Ear candling---an ancient practice said to have been used by the Mayans and Egyptians---sometimes also gets referred to as Hopi ear candling, although no actual evidence exists to show the practice was, in fact, used by the Hopi. Ear candling entails withdrawing wax and impurities from the ear by burning a hollowed candle placed in the opening of the ear canal. It has been the subject of much debate between alternative healers and the medical community; however, some of its benefits appear undeniable.
Identification
In ear candling, a specially made fabric tube coated in wax is first inserted through the hole of a container (an aluminum to-go container works especially well) to catch the burned debris. Then the narrow tip of the candle gets snugly but gently placed in the opening of the ear canal as you lie on one side. The person performing the ear candling lights the other end of the candle and holds it at a slightly tilted angle. As one end of the candle burns, the hollow tube becomes a vacuum, drawing wax and impurities out of the ear and into the tube. You can purchase ear candles in most health food stores.
Uses
Ear candling can be used to treat many ailments of the ears and sinuses, such as congestion due to colds and chronic sinus or ear infections. It also helps with itching, ringing, fluid build-up or an accumulation of wax in the ear.
Surprisingly, ear candling can also be used to relieve symptoms that seem unrelated to the ears, such as jaw pain, headaches, nervousness, chronic stress or dizziness.
Benefits
The initial benefit of ear candling has been the least debated: The process, a warmth and crackling sound as the candle burns down, can be relaxing and soothing.
The benefits of ear candling have not been proved. However many report the following: relief of sinus pressure or pain in the ears; eased congestion; a feeling of balance, both physical and emotional; an improved sense of hearing, smell and taste. Some even say they can think more clearly after an ear candling. Ear candling may also lead to reduced stress levels, less pain and tension in the jaw and fewer headaches.
Considerations
Even though ear candling involves a fairly simple procedure, it does have its risks. If done incorrectly, you can burn yourself or drip hot wax onto your skin. If you're not sure about the proper way to do ear candling, you may want to seek a practitioner to do it for you. If you do perform ear candling on yourself, someone should be present to supervise. Carefully read and follow the directions on the package.
Warning
If you've recently had surgery on your eardrums, have tubes in your ears, a ruptured eardrum, mastoiditis or a cyst on the eardrum, you should not use ear candling. Those with artificial eardrums should stay away from ear candling as well.
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