There are three categories of ear infection: outer, middle and inner. Middle ear infections—known medically as otitis media—are the most common, and they mainly affect children. Interest in alternative treatments for otitis media is growing, as there is increasing concern about antibiotic resistance. Natural treatments for middle ear infections are safe and effective; however, it is crucial to obtain a correct diagnosis and be diligent with the treatment, otherwise serious complications may occur, such as mastoiditis or hearing loss.
Botanical Medicine
A 2001 study in the "Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine" and a 2003 American Academy of Pediatrics study in "Pediatrics" show that naturopathic botanical ear drops are as effective as antibiotic and anesthetic drops at reducing otitis media pain, while being less toxic. Naturopathic drops have an olive oil base and may include some combination of the botanicals garlic, mullein, calendula, St. John’s wort and lavender. Immune enhancing herbs may also be taken orally, such as echinacea.
Diet
Research literature has established a strong causative link between food allergies and otitis media. According to Drs. Michael Murray and Peter Bongiorno, naturopathic physicians and contributors to the “Textbook of Natural Medicine,” a child’s digestive tract is significantly permeable to food antigens. Avoidance of food allergens may help treat and prevent ear infections. Commonly allergenic foods include wheat, cow’s milk, egg, peanuts, corn, citrus and chocolate. The dairy category does not include breast milk, which enhances immunity and prevents infection. Also, especially during an acute infection, avoid simple carbohydrates which weaken immunity, including sugar, artificial sweeteners, dried fruit and concentrated fruit juice.
Homeopathy
Certain homeopathic remedies may be effective in treating otitis media and preventing recurrence. Homeopathic remedies commonly prescribed for middle ear infections, as described by Dr. Roger Morrison, a medical doctor, homeopath and author of “Desktop Companion to Physical Pathology,” include chamomilla, mercurius, pulsatilla, silica and belladonna. Homeopathy is a complex medical art, but with analysis, a skilled homeopath can select an appropriate remedy based on a patient’s unique symptoms, mental status and general tendencies.
Nutritional Supplements
Certain nutrients support the immune system’s innate action of fighting infection and preventing recurrence. Drs. Murray and Bongiorno suggest a children’s multivitamin and mineral formula, vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C, bioflavonoids and zinc. Dosages vary depending on the age of a child, so consult a holistically minded physician for guidance.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Ear infection, middle ear
- FamilyPracticeNotebook.com: Otitis media
- “Pediatrics”; Naturopathic treatment for ear pain in children; EM Sarrell, et. al.; 2003
- “Textbook of Natural Medicine”; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. & Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- “Desktop Companion to Physical Pathology”; Roger Morrison, M.D.; 1998
