What is vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS)?
The transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive, ear-worn electrode method developed to activate the parasympathetic ("rest") nervous system without surgery. A mild electrical impulse delivered through the skin of the auricle stimulates the auricular branch of the nervus vagus, which can influence autonomic balance, heart rate variability (HRV), stress regulation and relaxation.
Which one should you choose?
Three devices, three focuses: the Nurosym is the most widely researched tVNS clinically; the ZenoWell Vita supports sleep, stress relief and everyday recovery; and the ZenoWell Luna also offers pain- and headache-relief modes. In the detailed guide under the products we compare them: detailed selection guide.
Neuromodulation device. Stimulates parasympathetic nervous system function via vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS).
Vagus nerve stimulator with four modes: Sleep – supports falling asleep. Relax – stress relief. Medit – meditation. Relief – pain and headache relief.
Vagus nerve stimulator with three modes: Sleep – supports falling asleep. Relax – stress relief. Medit – meditation.
How does it work?
The device delivers a mild electrical impulse via an ear electrode to the area of the auricle where a superficial branch of the vagus nerve runs. This stimulus transmits a signal toward the parasympathetic nervous system, the "brake" side of the autonomic nervous system responsible for rest and regeneration. The aim is to support autonomic balance, heart rate variability (HRV) and stress regulation. The treatment requires no implantation and can be performed at home, seated or lying down.
Which device should you choose?
| Device | Main focus | Who is it recommended for? |
|---|---|---|
| Nurosym | The most widely researched tVNS – autonomic balance, HRV | Those looking for the device with the most clinical evidence, for complementary use |
| ZenoWell Vita | Sleep, stress relief, recovery (Sleep / Relax / Medit) | Those seeking a device for their evening routine, calmer sleep and stress management |
| ZenoWell Luna | Sleep and stress + pain/headache relief (Sleep / Relax / Medit / Relief) | Those who want pain- and headache-relief modes in addition to relaxation |
About the evidence
Research on tVNS is ongoing: in some areas moderate evidence is already available, while in others it is still emerging. Therefore these devices should be considered as adjunctive methods alongside primary therapy, and individual results may vary. You can learn more about the background and levels of clinical evidence in the articles below.
Further information
Read more about the background of vagus stimulation, the evidence and device comparisons here:
- Autonomic nervous system and vagus stimulation – basics – what the autonomic nervous system is and how tVNS works
- Parasympathetic nervous system and chronic conditions – overview by level of evidence
- tVNS – detailed comparison of Nurosym, ZenoWell Vita and Luna – decision guide
When is tVNS NOT recommended?
tVNS should not be used in the following cases, or only with medical (cardiologist/arrhythmologist) approval:
- Pacemaker, ICD or other implanted neurostimulator – only with cardiologist/arrhythmologist approval
- Severe cardiac arrhythmia
- Low blood pressure
- Pregnancy
- Cochlear (inner ear) implant
- Recent injury or infection of the auricle
Detailed considerations are available in the electrical treatment contraindications and the electrical treatment and implants articles.
