4 natural remedies to treat ear infections
Winter is fast approaching with its share of inconveniences. As if to accompany this cold snap, many diseases are spreading. Among them, otitis, a condition that causes two to three million consultations per year. To treat it, effective natural remedies exist.
Otitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the various ducts and cavities of the ear. Most often of infectious origin, it can also be viral or related to a change in pressure. To relieve the pain and treat the first symptoms of this ear condition, here are 4 natural remedies to adopt in case of inflammation.
Some precautions to take
According to Doctor Mustapha Smail, ENT (Otorhinolaryngologic) at the Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital, patients often use cotton swabs, pens, needles and other sharp objects of all kinds to unclog their ears. In addition to being ineffective, these actions can irritate the skin of the external auditory canal.
Also, it is necessary to consult your doctor to know the nature of otitis. "Before any treatment, check the integrity of the eardrum, if it is perforated, the treatment risks crossing the natural barrier - represented by the eardrum - and reaching the middle ear" , continues the specialist. A phenomenon that could worsen the condition and cause acute otitis media accompanied by severe pain or even loss of hearing.
1. Hot water to unclog the ear
Hot water is a great natural remedy for ear infection. Its analgesic power calms pain associated with inflammation. The heat softens the earwax plug and wicks away the wax. This treatment is ideal for improving circulation and fighting infections and eczema present in the ear. However, Dr Smail recommends lukewarm water, which is less aggressive for the eardrums.
Directions: Pour 2 to 3 drops of lukewarm water into the affected ear by tilting its head to the side. Wait 5 minutes to expel the earwax. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Same instructions for hydrogen peroxide. Very effective in treating otomycosis and oxygenating fungi, this disinfectant also helps fight viruses and microorganisms that proliferate in the ear canals.
2. Garlic to fight infection
A true natural antibiotic, garlic is formidable when it comes to fighting infections. And for good reason, its multiple virtues allow it to cure many ailments. Antifungal, antibacterial and antimicrobial, garlic is the ideal remedy for treating ear infections. Preferably, opt for organic garlic because it contains more sulfur, the main component of its antiseptic constituents.
Instructions for use: Prepare garlic juice by putting garlic cloves to cook. The steam will facilitate the extraction of the juice. Run 3 drops in the painful ear. You can also use pure garlic oil, allowing it to penetrate for a few minutes for better efficiency.
3. Onion to relieve inflammation
Natural remedy to fight against many infections and diseases, onion is full of antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Rich in mineral salts and active components, this food is excellent for treating otitis externa. The onion fights bacteria and helps relieve inflammation.
Instructions for use: The use is simple: cut a fresh and organic onion preferably and wrap it with a cloth. Leave on the diseased ear for 5 to 10 minutes. Be sure to position your head so that the onion juice enters the ear well.
4. Olive oil to fight skin irritation
Used in the treatment of many diseases, olive oil has many curative virtues that no longer need to be demonstrated.
Olive oil is effective in treating infections such as otitis, especially since it will soften earwax. According to Dr. Smail, the oil will lubricate the dry skin of the affected ear and decrease the irritation by treating certain dermatoses (infections of the skin of the external auditory canal).
Directions: To apply, heat two tablespoons of olive oil. Let cool and pour 2 to 3 drops into the ear.
You can also opt for sweet almond oil which has similar healing properties for the treatment of ear infections.
Post a Comment