Garlic is a herb which belongs to the onion family. It is used as a flavoring agent, and is also used to prevent or treat many medical conditions. The following article provides information about the various methods to prepare garlic oil for the treatment of an ear infection.
Ear infection is a common problem which is caused due to accumulation of fluid in the middle ear. The most common cause of this condition is cold. Cold causes the swelling of the tube which connects the ear to the throat (this tube is referred to as the Eustachian tube). Swelling causes blockage, which traps the fluid inside the ear. In some cases, blocking of this tube causes ear pain while swallowing. Along with this, there are many other reasons for an ear infections like, the presence of bacteria in the ear, viral infection, etc. Garlic oil has proven to be one of the most effective remedies for curing all kinds of ear infections.
Garlic, also known as Allium sativum has anti-bacterial properties which help in relieving pain and cure ear infections. It is a natural blood thinner and hence, its consumption must be avoided in case other blood-thinning medicines are taken. Those who are going to undergo a surgery or those affected by certain blood disorders, should avoid the usage of garlic oil.
Garlic Oil to Treat Ear Infection
There are various methods to make garlic oil which can be used to cure ear infection. Some of the methods are mentioned here.
Method 1:
One option is to prepare it in the microwave. Though this is the easiest method, this oil cannot be used for a longer span of time. To make this oil, heat the oil and garlic together in a bowl for a minute, or till it becomes sufficiently warm. Allow it to cool down and then pour it in your ear with a Q-tip or a dropper. Make sure you use this oil within a day or two, as this oil is not effective after that.
Method 2:
Another option is to allow the garlic and oil to mix thoroughly. For this method, add some garlic to the oil, and pour this solution in a mason jar. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool and dry place. This oil is ready for use after a week. This oil is effective for a week. This earache treatment can prove to be very effective in case the infection does not subside for a few days.
Method 3:
Garlic in combination with olive oil is also a good home remedy. Boil two peeled cloves of garlic in a cup of olive oil for 10 minutes and then strain the solution. For straining, you may use a cheesecloth. The next step is to pour the solution in a jar with the lid sealed tightly and place this jar in the refrigerator. This garlic oil can be used for three weeks. But, make sure that the oil is not too hot when you are using it for the first time. With a dropper, you can put 1 to 2 drops of this oil in the infected ear. After you pour it, gently place cotton in your ears so that the oil does not fall off. For quick relief, use this oil drops after every two hours.
Apart from healing ear infection, garlic oil also has other benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits. The sulfide present in it has antibiotic properties which help in strengthening of the immune system, and also helps fight cancer. The lymphatic system divides this sulfide evenly throughout the body and prevents the formation of blood clots. The chemical compound named ajoene present in it helps in prevention of blood clots. This oil also prevents the formation of tumor. The oil is effective against stomach cancer and development of prostate. It is also used to cure respiratory infections, intestinal issues, and skin diseases. Application of this oil also helps heal wounds and fight infections. The oil is even helpful in reducing the cholesterol level.
As aforementioned, garlic causes blood thinning and hence should be taken only after the advice of a medical practitioner.