Natural Remedies for Ear Infections

Treating an Ear Infection with Coconut Milk and Other Natural Remedies

If you’ve never had one, an ear infection may not seem like a big deal. But if you have had one, you know how much it can hurt! And if you get them often, it is a serious issue that should convince you to see Dr. Bruce Jones at the Ear, Sinus & Allergy Center, PA in Valdese, N.C. In the meantime, you may be able to find some relief with what you have in your pantry:

Coconut  or olive oil

Coconut oil has been found to treat some infections. Because garlic also has healing properties, combining the two provides an extra punch when fighting an ear infection. In a small saucepan, heat two garlic cloves and ⅛ cup of coconut oil. Simmer for five minutes then remove from heat. Strain the oil with cheesecloth. Before using in the ears, make sure it is no hotter than 98 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use an eyedropper to place two drops of oil into the ear. Lie on your side for five minutes so the oil has a chance to get into the ear. Use twice a day for seven days. If you are allergic to nuts you may have a reaction to coconut oil. Use olive oil instead, either with the recipe above or by itself. If you use it alone, simply warm some olive oil slightly and put a few drops into the ear.

Essential oils

Many people find relief by massaging the outside of the ear with an essential oil such as thyme, tea tree, eucalyptus, rosemary, chamomile, lavender or oregano. It is thought that massage with an essential oil helps with circulation and drainage of any fluid trapped in the ear. Applying gentle pressure, you should massage in a downward direction behind the ear on the neck and in front of the ear toward the cheek.

Onion

Chop up a small onion and microwave for one to two minutes. When it has cooled, strain out the juice. Put two to three drops into the infected ear and let it settle. Then, let it drain out of your ear. You can try baking an onion for half an hour and then cutting it in half. Put one half in a thick cotton cloth and place the cloth on the ear for five minutes. Repeat after waiting for 10 minutes.

Warm water bottle

Heat can help the ear to feel better. Press a warm compress, a warm water bottle or a heating pad against the ear. However, you shouldn’t apply heat for long periods of time. Only use it for five minutes at a time.

Apple cider or white vinegar

Soak a cotton ball in a solution of one part vinegar with one part water or alcohol. Put the cotton ball in the ear and leave for five minutes.

If you or your children often have ear infections, or if these remedies don’t work,  Dr. Bruce Jones and the staff at the Ear, Sinus & Allergy Center, PA can help! Call (828) 438-1930 today!

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