Ear candling basically involves the insertion of the unlit end of a lighted candle in the ear canal. This technique is also known as ear coning and thermal-auricular therapy, and is supposed to have several health benefits.
Ear candling is an age-old practice that is believed to have a rejuvenating effect on the overall well-being of an individual. The practice of ear coning or candling dates back to about 2, 500 years, and the ancient Egyptians, Tibetans, Chinese, and American Indians were known to use this alternative therapy. Nowadays, its popularity has grown in the developed countries, mainly due to its presumed effects on human health and vitality. So. let’s find out the basics of ear candling, and its benefits and side effects.
The Technique
In ear candling, a hollow candle, known as ‘ear candle’ is used. The ear candle used in this therapy is quite different from the commonly used candles. Ear candles are usually made from cotton or linen, and are soaked in wax. Usually, soy or beeswax, as well as paraffin wax are used for this purpose.
In ear coning, one end of this candle is lighted, and the other end is placed in the ear canal of the individual. A specially designed plate with a hole in the middle is used in the process. The candle in inserted through this hole and then placed in the ear canal. This helps prevent the candle wax from entering the ear canal.
The process of placing a hollow lighted candle in the ear canal is claimed to generate heat that melts down the hard and solid earwax. At the same time, the process creates a vacuum, which draws out the melted earwax into the candle. This in turn, can help improve hearing and alleviate different ear problems like tinnitus, and temporary loss of hearing due to the accumulation of excess earwax.
Many proponents also claim that this procedure has some other health benefits. It is believed that ear candling has a stimulating and invigorating effect on the central nervous system, mainly on the brain. It can improve lymphatic circulation, alleviate ear infections, sinusitis, as well as the pain and fever associated with a ruptured eardrum. It can balance the pressure in the ear and purify the blood. Many people believe that this process has a spiritual effect that purifies the mind, and opens up the spiritual centers or energy points. This process is presumed to have a soothing and relaxing effect on the mind, as it can reduce stress and restore emotional balance.
Risks of Ear Candling
The effectiveness of ear candling in removing earwax is questioned by many people with the allegation that the debris accumulated in the candle is actually the residue of the candle itself, and not earwax. Moreover, there are certain risks associated with the procedure, that can range from minor burns to blockage of the ear canal, and damage to the eardrums. Therefore, it is not advisable to perform ear candling on your own. People who believe in the benefits of this procedure usually go to a professional who can perform it by following the appropriate instructions.
Considering the health hazards associated with the procedure, the sale and import of ear candles for medical purposes have been declared illegal by the United States. Before opting for this alternative therapy, it is better to evaluate the various pros and cons. It is also important to keep in mind that in addition to the risks involved, most of the health benefits of this therapy as asserted by its proponents, have not been proved by scientific studies.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.
