Devices and methods to stimulate the auricular branch of the vagus nerve
are provided herein. Various device embodiments comprise a lead, a neural
stimulation circuit, and a controller. The lead has a neural stimulation
electrode. The neural stimulation circuit is connected to the lead to
deliver a neural stimulation signal adapted to stimulate the auricular
nerve branch using the neural stimulation electrode. The controller is
connected to the neural stimulation circuit and is adapted to control
delivery of the neural stimulation signal from the neural stimulation
circuit to provide a vagal stimulation therapy. In various embodiments,
the electrode is adapted to be placed in an external auditory canal. In
various embodiments, the electrode includes a transcutaneous neural
stimulation electrode adapted to be placed behind an ear. Other
embodiments are provided herein.