Brooke Martin
Ear candling is a popular alternative remedy that involves placing a hollow candle in the ear canal and lighting the other end. The warmth of the candle's flame is thought to create a vacuum, pulling earwax and debris out of the ear. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Major health authorities such as the FDA have warned of the dangers of ear candles, including the risk of burns, wax occlusion, and middle ear damage. The safest way to remove earwax is to consult a doctor or try over-the-counter ear drops. So, what really comes out of your ears when you candle them? The answer is, not much—and it might be safer to avoid finding out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length of ear candles | 10 inches |
| Ear candling position | Lying on side with treated ear uppermost |
| Ear candling duration | 10-20 minutes |
| Ear candling theory | "Chimney effect" creates a vacuum that draws out wax and debris |
| Ear candling theory | Heat melts wax, which comes out over the next few days |
| Safety | Not approved by FDA, associated with serious injuries |
| Safety | Risk of fire |
| Safety | Dangerous for children |
| Safety | Can worsen earwax buildup |
| Safety | Can cause middle ear damage |
| Safety | Can burn face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal |
| Alternative methods | Over-the-counter ear drops |
| Alternative methods | Drip water or hydrogen peroxide into ear canal |
| Alternative methods | Use oil to soften earwax |
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What You'll Learn
The process of ear candling
Ear candling, also known as "coning", is an alternative remedy used to draw out impurities and wax from the inner ear. Despite its popularity, there is no scientific evidence that ear candling works or is safe, and major health authorities such as the FDA have warned of its dangers.
After the procedure, the candle can be cut open, and some believe that the contents—a blend of burned candle wax and fabric—are impurities removed from the ear. However, one study found that there was no suction force during the procedure, and the temperatures produced were too low to melt the wax. Instead, it is possible for candle wax to get into the ear, impacting hearing and causing discomfort.
While ear candling is intended to remove earwax, it is important to note that earwax is beneficial for the ears in normal quantities. The ears have a self-cleaning system that naturally removes earwax, and most people do not need additional cleaning. If there is a buildup of earwax, it is recommended to seek advice from a hearing specialist or healthcare provider, who can suggest at-home solutions or perform a professional cleaning.
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The safety and effectiveness of ear candling
Ear candling, also known as "coning", is an alternative remedy that involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal to create a low-level vacuum that supposedly softens and removes earwax and other impurities. The procedure is typically performed by an herbalist, massage therapist, or beauty salon specialist, and can also be done at home, although this is not advised.
The effectiveness and safety of ear candling are highly controversial topics. Proponents of ear candling claim that it can treat a wide range of conditions, from earwax build-up to cancer. They believe that the heat from the candle creates suction, drawing out wax and impurities. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, one study found that there was no suction force created during the procedure, and the temperatures produced were too low to melt earwax. Additionally, the debris found inside burned candles has been shown to be a blend of candle wax and fabric, even when the candles have not been near an ear canal.
Major health authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have warned against the use of ear candles due to the risk of serious physical injuries. The American Academy of Otolaryngology also does not support the practice because of the lack of evidence of its effectiveness and its safety risks. Some of the potential risks and side effects of ear candling include burning the face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal from hot wax or ash. These risks are even higher for children, who are more likely to move during the procedure, and for older adults. There is also a risk of fire when using lit candles.
Furthermore, ear candling can worsen earwax buildup and may delay proper treatment for underlying infections or other conditions. The safest way to remove earwax is to consult a doctor or healthcare provider, who can recommend or perform safe and effective methods of earwax removal, such as over-the-counter ear drops or professional cleaning.
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Alternative methods of earwax removal
Ear candling, or "coning", is an alternative remedy that some people use to draw out impurities and wax from the inner ear. The process involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal to create a low-level vacuum that supposedly softens and removes earwax. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, and major health authorities such as the FDA have warned of the dangers of ear candles, including the risk of burning the face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal.
Over-the-counter ear drops
Ear drops can help soften earwax and allow it to exit the ear more easily. Look for drops that contain hydrogen peroxide or other types of peroxide, as these are effective at breaking up earwax. To use ear drops, lie on your side with the affected ear facing up. Place a few drops into the ear and let it sit for around five minutes. Sit up and use a tissue to catch the liquid and loosened earwax as it drains out.
Irrigation
Irrigation is a method that involves flushing out the ear canal with warm water, saline, or diluted hydrogen peroxide. This can be done at home using a bulb syringe or in the shower. Irrigation can also be combined with other methods, such as baking soda or oil. However, avoid using the flushing method if you have a hole in your eardrum or have had eardrum surgery, as it may damage the repair.
