Healing ear infections, naturally

There are many children that are plagued with painful ear infections, especially during the winter months as we are more susceptible to colds and flu. Although using natural remedies shouldn't always replace a visit to your pediatrician in acute cases, they can provide immediate healing and comfort. And although antibiotics may be necessary in some cases, even medical doctors are reluctant to hand out antibiotics every time there is an infection because of the damaging effects they can have on our immune systems making us susceptible to even more disease.

However, there are other ways to deal with ear infections that are safe, effective and soothing. The remedy I most often have used both when my children were young as well as myself when my ears begin to feel discomfort is a Garlic Mullein Flower Remedy. I collect mullein flowers through out the later months of summer and into the fall to dry and store for use during the winter. As you may not likely have mullein flowers on hand, especially during the cold and flu season, you can use just garlic. I pour about a 1/4 cup of olive oil into a pan, and very slowly heat with a clove of garlic and about a tsp. of dried mullein flowers. I don't chop the garlic so as not to worry about any small garlic pieces getting into the ear. Sometimes I will make a larger batch and store in the refrigerator to use as needed. After heating enough to release the smell of garlic into the oil, I let it cool to about body temperature. I have applied it in one of two ways. I will often apply it using a cotton ball in which I then place in the ear and let sit, perhaps pressing a hot water bottle to the ear as well. I will also take a dropper full of oil and carefully apply several drops around the ear canal, allowing it to slowly seep into the ear.

Doses of acidophilus given several times a day is also helpful in healing ear infections. It is more effective than eating yogurt since it's a good idea to eliminate dairy products and sugary foods during ear infections.

Another remedy that is effective for healing hear infections is making an onion pack. Saute fresh onion in olive oil until translucent. While still hot, place cooked onions on a piece of cotton cloth or flannel and fold and then hold to the ear as a hot pack.

According to Rosemary Gladstar, well known herbalist, in traditional chinese medicine, it is believed that the health of our kidneys is directly related to the health of our ears. She recommends that providing your child with warm packs for his/her lower back, providing plenty of fluids and cranberry juice to support the kidneys will benefit the condition of the ears greatly.

Have a warm and healthy winter!