Chinese Herbal Remedies For Tinnitus

Tinnitus is characterized by chronic ringing in your ears when there is no external source of the noise, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is not a disorder in itself but is typically a symptom of an underlying condition, such as hearing loss, anemia, high blood pressure or infection. Some drugs, such as aspirin, alcohol, caffeine and antibiotics may also contribute to tinnitus. Although there is no cure for tinnitus, certain Chinese herbs may help reduce the symptoms of this condition. Check with your doctor before using any herb to treat tinnitus.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba is an herb derived from the ginkgo tree, which is one of the oldest surviving trees in the world, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." The chemical compounds in ginkgo biloba may enhance blood flow to the blood vessels and capillaries of your ears, which may reduce ringing sounds and improve hearing. Check with your doctor if you plan to treat tinnitus with ginkgo biloba. In rare cases, this herb may cause irritability, nausea and vomiting.

Ginger

Chinese healers used ginger as a medicinal herb as early as 3,000 B.C. These healers believed that the herb could help prevent kidney stones. The chemical compounds in ginger may boost your body's immune system, helping to destroy bacteria and virus cells that can damage your ears, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It may also improve circulation, enhancing delivery of vitamins and nutrients necessary for proper hearing. Consult your physician if you plan to use ginger to combat tinnitus. Although side effects are rare, this herb may contribute to heartburn and nausea.

Licorice

Ancient Chinese physicians used licorice as a remedy for food poisoning, respiratory distress, cough and malaria more than 5,000 years ago, according to Castleman. This herb may help your body fight off bacterial and viral infections that may contribute to tinnitus. Licorice may also decrease inflammation in your ear canals that can contribute to hearing loss and ringing in your ears. Talk to your physician before treating tinnitus with licorice. This herb may cause diarrhea.