Medicated ear drops
Medicated ear drops, such as carbamide peroxide, can help soften earwax. However, these drops can irritate the delicate skin of the eardrum and ear canal, so use them only as directed.
Olive oil or mineral oil
According to Dr. Nguyen-Huynh, some people find that putting a few drops of olive oil or mineral oil in the ear before cleaning helps to lubricate the ear canal and makes it easier to remove wax.
It is important to note that earwax is beneficial and serves an important purpose, such as lubricating and protecting the ears. It also has antibacterial properties that help reduce the risk of ear infections. Therefore, it is usually not necessary to remove earwax unless there is a buildup causing discomfort or affecting hearing. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider for advice or treatment.
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The risks of ear candling
Ear candling, also known as "coning", is an alternative remedy that involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal to create a low-level vacuum that supposedly softens and removes earwax and other impurities. However, this practice is not without risks and has been the subject of several warnings from major health authorities such as the FDA. Here are some of the potential dangers associated with ear candling:
Burning and Fire Hazards: One of the most significant risks of ear candling is the possibility of burns to the face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal from hot wax or ash. The open flame and melting wax pose serious health risks, and even when used according to the manufacturer's directions, there is a high risk of severe burns. Additionally, there is a chance of starting a fire, especially if hot wax or ash falls outside the protective covering.
Earwax Buildup and Blockage: Instead of removing earwax, ear candling can actually push earwax further into the ear canal, causing buildup and blockage. This can lead to temporary hearing loss and increased discomfort. The risk of blockage is especially high in children, who have much smaller ear canals than adults.
Infections and Complications: By opting for ear candling instead of seeking professional medical attention, underlying infections or other conditions may worsen. The ear canal is a delicate area, and the insertion of a candle can introduce foreign substances or cause damage, leading to infections or other complications.
Lack of Scientific Evidence: There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of ear candling. Studies have shown that ear candles do not produce negative pressure or suction, and there is no proof that they remove earwax or impurities. In fact, the debris found inside burned candles is often a blend of candle wax and fabric, even when the candles have not been near an ear canal.
Hearing Loss: The act of inserting a candle into the ear carries the risk of accidentally piercing the eardrum, which can result in significant harm and discomfort, often requiring the attention of a hearing professional. Additionally, if candle wax drips into the ear canal, it can cause a temporary loss of hearing.
While ear candling may seem like a peaceful and natural solution for earwax buildup, it is important to recognize the potential dangers associated with this practice. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for safe and effective alternatives to ear candling.
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The science behind ear candling
Ear candling, also known as "coning," is an alternative remedy used to draw out impurities and wax from the inner ear. The process involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal, which is supposed to create a low-level vacuum that softens and removes earwax and other impurities. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness or safety of ear candling.
The technique has been practiced for thousands of years, with proponents claiming that the heat from the candle creates suction to pull out earwax and debris. They also believe that the smoke from the burning candles dries the ear canal and stimulates the body's natural excretion of impurities. However, studies have shown that ear candles do not produce any negative pressure or suction. The temperature produced by the candle is also below body temperature, which is too low to melt the wax.
Additionally, the practice of ear candling comes with significant risks and side effects. The hot wax and ash can burn the face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal. There is also a risk of the candle pushing the natural ear wax deeper into the ear canal, causing blockages and temporary hearing loss. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against the use of ear candles due to the lack of scientific evidence for any medical benefit and the potential for severe skin and hair burns and middle ear damage.
While ear candling may seem like a peaceful and natural way to remove earwax, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare provider for safe and effective alternatives. Over-the-counter ear drops or home remedies such as dripping water or hydrogen peroxide into the ear canal can help soften and remove earwax without the risks associated with ear candling.
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Frequently asked questions
Ear candling is a form of alternative medicine that involves placing a hollow candle in the ear canal and lighting the other end. The candle is allowed to burn for up to 20 minutes and is believed to create a vacuum that draws out earwax, debris, and impurities.
Proponents of ear candling claim that the process removes earwax, debris, and impurities from the ear canal. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, studies have shown that ear candling does not create any suction and can even lead to candle wax buildup in the ear canal.
Ear candling is not considered safe by medical professionals. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against its use due to the risk of severe burns, middle ear damage, and other injuries. There is also a risk of fire when using lit candles close to the face. Additionally, ear candling can worsen earwax buildup and may lead to infections or other conditions if used instead of seeking medical attention.
Yes, there are safer alternatives to ear candling for earwax removal. These include over-the-counter ear drops, hydrogen peroxide, or warm olive oil. If you think you have excessive earwax buildup, it is recommended to consult a doctor or a healthcare provider for professional cleaning or advice on safe at-home treatments.
