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Herbal Remedies for Ear Infection
MULLEIN (Verbascum thapsus) is available alone and in combination with other herbs in ear oil products. Eclectic doctors (early forerunners of modem-day naturopaths) commonly used mullein for earaches and especially revered it because of how quickly it works. Eardrops with MULLEIN, ST. JOHN'S WORT and GARLIC in an oil base have been used traditionally to diminish pain from acute ear infections. A drop or two of this warm oil on the eardrum helps relax and anesthetize the membrane, lessening the pain. When inflammation of the middle and inner ear is suspected, a qualified practitioner should be consulted.
ONION PACKS (Allium cepa) are an effective remedy for earaches.
ECHINACEA (Echinacea angustifolia or Echinacea purpurea), should be part of an herbal program for ear infections.
LINDEN FLOWERS (Tilia cordata) enhance the body's resistance to infection, and because of its aroma, children tend to like the tea. Pediatricians at Chicago University conducted a comparative trial of children with colds and found that linden tea and bed rest were more effective than antibiotics at speeding recovery and reducing complications such as ear infections.
GOLDENSEAL (Hydrasds canadensis) and OREGON GRAPE (Berberis aquifolium) contain berberine, a compound that has potent antibiotic activity. Both herbs help reduce inflammation and fight infections.
Dosage: To administer the eardrops, have your child lie on his or her side, place 2 to 3 drops in each ear and secure a small cotton ball over the ear to prevent the oil from leaking out. You can repeat the process three or four times during the day until symptoms subside.
Dosage: Place hot, sauteed onions in a flannel cloth and lay over one or both ears. Leave the pack in place at least 30 minutes, reheating the onions if needed.
Dosage: Echinacea is safe for children under 6 at one-half the suggested adult dosage (1/2 to 1 teaspoon three to four times daily). Place the tincture in juice or tea for easier administration.
Dosage: 1 cup of tea three times daily. Because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties.
GARLIC (Allium sutivum) is not only useful in treating ear infections, but may help prevent them in the first place.
Dosage: Add a few doves of freshly pressed garlic to your food each day, or use up to 3 500-mg capsules daily. Garlic eardrops are also available.
Dosage: 7 to 2 dropperfuls of either goldenseal or Oregon grape tincture, or 1 to 3 500-mg capsules daily. You can also use combination tinctures-follow label instructions.
