Ear candling, a therapeutics passed down from ancient times has shown its effectiveness. The history of ear candling is quite systematic and extensive. So, what exactly is ear candling, and how can it be done safely at home?

What is an Ear Candle?

An ear candle is a hollow cone made from natural fibers that burn like wax and emit a fragrance. This heat-based ear therapy is known as Hopi ear candling or ear coning. It is usually referred to as ear therapy in spas. To use an ear candle, a burning candle with wax is inserted into the ear for 15 to 20 minutes.

When Did Humans Start Using Ear Candles?

Ear candles have been used as a treatment by ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Tibetan monks. The earliest record of ear candling is from the Native American Hopi Tribe and has been passed down through many generations. The original purpose of the candle was for spiritual ceremonies and to clean the aura during meditations.

What is an Ear Candle Made of?

Ear candles are not actual candles and typically come in hollow tubes. They are about 12 inches long with a hollow center with a plastic filter to prevent the components from entering the ear. Ear candles contain beeswax, honey, beta-carotene, chamomile, sage, and other herbs. As herbs can trigger seizures, they should not be used by or on epilepsy patients.

How Does It Work?

Ear candles, also known as ear therapy, are quite different from the typical ear massage. They use the warm air wavelength inside the stick to gently massage the eardrum. Not only that, but the internal pressure of the stick also affects the middle ear and Eustachian tube, improving overall ear health.

The Many Benefits of Ear Candles

Ear candles help with nasal secretion, alleviating snoring and cold symptoms. The candle and massage stimulate blood circulation, reducing head and neck tension. They also help with pain and relax muscles through nerve stimulation.

How to Clean Earwax with Ear Candles

An ear candle makes it easier to remove earwax by softening the inside of the ear and reducing the pressure. Furthermore, the unique scent and sound of the candle burning can help relax the mind. The candle acts like a chimney, gently drawing out the earwax while melting it. It also has a mild vacuum effect and helps dry out the moisture inside the ear.

It’s Not an Official Medical Device

While ear candles are becoming popular, they are not officially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as there is no scientific evidence that ear candles remove earwax. Corporations advertise the benefits of ear candles as relieving depression, insomnia, headache, and more. However, such advertisements have never been verified with their effects.

Beware of Side Effects Like Burns

There are also obvious side effects such as burns. There were situations where surgery was often necessary due to serious injuries such as ear burns, pierced eardrums, and ear blockage due to wax. The FDA has also warned consumers to refrain from use. There have been cases in Korea where candle wax or ashes fell on the ear or face, so seeking professional help for proper treatment is recommended.

How Ear Therapy Works

Ear therapy should be done in comfortable environments. To start, lie down on one side. Then, insert the ear candle into your ear and light the other end. Once the candle is lit, try not to move and focus on the candle’s sound. If done properly, there shouldn’t be any pain or discomfort. The candle will extinguish itself when about 1 inch is remaining. Ear candle therapy takes about 30 minutes, usually followed by a face and head massage.

People Who Should Not Use Ear Candles

It’s imperative that users fully understand how to use ear candles properly. People with ear infections or ruptured eardrums should not use ear candles. Furthermore, people who are allergic should also refrain from using them due to the herbal mix in the candles.