Ear Candles: Alternative Health Practice or Medical Quackery?

I was introduced to ear candles in the mid-1990s while working at a health food store. Back then, people who engaged in alternative health practices were considered a little out-there. I was one of those people who believed holistic healthcare was nothing more than hocus-pocus and snake oil. That is, until I became incapacitated by Sjogren's syndrome; an autoimmune disease that affects moisture-producing glands.

After three years of visiting doctors and specialists and spending thousands on tests and prescription medications only to become sicker, I was becoming despondent. In February 2004, I met with a medical specialist who informed me there was nothing more that could be done. He stated I would have to learn to live with the chronic pain and inflammation caused by my disease.

Disheartened by the news, I drove home feeling defeated. I passed by a health food store that had recently opened near my house. A large marquis sign proclaimed, "Tired of Feeling Tired? Come in for a Free Health Exam." I had some spare time and decided to stop. After all, I had nothing to lose and I was definitely tired of feeling tired.

The store owners greeted me and offered to show me around. As we walked the aisles and viewed treatment and classrooms, I explained my health problems and expressed how discouraged I was with the prognosis.

I was introduced to Jenny; a naturopathic practitioner who offered health evaluations. Jenny escorted me to a private office where we discussed my medications, lifestyle and diet. She provided information on essential oils, dietary supplements, organic foods, vegetarian diets, yoga, massage therapy and ear candles.

I had never heard of ear candles and the thought of placing a burning candle in my ear canal seemed a bit bazaar. Jenny explained ear coning dates back to 2500BC, with scientific evidence showing Egyptians engaged in this practice.

Ear candles aren't like the type of candles you burn in your home. Instead, they are made from unbleached cotton cloths and coated in beeswax. Candles are between 10- and 18-inches in length and 1-inch circumference. The end tapers down to create a small opening. Some ear candles are scented with essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus.

Ear candles are used to remove built-up ear wax or blockages within the ear canal. Most medical practitioners consider ear candling to be a dangerous practice, which could lead to punctured ear drums, ear infections or burns.

Ear candles are not intended for use on a regular basis. Instead, use should be limited to three or four times per year. Ear wax contains antibacterial properties and provides protection and lubrication to the ear canals. Too little ear wax can increase risk of infection.

Ear candling can pose health risks if not performed properly. Some holistic health facilities offer ear coning treatments. However, if you use caution and follow proper procedure, you can conduct ear candling in the privacy of your own home.

Ear candles are available at most health food stores. Naturopaths recommend using two to three candles per ear to obtain the best results. Candles are usually sold in packages of two, so you will want to purchase two or three packs.

It is best to have someone assist in the procedure. After all, it is somewhat difficult to hold a burning candle in your ear while your head is tilted. Additionally, it is strongly advised to wash your hair if you use hair spray or flammable hair care products prior to obtaining an ear candling treatment.

To engage in ear candling you will need a 6"x6" square of aluminum foil or a small paper plate. Cut a small "X" in the center of the foil or plate and insert the candle. Leave at least 4-inches between the foil and tapered end of candle. The foil or paper plate acts as a receptacle for dripping wax and ash from the burning cloth. You will also want to have a cup of water nearby to extinguish the ear candle.

Gently insert the tip of the candle into one ear. The goal is to create a seal so that when the candle is lit no smoke escapes from the ear canal. Light the candle around the exposed rim, making certain the flame is not in close proximity to the paper plate.

If you see smoke coming out of the tapered end of the candle, readjust within the ear until you obtain a proper seal. Allow the candle to burn until it reaches the foil receptacle. Remove from ear and place burning candle into the glass of water.

Ear candles typically take between 10 and 15 minutes to burn down. A full ear candling treatment will last between 60 to 90 minutes. For those doing the treatment at home, candling can be done in the evening while watching TV.

I have engaged in ear candling for more than a decade and have never experienced anything but relief. We have four pets which equates to plenty of hair and dander and the eventual sinus headache. Personally, ear candles are the only treatment that can relieve my sinus pressure.

I have also used ear candles to relieve migraine headaches and toothaches. Both my husband and daughter have obtained relief from sinus pressure and headache pain through ear candling. While I am not a healthcare practitioner and by no means offer ear candling medical advice, all I know is they work for us and provide relief that over-the-counter remedies do not offer.

If you suffer from ear infections, sinus problems, ear wax build-up and blockages consider using ear candles. Take time to conduct research to become educated about the pros and cons. Seek the advice of your healthcare practitioner or discuss ear candling with a holistic counselor.

Last, but not least, if you are like most people curiosity will get the best of you. I have yet to meet anyone who couldn't resist cutting the ear candles open after the treatment. Chances are you will see a considerable amount of yellow and dark brown powdery flakes. Most medical experts will tell you this is only the burnt beeswax. Others claim it is built-up ear wax and dust mite carcasses. If you have a delicate stomach, you might want to avoid cutting open the ear candles.