Any infection in any of our five senses could be irritating, to say the least. Its pain too often becomes unbearable and we are in constant search for remedies to cure the infections. It is not always possible for us to run to a medical store and look for remedies. This is when some essential oils can help your way.
But when it comes to ear infection, how do you use it? What is the right way to benefit from it and how to prevent it? Read on to know how it works and find some answers. We hope we can be of some help in this area.
What Are Ear Infections? How Is It Caused?
Ear infections could be caused due to many reasons. It mainly affects one of the there parts of the ear including the inner, middle, or exterior. Some of its causes could be attributed to
1. Bacterial or viral infections- Bacterias and viruses can attack the ear insides and completely dig them out. This could be harmful in more than one way and lead to infection.
2. The placement of Eustachian tubes- In children, the tubes are seen to be shorter which makes them susceptible to infections through dirt and other foreign objects.
3. Upper respiratory system- Infections in the sinus or respiratory tract that connect the ear canal can also cause infections in them.
4. Allergies- In some cases, allergies are also known to flare up ear infections among other symptoms.
What Are Essential Oils And How Do You Use Them For Ear Infections?
Essential oils can be described as aromatic liquids that are often derived from natural substances. It is primarily extracted using the technique of distillation and could be obtained from a variety of plants. Several flowers and spices also fall into that category. But how do you use it for ear infections effectively? You can follow the steps below-
- Choose safe essential oils- Choosing the safe essential oil that can be used in sensitive areas like ear canals or surrounding areas. Additionally, look for any particular allergies you might have to specific substances. Also, use essential oils with all-natural materials.
- Dilution- Oils with strong scents could come off as too strong for delicate body parts and for that you might want to dilute some with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil.
- Application methods- Its application methods can be three. If the infection is over the ear, you can be relieved by topical application. However, if the middle ear is the problem, you should inhale the essential oil using a diffuser so that the spice doesn’t overpower your senses completely. Additionally, you can also use compression techniques by soaking a clean towel in the diluted essential oil. You can apply it by heating the towel a bit to be relieved and in some cases, it might work.
- Never apply- Do not apply the oil, no matter how safe it is, inside the ear canal. Doing this can completely undermine the structures inside the ear and even affect your hearing.
- Use as complementary- Using essential oils is a great idea but it should always be optional and not the only way to cure your ear infection. Always consult a doctor if you believe the situation is aggravated.
Essentials oils for ear infection and their benefits
After following all the precautions above you could now look for the essential oil that will become its primary odor. Choosing it should be according to all the tips we mentioned and when you are done, you can go for
- Tea tree oil- Tea tree oil is popular in the beauty world for its ability to kill microbes and bacteria in microseconds. Therefore, it can possibly fight off minor infections in the ears without causing much harm. However, no chance can be taken when it comes to dilution.
- Lavender oil- Lavender oil is fragrant and an addition to every perfume or even body moisturizer. So it was no surprise when it made it to our list with its amazing soothing qualities. Like its counterparts, lavender also requires significant dilution with some carrier oil that has low density. Always apply it over the ear and not inside.
- Chamomile oil- Chamomile tea is loved by everyone and so is the oil. It has made its presence known ever since it made a dashing entry into the world of healing essential oils. And rightly so, not only can it calm ear infections but also provides protection from excessive swelling.
- Eucalyptus oil- Well known in the alternative medicine and allopathic community for its anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties, eucalyptus oil can kill any bacteria that might have found solace inside your ear causing you a lot of distress. Its application can be through aromatherapy as it is quite strong when it comes to potency.
- Peppermint oil- Also known to calm down the infectious areas from reddening or itching, it can also prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. This could be done with much care and also after significant dilution. No direct contact with the ear should be conducted.
- Thyme oil- Often known to season our poultry, thyme oil could be extracted and used in a perfect way when the allergy is known and you might want quick relief from the pain.
Conclusion
Essential oils have become an essential part of our lives. However, not all of them can be used the way it is. Especially, when it comes to senses which could completely upend our lives must be dealt carefully with. The primary way is always to zero in on the causes of ear infections so that one can choose the right oil and treatment. The area of pain could also be of importance as you can make it the point of contact of the oil. It is also imperative to consider the type of application you might prefer. In any case, look for the one that suits you and not the popular one like we always suggest.
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