Ear coning (also known as ear candling) is an alternative medicine practice said to effectively treat ear problems such as hearing loss, wax buildup, ear infections and ringing in the ears. The procedure is believed to have roots in a variety of ancient cultures, and is currently practiced by alternative medicine authorities and folk remedy believers.
Procedure
Ear coning is a process that uses specially designed ear cones to remove the build-up of toxins from the ear canal. The ear cone is a long, tapered tube made of cotton and dipped in beeswax or paraffin. The tubes are usually between eight to 12 inches long and can be dipped in fragrant essential oils to heighten their cleaning capabilities. Before beginning the procedure, use an otoscope or similar device to ensure that the structures of the ear are healthy. After that initial examination, the cone is placed into the outer part of the ear canal. Usually the cone is stuck through a small hole in a pie tin or paper plate to prevent wax or ash from falling on you during the procedure. Once placed, the cone is lit and the procedure can last anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes. You may hear some popping or crackling while the cone burns. The experience is described as being soothing and relaxing. While the candle burns, it is believed that the suction created by the candle burning pulls impurities from the ear canal and into the cone.
Benefits
According to CrystalLinks.com, ear coning can help with a wide variety of issues affecting the sinuses, throat, nose, ears and equilibrium. Hearing loss is said to be treatable through ear coning, in addition to wax build-up in the ears. ConingCompany.com reports that after having the procedure performed, people experience a heightened awareness and mental clarity.
Controversy
Despite the many praises of ear coning, there are a number of controversies surrounding the effectiveness of the procedure. Lisa Roazen M.D.'s article "Why Ear Candling is Not a Good Idea" outlines the ways that ear coning is not only an ineffective practice, but one that is potentially dangerous. According to Roazen's research, the act of placing a tube into one's ear can damage the delicate tissues inside the ear, especially in someone with previous ear or hearing problems. Roazen further argues that, "since wax is sticky, the negative pressure needed to pull wax from the canal would have to be so powerful that it would rupture the eardrum in the process." Ear coning is supposed to work because the pressure created by the flame is increased in the chamber of the cone; however, researchers believe that this "vacuum" is never actually created.
CrystalLinks.com also cites reports in which the "ear wax" found inside the ear cone was not ear wax, but wax from the cone itself. Either way, if you're going to undergo ear coning, first have a thorough examination performed by an ear specialist to ensure that your ears are healthy and can withstand the process. Inform your ear specialist that you are considering the procedure and carefully weigh their opinion (and your own) on the matter.
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