Ear infections are one of the most common health issues, particularly among infants and young children.

Typically, they are treated with antibiotics, however, with the rising concerns over antibiotic resistance, gut microbiome damage, and potential for recurrent infections, utilizing natural and clinically-tested remedies may be a more preferable option.

In this article, I go over clinically-tested natural remedies for ear infections as well as an overview of what ear infections are, causes, and symptoms.

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What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection, medically referred to as otitis media, is a condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of the middle ear—the space behind the eardrum. This usually occurs when bacteria or viruses from a cold, sore throat, or upper respiratory tract respiratory infection spread to the middle ear via the Eustachian tubes.

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Causes of Ear Infections

• Upper respiratory infections (common cold or flu)
• Allergies – this causes nasal congestion and Eustachian tube blockage
• Sinus infections
• Second-hand smoke exposure
• Poor air quality
• Bottle feeding while lying down (in children)

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Symptoms of an Ear Infection

• Ear pain or pressure
• Fluid drainage from the ear
• Hearing difficulty
• Irritability or crying in children
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble sleeping

In infants, tugging or pulling at the ears is also a common sign.

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When to See a Doctor

Although natural remedies can be highly effective, seek medical attention immediately if:

• The ear pain is severe or sudden
• A fever exceeding 102°F (39°C)
• Fluid or pus leaking from the ear
• Symptoms persisting beyond 2–3 days
• Hearing loss
• Balance issues or dizziness
• Your child is under 6 months old and shows signs of an ear infection

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Natural Remedies for Ear Infections

Garlic Oil

Garlic is well known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. In a clinical study published in Kufa Medical Journal garlic oil ear drops resulted in an 81% complete improvement rate in patients with chronic suppurative otitis media. It was found to be more effective than neomycin-dexamethasone drops, which showed a 69% success rate. Patients using garlic oil also experienced faster relief and no reported side effects (See study).

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Mullein

Mullein is a medicinal herb known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Mullein’s ability to reduce inflammation and irritation makes it an effective herb in ear oil blends, especially when paired with garlic for enhanced antimicrobial benefits. In fact, in one clinical trial, a herbal ear drop preparation combining mullein, garlic, calendula, and St. John’s Wort was found to be as effective as anesthetic ear drops for easing ear pain in children with acute otitis media (see study).

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Probiotics

Probiotics are well-known for their role in maintaining gut health, however, they also support immune function and reduce inflammation. Common strains used include Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis. In a systematic review of 17 clinical trials, it was found that that probiotic supplementation lowered the incidence of ear infections in children who were not otherwise prone to infections. The study also found a reduced need for antibiotics for any illness among those taking probiotics (see study).

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Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for immune function and respiratory health. It enhances the body’s immune function and may help prevent the overgrowth of pathogens in the upper respiratory tract, thus reducing the risk of ear infections. In a clinical trial, it was found that children with recurrent ear infections had significantly lower levels of Vitamin D. Supplementation with 1,000 IU/day of vitamin D for four months resulted in a reduced number of acute otitis media episodes in otitis-prone children (see study)

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Safety Tips & Precautions

• Always consult a doctor before using natural remedies, especially in children.
• Avoid using any sort of ear drops if the eardrum is perforated or if fluid is leaking from the ear.
• Monitor for allergies or sensitivities to herbs like garlic or mullein.
• Probiotics and vitamin D supplements should be taken after consulting a physician.

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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)

by Dr. Nishal R.
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