Pain in the ear is most commonly caused by infection or inflammation occurring in the middle or outer ear. It can also be due to referred pain from the teeth or as a result of over-tight jaw muscles. Foreign objects pushed into the ear, eczema or boils can set up an infection in the outer ear which can produce a discharge, although a discharge is more commonly due to a perforated eardrum. If there is a middle ear infection, pressure builds up behind the eardrum causing intense pain. The pressure is relieved if the eardrum bursts, though this is not a goal to work towards! Babies and young children are particularly prone to ear infections as their relatively short and narrow eustachian tubes easily become blocked if there is a catarrhal condition. Excessive secretion of wax is a signal that all is not well, perhaps there is an unresolved infection or a catarrhal problem. Antibiotics are not the answer for recurrent ear infections; trials have demonstrated that they have no positive effect on the resolution of the condition. Hot salt packs can ease the pain considerably. Find a cotton or muslin bag, big enough to comfortably cover your ear and surrounding area. Half fill it with hot dry salt (heat the salt in a saucepan or oven). When it is just warm enough to hold against your ear, do so, keeping it there until it cools off. Seek professional help if the problem is recurrent, if there is blood discharging or if you suspect middle ear infection.
For earache caused by a build up of wax use our St John’s Wort Ear Drops to loosen the wax, and Ear Candles to clear it. Placing the ear on a warmed hot-water-bottle or wheat bag should ease acute pain of this nature quickly. For earache associated with infection gargle with Sage & Rosemary Mouthwash (not suitable for children) or Echinacea, or use our Propolis mouth & Throat Spray, spraying it as far back into the throat as is comfortable. For recurrent attacks of ear infection use these measures for at least a month after symptoms have gone. As most cases of ear ache can be related to catarrhal congestion it is advisable to follow the following treatment regime designed to reduce congestion of this kind. Our Catarrh Mix is specifically formulated to reduce catarrhal inflammation and congestion, dry up excess catarrh and boost digestive function. Where congestion is particularly stubborn Elderflower, Peppermint & Composition Essence quickly relieves the situation. Internally Echinacea should be taken to aid the body’s immune response. If there is an allergic aspect to your congestion, long-term treatment with Eyebright Compound is recommended. Inhalations with Nebuliser Oil help to relieve congestion as well as fight infection directly. Other remedies to consider for symptomatic relief of congestion include: Olbas Oil Pastilles and Rhinodoron Nasal Spray. Elderflower Tea makes a good substitute for your usual hot drinks as it helps reduce catarrh production. For children Children’s Winter Booster and Sambucol for Kids prove popular choices to boost immunity and reduce congestion. Supplements to consider include a course of a Vitamin and Mineral Supplement such as Multi-Guard, Floradix or Kindervital and additional Extra Zinc and Vitamin C, while Garlic Capsules are strongly recommended for situations when it is difficult to include this in the diet. Simple dietary measures can make a considerable difference. The diet should predominate in fresh fruit and vegetables: eat something raw before each meal as this tones the mucous membranes and boosts the body’s powers of elimination. Onions, and raw garlic, a clove a day, should also be eaten. In addition it is important to avoid all dairy products, sugar and refined carbohydrates, as these are mucus forming. Coffee, tea, chocolate, cocoa and cola drinks should also be eliminated, as should all junk food. See also our section on Digestion for tips on promoting good digestive function as this is vital in any effort to reduce catarrh and thus the resulting ear ache. A qualified herbalist will be able to give more specific herbal treatment and advise on dietary changes needed to manage this condition.
