Alternative medical practitioners praise ear candling as a safer and more effective method for removing ear wax than cotton swabs or ear canal irrigation systems. An ear candle is a narrow hollow tube that is usually made of muslin coated with paraffin or beeswax and soy. The ear candle is placed gently into the ear canal, and the other end is lit. As the candle burns, it has been assumed that the fire creates gentle suction within the hollow part of the candle, and the warmth softens the wax inside the ear.
History
Ear candling has been practiced since 2500 B.C., according to Cheryl Ashby, C.C.T. The ancient Egyptians used beeswax-based tubes for ear candling, and evidence indicates that ear candling was also practiced in parts of Asia.
Precautions
According to EarCandling.com, using an ear candle is a safe procedure when performed by a certified ear hygienist or specialist. Because the procedure should be performed by another person, if you're going to ear candle at home, you should ask someone to assist you. Also keep in mind that if you have any severe ear problems, you should first consult with a medical professional as to whether ear candling is safe for you. Ear candling involves an open flame; take care to ensure that the ear candles you use do not flake or ash, as this could start a fire.
You should be aware that many medical practitioners are skeptical of ear candling, and argue that the procedure does not work and in some cases can cause ear damage. According to Lisa Roazen, M.D., the pressure required to remove wax from the ear canal would have to be so strong that it would damage the ear drum. Roazen also cites a number of tests for the ear candling procedure, all of which showed that the only wax present inside the candle was from the candle itself, not the ear. However, many claim that the practice reduces sinus pressure, encourages a calm, meditative state of mind, and can heal ringing of the ears. Another explanation of the way is works is that the smoke and warmth from the candle loosen and dry ear wax, allowing it to later fall out naturally.
Selecting a Candle
Because there are a number of ear candle types to choose from, you should start by investigating and testing the ear candles you have access to. Craft fairs, alternative healing stores and craft stores often carry ear candles. You can also purchase ear candles online (see Resources). Make sure that you select candles that you feel will safely meet your needs. According to EarCandles.net, paraffin candles leave a residue inside the ear and can do more harm than good.
Placement
According to EarCandling.com, you should first have your ears examined by a health professional, to ensure that you have no infections or other health issues that could be worsened by ear candling. When you are ready to proceed, you should lie down on your side, preferably with a firm pillow beneath your head. Have your assistant place the ear candle in your ear. The narrow end should go far enough into the ear canal that the candle stands stiffly straight, but not so far that you experience any discomfort. Other advice is to sit upright with the candle in the ear at an angle. Once the candle has been firmly seated, light the other end, or the candle may be lighted first to make sure it is burning properly. The flame should remain calm and consistent as the candle burns. You may hear some slight crackling or popping sounds. Once the candle has burned half of its length, remove the candle, extinguish it, and repeat the process. Each ear candling session should use two to three candles per ear and last thirty minutes to an hour.
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