Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, is a very common condition, affecting up to 15 percent of the population, according to the Merck Manuals. In Natural Medicine, herbs such as ginkgo biloba and homeopathically prepared herbs such as Conium and Chenopodium are commonly recommended by alternative health care practitioners for tinnitus. Consult a qualified practitioner to find out which herb would work best for you, as well as dosage, possible side effects and drug interactions.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is one of oldest and most used herbs in natural medicine. According to Drugs.com, ginkgo has been known for more than 1,000 years for its medicinal qualities. In Europe, a standardized extract of ginkgo is a commonly prescribed drug, while in North America it is available as over the counter supplement.
In relation to tinnitus, research studies yielded mixed results. Some clinical trials concluded that is an effective herb, while others showed no benefit on improving this condition. For example, a positive study by NL.Kunel'skaia from the 2009 issue of Russian journal Vestnick Otorinolaringologii evaluated the European,EGb 761 standardized extract of ginkgo for tinnitus and a form of hearing loss. The authors concluded that ginkgo extract used without other medications improved hearing function and significantly decreased subjective ringing in the ears, and the results were stable during the whole 12 months of study.
Conium Maculatum 30 CH
Conium, also known as hemlock, is a perennial plant native to Europe. Conium 30 CH is a homeopathic, non-toxic extract of this plant, commonly used by homeopaths and naturopaths for a variety of health concerns, including tinnitus. Asa Hershoff, ND, DC and author of "Homeopathic Remedies-A Quick and Easy Guide to Common disorders and their Treatments," recommends Conium if the following symptoms are present: ringing in the ears with a sharp quality, ringing associated with impaired hearing and if symptoms become worse after eating, at night or after consuming alcohol. Conium homeopathic remedy is indicated also in older people suffering from tinnitus.
Chenopodium 30 CH
Another homeopathically prepared herb recommended by Hershoff for tinnitus is Chenopodium 30 CH. Individuals who may benefit from this remedy feel buzzing and ringing in the ears that occurs in the same rhythm with the heartbeats, may be associated with ear infections and impaired hearing with progression towards deafness.
If you suffer from ringing in the ears, consult a qualified homeopath, because your unique symptoms have to perfectly match the qualities of the remedy in order to be effective. Chenopodium and Conium are two common homeopathic herb remedies used for tinnitus, however there are many other homeopathic products that may help you.
References
- Merck Manual: Tinnitus
- PubMed.gov: [Assessment of efficacy and tolerance of tanakan during treatment of sensorineural bradyacuasia and tympanophonia].
- Drugs.com: Gingko
- "Homeopathic Remedies: A Quick and Easy Guide to Common Disorders and Their Homeopathic Remedies"; Asa Hershoff N.D.; 2000
