Ear infections, especially acute ear infections, are one of the most common reasons for doctor visits among children. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that most ear infections, also known as otitis media, involve inflammation of the middle ear, which is located behind your tympanic membrane, or eardrum. Certain herbs may be beneficial in treating your ear infection, but always consult your family doctor before using herbs for this health purpose.
About Ear Infections
Ear infections may develop if your eustachian tube -- the channel that links your pharynx to your middle ear -- becomes blocked. Possible causes of a blocked eustachian tube, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, include respiratory infection, allergies, exposure to cigarette smoke and infected tonsils. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with ear infections include earache, fullness or pressure in your ear, and hearing loss in your affected ear.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies have long been used in treating ear infections with pressure. However, not all herbs used for this health problem may be backed by extensive scientific research evidence. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," useful remedies in treating your ear infection with pressure may include astragalus, echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, mullein, olive leaf extract, onion and St. John's wort. Some of these herbs are ingested while others may be used in ear drops.
Highlighted Remedy
Goldenseal, also known as Hydrastis canadensis, is a commonly used herbal remedy in treating your otitis media. Naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," reports that goldenseal has historically been used in treating many ailments, including bedsores, chronic dyspepsia, conjunctivitis, gonorrhea, otitis media, pneumonia, syphilis, thrush, ulcerations and yeast infections. Goldenseal, notes Mitchell, is a powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal agent.
Warning
Ear infections with pressure should always be managed by a licensed health care practitioner. Avoid self-treating your condition with herbal remedies until you have discussed the immediate and long-term health implications of this natural healing method. Your doctor may recommend other, more conventional treatment approaches for your otitis media, and you should not use herbs in place of these suggestions. Herbs are not without their own risks and side effects, and they should only be taken under the guidance of a physician or other health professional.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Ear Infection - Acute
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Otitis Media
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
