If you suffer from a ringing in the ears, it's usually a condition known as tinnitus. Tinnitus doesn't only manifest as a ringing--some people experience a buzzing, hissing, clicking, whistling or even roaring in the ears, explains the Mayo Clinic. This can make it difficult to concentrate, sleep and hear. Doctors are often unable to treat tinnitus, which sends most people looking for alternatives to reduce the sound emanating within their heads. Some of these alternatives use herbal remedies to bring about relief.
Ginkgo Biloba
The Mayo Clinic lists ginkgo biloba as an herb commonly used in alternative medicine to treat tinnitus. Though scientific evidence is limited, some research suggests that people suffering from this condition can see improvement in approximately 4 to 6 weeks after taking 120 to 240 mg a day. An evaluation of 19 clinical trials published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information revealed noticeable improvements in patients suffering from tinnitus with ginkgo treatment.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh has been recommended by alternative health practitioners for tinnitus, and may potentially relieve ringing in the ears--however, evidence is mostly anecdotal. People commonly take anywhere between 20 to 40 mg a day to improve cerebral blood flow, which is thought to alleviate the ringing. Some alternative practitioners recommend taking black cohosh in combination with ginkgo biloba, explains Arches Natural Products, the makers of various supplement to treat tinnitus. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should not take this herb as it could lead to premature contractions or delivery.
Mullein
Mullein has shown signs of improving tinnitus, but like black cohosh, only anecdotal evidence exists of its benefit. Therapeutic dosages range from 3 to 4 g per day. Mullein is currently available as either a tincture or a tea. Tinctures are commonly made with a combination of mullein and garlic, which is thought to improve symptoms associated with tinnitus.
Lipoflavanoid
According to the Mayo Clinic, a supplement known as lipoflavanoid has been used to treat tinnitus. Though it contains a combination of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, B6, B12, niacin, thiamine, riboflavin and calcium, this dietary supplement also contains bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids are antioxidants derived from a variety of plants, which are known to combat the effects of free radicals within the body.
