Antibiotics may be necessary in certain cases for an ear infection, however the majority of cases resolve on their own.
There are a few at-home remedies that may help, such as applying ice or heat compresses; taking over-the-counter pain relievers; and adjusting your sleep position.
Before trying any home remedy, consult with your physician first. Many of these techniques have not been scientifically tested or could potentially have negative side effects.
Essential Oils
For natural solutions to an ear infection, essential oils can be beneficial. Their antimicrobial properties help combat germs and speed the healing process of your ears.
However, it is essential to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them directly on your skin. Undiluted, these potent compounds may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if used undiluted.
To treat an ear infection, mix together several drops of essential oil with 2-4 drops of carrier oil such as warmed olive oil. Gently drop this mixture into your canal using a clean dropper. Tilt your head diagonally for one minute to let the oil drip into your ear canal, then resume normal position and wait for drainage to occur naturally.
Garlic
Garlic has long been used as a natural remedy for ear infection. It contains antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties that can reduce inflammation caused by ear infections as well as eliminate bacteria responsible for them.
Ear infections can be caused by a variety of things, such as viruses, bacteria, fungus and an accumulation of earwax or water in the ear canal. Treatment for an ear infection depends on which part is affected and what caused it.
Some people swear by putting garlic oil in their ears to relieve pain and infection, but experts warn this approach is neither safe nor effective. Furthermore, it could block the eardrum altogether.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a popular natural remedy for an ear infection, helping to soothe sore ears while relieving pain and decreasing swelling.
It has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help combat ear infections.
You may also wish to apply a few drops of warm olive oil in your ear to break up any hardened earwax that’s blocking its canal.
But never attempt to push wax out of your ear with cotton swabs or anything else; doing so could push it deeper in and lead to permanent damage.
Instead, use a dropper to place several drops of olive oil in your ear twice or three times daily for several days, as it takes some time for the oil to soften and dissolve any blockages.
Basil
Basil is an herb with numerous health benefits, including natural treatments for ear infections. Crumpling fresh basil leaves into a cotton ball or cloth can help relieve an earache, and adding a drop of basil essential oil may reduce pain and swelling associated with chronic earaches.
Basil is an effective dietary supplement to help balance blood sugar levels, decreasing the risk of high cholesterol or heart disease. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties combat free radicals in the body which may lead to disease and premature aging.
Basil is best used fresh, as its medicinal properties are greater than those of dried. You can use basil to flavor soups and stews or sprinkle on pizzas and pasta dishes for extra flavor.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy for ear infection that can provide pain relief and reduce swelling. Its antibacterial properties help eliminate the bacteria responsible for creating an ear infection.
Additionally, this essential oil contains antifungal and antiviral properties to fight infection. You can apply topically to the ear or inhale it through aromatherapy for maximum benefit.
Basil oil can help relieve ear pain and prevent infections when applied topically or combined with other essential oils.
Garlic oil is another natural remedy for an ear infection that can be used in low concentrations. It contains terpinen-4-ol, which has the capacity to destroy bacteria responsible for an ear infection.