How to Unclog Ears With Ear Candles

If you've experienced ringing or feel like you have too much wax in your ears, you might be interested in ear candling. The ancient art of using ear candles to unclog the ears has seen a revival over the last decade. With their gentle, vacuum-like suction, ear candles have been credited with providing relief for a range of problems, including migraines, sinus troubles, tendinitis and even symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Follow these steps to unclog your ears with ear candles.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bucket of water
• Cotton balls
• Garlic oil
• Cotton swabs
• Paper plate covered with aluminum foil
• 2 to 4 ear candles
• Matches or lighter
• Friend to help you with the procedure

1. Assemble all of the required items (see "Things You'll Need" section). Cut a small hole in the center of the foil-covered paper plate. Lie down on your side in a comfortable position.
2. Ask your partner to light the wider end of the candle while holding it level and straight. Then take the foil-covered paper plate and feed the narrow end of the candle through the hole in its center.
3. Place the narrow end of the candle in the opening of the ear canal. Most people experience a pleasant, warm feeling.
4. Remove the candle from the ear after the candle has burned down approximately one inch. If the wick begins to curl prior to that, remove it. Clip the burned wick off above the flame. You should do this over the bucket of water.
5. Reinsert the candle into the ear canal. Repeat the process after each inch that burns, up to 4 inches.
6. Remove the candle from your ear and cut the candle open lengthwise at its larger end. Examine the debris in the candle to determine if you have extracted enough from the ear. If necessary, begin the process all over again with a new candle.
7. Take the cotton swab and clean out any excess debris from the outer canal of the ear. Pour several drops of the garlic oil into the ear canal. Plug the ear canal with a cotton ball and leave it there until the oil is absorbed.
8. Unclog your other ear by repeating the procedure.
9. Learn more about this technique at the "Ear Candling" Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Ear candles can be obtained very inexpensively from natural food stores and from some major grocery chains and various Web sites. Buying in bulk (to cover multiple family members for several months) is the most cost-effective way to get them.
• Don't try this alone. Using an open flame that you cannot directly see is very dangerous.
• Do not attempt this procedure if you have a perforated ear drum or any open wounds inside your ear canal. See your doctor immediately for these conditions.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.