Ear Ache Home Remedies

Ear aches can range from minor annoyances to serious infections. This page discusses ear ache home remedies for minor conditions. If you are suffering from more serious ear ache concerns, please search for the specific condition on the left hand navigation bar of this website.

Home Remedies for ear aches:

Ear Drops.

Fill the ear with 3 drops of warm (not hot) olive oil and plug ear with a cotton ball. Do this 3 or 4 times a day until the ear ache is gone.

Add Heat.

Heat promotes blood flow and guides white blood cells that fight infection to the affected area. Use a hot towel or heating pad, warmed to a comfortably hot level and wrapped in a towel. Place it on your ear for 20 minutes or until the pain goes away.

Eat Spicy.

Spicy foods that can make your nose run can also ease ear aches associated with congestion. Try hot and sour soup (Chinese cuisine) or any dish with hot peppers (Mexican?).

Humidify your Nose.

Reducing congestion in the nose can also reduce ear discomfort. Use a plain saline nasal spray several times a day when your nose is congested. This can be purchased over the counter at your local pharmacy or in the medicine aisle at the supermarket.

Breathe.

Deep breathing techniques can be effective for ear aches because they oxygenate the body, strengthen the immune system, and opens blockages. Try breathing in deeply from your diaphragm (not chest) and bringing air in through the nose (not mouth). Imagine the space between your naval and upper chest as an accordian. Expand and collapse the accordian by bringing air in through your nose and releasing slowly through your mouth. Continue this exercise until the pain eases and you feel relaxed.

Try A Herbal Remedy

Natural ingredients such as Pasque flower (Pulsatilla) and Eastern puple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) are known for their ability to improve the health of the ear. Pulsatilla is a nerve relaxant and has been researched for its specific qualities in supporting ear health. Echinacea purpurea has over 500 studies documents it effectiveness as an immune system stimulate. A product formulated with ingredients that is designed to promote ear health is Ear-Heal. Review the manufacturers site for additional information and clinical support.

When to see a Doctor.

Not all ear aches are ear infections. If you believe you have an ear infection, see a physician immediately. An untreated infection can spread and cause more severe problems because of its close proximity to other delicate structures, including the brain. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics that will help eliminate the infection safely and quickly. If you cannot see your doctor right away, an OTC painkiller can also help, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or even a decongestant like Sudafed. Some symptoms that may require the advice of a physician include:

Severe ear pain
Drainage or discharge from the ear
Fever of 102 degrees F or higher
Ear pain not accompanied by a cold
Ear pain not caused by water in your ear
Sudden change in hearing (emergency!)
Sudden onset of dizziness (emergency!)
Inability to conecntrate (emergency!)
Muscle weakness in the face on the same side as affected ear (emergency!)

References:
"Healing Remedies" by Wilen and Wilen
"The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women" by the Editors of Prevention Magazine