Earwax is a natural substance designed to protect the ear, but its buildup can sometimes be bothersome. Similarly, ear infections can cause significant discomfort. While over-the-counter medications are often the go-to remedy, there are natural alternatives worth considering before resorting to pharmaceuticals. This article shares an effective, home-based solution for alleviating earaches and safely removing earwax.
Why Do Ear Infections Happen?
Ear infections can be triggered by various factors, including:
- High outdoor temperatures
- Increased humidity
- Prolonged exposure to moisture
People living in humid climates, frequent swimmers, and those who often get water in their ears are more likely to experience ear infections. Moist environments are ideal for the growth of fungi and bacteria, which can lead to ear pain and infections.
See also: Discover the Method of Using a Salt-Infused Sock to Alleviate Earache and Infection
To avoid infections, minimize water exposure by keeping your head upright during showers, wearing earplugs while swimming, and drying your ears thoroughly after water activities. If water does enter the ear, tilt your head to let it drain naturally, and use a cotton swab to gently remove any remaining moisture.
Signs of Ear Infections and Earwax Buildup
Infections and earaches are often caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in moist ears. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional:
- Ear pain
- Hearing loss
- A feeling of blockage or fullness in the ear
- Tenderness around the ear
- Itching
- Discharge or fluid in the ear
Similarly, earwax buildup can lead to discomfort and other symptoms, including:
- Ear drainage
- Reduced hearing
- Dizziness
- Itching
- Ringing in the ears
- A plugged or congested feeling
Interestingly, earwax buildup is often a result of improper cleaning techniques, such as using cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal rather than removing it.
A Natural Remedy for Earwax and Ear Infections
Fortunately, there’s an easy, natural way to clear earwax and relieve ear infections using two simple household ingredients: olive oil and garlic oil. These ingredients help soften earwax and fight infections caused by bacteria.
What You’ll Need:
- Olive oil
- Garlic oil
How to Prepare the Remedy:
- Begin by warming 2-3 tablespoons of pure olive oil. Ensure it’s warm enough to soften the earwax but not too hot to avoid damaging the eardrum. The ideal temperature should be close to your body temperature, around 98.6°F.
- For added effectiveness, use garlic oil to combat any bacterial infections. However, before combining the garlic oil with the olive oil, conduct a patch test on your skin to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation.
- Once tested, add 4 drops of garlic oil to the warm olive oil. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- Use an eyedropper to pick up a small amount of the mixture, as it allows for easier and more accurate application.
- Tilt your head and apply a few drops of the oil mixture into the ear, allowing it to penetrate the earwax. Keep your head tilted for 5-10 minutes to give the remedy time to work.
How to Use the Remedy:
Repeat this procedure 2-3 times per day. It might not provide immediate relief, but after 3-5 days, the earwax should dissolve, and the blockage will begin to clear.
Additional Tips for Healthy Ears
While this natural remedy can alleviate earwax buildup and ear infections, it’s important to remember that the ears have a self-cleaning mechanism. Avoid washing your ears with water or soap, as earwax doesn’t dissolve in water.
Before self-diagnosing, consider consulting an audiologist or otolaryngologist to distinguish between earwax buildup and an ear infection, as their symptoms can be very similar. Using this natural solution at the onset of symptoms may help prevent more serious complications, but a professional diagnosis is always recommended.
