ in their design, functionality, and the technology used for stimulation. Think about how you plan to use the device; maybe you want something you can wear throughout the day, or something to use during a dedicated session. Some models offer adjustable settings or pair with an app, which can give you more control over your experience. Try to choose one that matches your lifestyle and comfort level.
Ease of use
The best device is one you’ll actually use. If the setup seems overly technical or the instructions unclear, it’s easy for it to end up collecting dust. Look for user-friendly controls, clear guidance on where to place the device, and a simple app interfaces — if the device connects to one.
Price and value for money
High-tech devices can be expensive, and a high price might put some people off. Which is why it’s important to carefully think about what type of device you need. Consider which features matter most to you — like portability, app compatibility, or adjustable intensity. If you are just getting started, a simpler model might do the job. But if you are after more customization or plan to use it regularly, it could be worth investing in a higher-end option with better durability and advanced features.
Return and warranty policy
Since responses to VNS can vary from person to person, a solid return policy can give you peace of mind. Look for brands that offer at least a 30-day return window, especially if you are trying VNS for the first time. Also, check if the company covers repairs or replacements for faulty units. A good warranty shows that the brand stands by its product.
Can vagus nerve stimulation improve sleep?
Feeling relaxed and reducing anxiety is key to getting a good night’s sleep. On the other hand, heightened anxiety and stress can really mess with your sleep quality and even lead to insomnia. That’s where vagus nerve stimulation comes into play. Essentially, stimulating the vagus nerve might help calm both your body and mind by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
With the recent rise in the popularity of tVNS devices, more people are using them to tackle sleep issues. It’s been proposed that combining tVNS with behavioral VNS interventions such as paced breathing may strengthen VNS's impact on sleep.
With this in mind, the overall research evidence on VNS and sleep remains mixed. Though some clinical trials have shown that tVNS could potentially benefit sleep, the evidence isn’t entirely consistent.
Bottom line
Although we still don’t have full proof of the safety and effectiveness of most VNS devices for home use, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulators are showing promise in addressing issues like stress, anxiety, and even cluster headaches.
That said, even though at-home vagus nerve stimulators are becoming more popular and easier to use thanks to rapid technology advancements, I can't refrain from noting that most of them don't have FDA clearance or approval for preventing or managing conditions. This is why it's imperative to approach any therapeutic claims you may come across on brand pages with caution and seek medical advice before trying out a vagus nerve stimulation device.
FAQ
Where is the pressure point for the vagus nerve?
The vagus nerve might be stimulated at several acupressure points. These are located in the lateral neck region and in the outer ear, specifically the tragus and concha of the ear. However, more research is needed to determine whether massaging or pressing on these points offers any meaningful health benefits.
Who should use an at-home vagus nerve stimulator?
At-home vagus nerve stimulators can be an interesting option for anyone looking to support their efforts in relieving anxiety, improving sleep, and enhancing cognitive function — all from the comfort of home.
Do I need a prescription to buy a VNS device?
Unlike invasive VNS devices that need to be implanted and monitored by a doctor, most nVNS devices for home use can be bought without a prescription. However, some devices, like gammaCore, do require one.
Can vagus nerve stimulation improve sleep?
It might, yes. Early research suggests that VNS could potentially support better sleep quality. One study, for instance, found that tVNS improved global sleep scores after just two weeks of use. Many of the clinical trials so far have focused on people with insomnia or other sleep disorders, so while some of the findings are encouraging, more research in healthy populations is still needed. That said, some people do report that VNS helps them wind down more easily at night, which may explain why it’s becoming an increasingly popular therapy for sleep support.
14 resources
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- Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Effect of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation at Auricular Concha for Insomnia: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
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