In recent years, ear candling therapy has gained popularity as an alternative method, with many people saying that it cleans the ear, manages ear wax or even improves one’s hearing abilities. Very often ear candles are presented as a safe ear cleaning process and are assumed to work by generating heat and smoke which brings ear wax and other dirt out.
In this article, we will examine the aspects of ear candling, as well as its benefits and drawbacks and some myths connected with this treatment.
What Are Ear Candles?
Ear candles are a type of candle primarily consisting of pure cotton or beeswax sometimes with additional ingredients like herbs or essential oils. A practitioner inserts the ear candle’s tapered end into the ear while lighting the opposite end.
Ear candling supporters argue that staring at the candles does not only calm the mind but also the lit portion of the candle creates a warm cone, coupled with the smoke that is produced from the candle forming a vacuum that pulls out excess wax from the ear.
Ear candling is not a new practice; it has been used in various cultures for many years.
Ear Candling Benefits
Potential Benefits of Ear Candling
Ear Wax Removal: This is the primary reason why most of the individuals resort to ear candling in the first place. It has been suggested that the candles warm the ear to soften the earwax and then such pressure helps to push the earwax out into the ear canal.
Improving One’s Hearing: Many believe that ear candling can improve hearing for those with earwax blockages.
Relaxation: It is often claimed that the heat of the cone and the calm nature inherent of the procedure enhances relaxation as well. For a lot of people, the experience is similar to the comforting experience of aromatherapy.
Though, one must understand that these advantages are mostly based on outcomes performed in day to day life and there is little or no scientific proof for them.
Risks and Side Effects of Ear Candling
Although ear candling may have some benefits, the practice carries significant risks.
Burns: One of the most frequent risks involves ear candling, burns caused from the open flame. They occur whenever a candle is poorly handled or a candle is already close to the skin surface.
Ear Damage: There is a risk of injury if the candle is inserted too deeply into the ear canal or if hot wax enters the ear. This can cause irritations and blockages and may even cause damage of the eardrum.
Infections: There is the predisposition of the cases of development of infection upon the introduction of injectable drugs or any other foreign materials into the human ear; Especially if the infection is caused by wax or bacteria introduced by the ear candle. Ear infections are very painful and usually, there is a need to seek the help of physicians who give pain killers or other medications.
These risks have influenced the perspective of many hospitals and recommended medical practices, thus causing the withdrawal of ear candles and recommending other types of remedies such as over the counter ear drops or surgery cleaning interventions.
Mythbusters: Ear Wax Candle Facts
Many myths about ear candling exist, which make this procedure so popular. But the majority of them are greatly embellished or simply false. Below are several myths followed by the facts that dispel them.
Myth: The supposed role of ear candles is to create a vacuum that draws earwax out of the ear.
Fact: Research has shown that ear candles are not capable of suctioning ear wax. In fact, any debris found after the procedure is more likely the candle’s byproducts and not wax from the ear.
Myth: Burning the candles in the ear is a safe method to remove excess ear wax.
Fact: The American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) and other organizations go so far as to forbid the practice of ear candling due to the threats of burns, bacteria within the ear, or other health issues. There exists no science which advocates ear candling as a means of achieving wax free ears.
Do Ear Candles Help Clogged Ears?
One of the common inquiries from people who intend to perform ear candling is whether it is useful in unclogged ears. This sensation of fullness or a blockage might be due to excess ear wax a problem that brought the need for ear candling. But the latest works in the field of science show that There is no sufficient ear wax within the ear canal to the extent of ear candles general unblocking or cleaning.
There are actually instances wherein an ear candling process would simply push the excessive wax further into the ear canal, thus making it more blocked than before instead of treating the blockage. For patients who have any form of blockage in the ears cold, it is strongly recommended to work with a qualified doctor who deals with ear blockages treatment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ear candling safe?
Most healthcare professionals think that ear candling is largely unsafe. The chances of burns, damage to the ear and even infections are more than any benefit earned.
How often can I use ear candles?
Ear candles are generally not recommended. Consult a physician if excessive earwax or other ear problems arise.
Can ear candles treat infections?
No, ear candles cannot treat infections. Moreover using ear candles make it more likely that an infection will occur as ears are easily accessible to foreign organisms that are injected into its interior using such devices.Â
ConclusionÂ
While ear candles have gained popularity in alternative therapy, they are considered risky and lack scientific support. Benefits such as removal of ear wax, increased hearing abilities, and improved relaxation are reported by some individuals, but such claims lack scientific basis. Moreover, the risks including burns, damage to the ear, as well as infections – cannot be overlooked.Â
Before considering ear candling, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to explore safer and more effective methods for maintaining ear health. Have you tried Ear Candling? Share your experience in the comments below! If you found this article helpful, share it with your friends on social media!
