An ear infection can be debilitating and significantly decrease one’s quality of life. Fortunately, if you or your child are suffering from an earache there are some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and provide temporary relief.
Resting or sleeping upright allows the fluid to drain from your ear canal, relieving pressure and pain in the ears. For children, placing a pillow under their head while they sleep on one side may also help alleviate ear discomfort.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an all-natural remedy that can help alleviate ear infection symptoms. This essential oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties, eliminating germs responsible for causing ear infections.
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and swelling in an infected ear. Furthermore, it helps dry up excess liquid buildup.
Terpinen-4-ol, found in this oil, can destroy bacteria by taking away their energy sources and starving them to death.
Ear infections are a common issue for adults and children alike, often leading to discomfort and intense pain.
Thankfully, natural remedies exist that can alleviate the symptoms of an ear infection and cure it completely. These home treatments are safe to use with few or no side effects.
Oregano oil
One of the best natural treatments for an ear infection is oregano oil. Not only does it reduce inflammation, swelling and pain but it also inhibits bacteria from growing in your ears. But be sure to dilute it properly with a carrier oil prior to use.
Oregano oil’s primary active ingredient is carvacrol, an antimicrobial agent effective against various bacteria types. Studies have even demonstrated that oregano oil can inhibit certain fungi and viruses from growing.
Oregano oil may help alleviate symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, such as gas and bloating. Although it’s a popular supplement for digestive health, it should always be diluted prior to ingestion.
A safe and simple home remedy for an ear infection is to pour some oregano oil into the affected ear. Next, place a cotton ball on top of it to clean away any oil that leaks out.
Mullein oil
Mullein oil is an effective natural remedy for ear infection. It’s an anti-inflammatory that reduces pain, soothes swelling and prevents infections.
Antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties make this an effective earache treatment. Furthermore, it functions as an expectorant–helping to expel mucus from lungs and throat.
Mucilage found in the plant’s leaves and flowers contains mucilage, which coats mucous membranes and reduces inflammation. Furthermore, it acts as a demulcent, creating an anti-inflammatory coating on throat and lung membranes.
To use, warm several drops of mullein oil and pour into your infected ear. You may also try applying it externally around your ears for relief.
For optimal results, repeat this treatment several times a day. It’s an effective earache cure that offers long-lasting comfort. Be sure to have a cotton ball handy for cleaning out your ears afterward.
Salt
Salt has natural antimicrobial properties, making it a great treatment for an ear infection. To make salt ear drops to help alleviate your discomfort, simply mix one teaspoon of sea salt in with water and soak a cotton ball in the solution.
Garlic is another natural ear infection treatment you can try. Crush the garlic and place it in a cup of olive oil, or boil some cloves in water then filter the liquid.
For temporary relief from an ear infection, apply a warm compress to the affected area. You could also use a salt sock to apply gentle heat directly onto your ears.
If these remedies don’t work for your ear infection, your doctor may suggest antibiotics. They will assess whether such medication is necessary based on your age, symptoms and medical history.