A middle ear infection is caused by mucus buildup in the ear that can become infected. This can often be the result of a virus, allergies, or other illnesses that cause congestion and swelling that ultimately leads to mucus build up and bacteria in the ear. A lot of the time these go away on their own. Our body is amazing at healing itself! But sometimes, treatment is necessary to kill off the bacteria and clear out the ear. So, let’s talk about some natural remedies for an ear infection.
Signs of an Ear Infection
First of all, children are more likely to develop an ear infection than adults because of the size and shape of their eustachian tube. This is the tube that connects the ear to the throat near the nasal passages. When it becomes inflamed, mucus can build up and when it cannot get out, it can create bacteria.
Children are also still developing their little immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. So, it is important to know the signs for an ear infection and start treatment right away. Below are some of the most common signs of ear infections among children.
- Ear pain/tugging on the ear
- Trouble sleeping
- Fussiness/excessive crying
- Trouble hearing
- Fever
- Drainage from the ears
If your child is experiencing multiple of these symptoms, there is a good chance they may have an ear infection. To confirm, either schedule an appointment with your pediatrician or you can purchase an otoscope to have on hand.
How to Naturally Treat an Ear Infection
If you end up going to your pediatrician, they are most likely recommending a round of antibiotics for the ear infection. And hear me out, there is a time and place for antibiotics. I have given my children antibiotics for ear infections that I caught too late, and I felt had developed too far. But, when I have caught them right away, I have found great success treating the infection at home in just a few days without much effort.
The first thing I always pull out of the cabinet when my child has an ear infection is this organic ear oil. I have found these drops to work very well at killing off the bacteria and bonus, my kids think they feel amazing. I use these drops multiple times a day when an ear infection is present or once a day at the onset of a cold. Let’s take a look at the ingredients listed.
- Olive oil: Used to help things get moving in the ear by softening and loosening the buildup. Also contains antiviral and antibacterial properties.
- Lavender oil: Used to sooth and calm the inflammation in the ear. This will reduce the pain and swelling.
- Mullein extract: Antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. When used with garlic, it can be as effective as amoxicillin.
- Tea tree oil: Used to remove build up in the ear. Has anti-viral and antibacterial properties.
- Echinacea extract: Immune boosting properties will help the body be able to heal quicker from the infection.
- Garlic oil: Known as the natural antibiotic. When used with mullein, it can be as effective as amoxicillin.
You can also purchase these ingredients separately and use them as needed on the ear.
Along with the drops I put a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in the ear a few times a day. This helps to loosen the buildup in the ear and push it out. Place drops in the ear and let sit for 10-15 seconds before turning your head over to pour out.
Other things I do on top of the drops to treat an ear infection at home include consuming lots of liquids, taking vitamin C, and heating a rice or salt sock and putting it on the ear. You can also consume lots of raw garlic. If you have followed this blog for any time at all, you know we are huge fans of raw garlic. It can help alleviate all sorts of ailments. You can read more about all the benefits here.
The final way to help with an ear infection at home is by chopping up an onion, microwaving it until it is a bit soft, and then securing it to the ear. Sounds crazy I know! But it can help pull out the bacteria in the ear.
If you have a history of ear infections, seeking out help from a chiropractor can also be extremely beneficial.
Like always, if you are ever concerned or feel you cannot handle the illness at home, please call your pediatrician! But if you can catch the ear infection early and want to avoid antibiotics, try some of the above.
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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not meant to be medical advice in any capacity. It is informative in nature, only. Please always consult your doctor for medical advice. Pregnant and nursing moms need to consult with their doctors as well before consuming any herbal medicine.
