Many ear infections can be healed in just a few days without the use of antibiotics, so why are they so commonly prescribed at the first sign of infection? Antibiotics have some very undesirable side effects including diarrhea, damage to the gut flora (microbiome), yeast infections, and more. Try these natural remedies before reaching for the prescription:
1. Garlic Mullein Oil: One of the most powerful natural remedies for ear infections, the combination of garlic and mullein flower packs a powerful punch! Put a few drops in each ear, slightly warmed. Useful for a current infection or as a preventative. Do not use it if you suspect that the eardrum has ruptured or if your child has tubes in her/her ears.
2. Onion “Ear-Muff”: Hear me out! As part of the garlic family (Allium genus), onions are also antimicrobial and have many health benefits! In this instance, slice an onion in half, scoop out the inner rings, and warm it slightly in the microwave or oven until soft. Place onion half over the ear to cup it and leave until cool. You can use a dish cloth or cheesecloth to help contain the mess. The warmth will also help soothe a painful ear.
3. Ear massage: Gently massage around the ear and down towards the throat to encourage drainage of the Eustachian tubes.
4. Colloidal Silver: Antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral, colloidal silver is a go to remedy for so many things! A couple drops in each ear and let it work its magic. Do not use it if you suspect the eardrum has ruptured or child has tubes in ears.
5. Chiropractic adjustment: Compared to adults, young children have shorter, more horizontal, and narrower Eustachian tubes, more easily collect secretions and collapse, trapping the secretions in or close to the middle ear and blocking air from reaching the middle ear. An adjustment can also help encourage drainage of the Eustachian tubes!
6. If your child has frequent ear infections, consider environmental and food allergies or intolerance such as dairy as making him/her more susceptible. Try going DAIRY-FREE for a few months to see if that makes a difference. Dairy may not directly cause the ear infection, but rather indirectly by increasing inflammation and secretions in response to consuming the food.
7. If environmental allergies may be contributing to frequent ear infections try getting local honey (recommended to only use if child is over 1 year of age).
The content on this site/blog is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with your healthcare provider.
