The use of mullein oil for ear infections is touted as an effectual remedy to combat pain, swelling and other discomfort symptoms. Instead of buying mullein oil from market, you can prepare a homemade version for ear infection treatment. Read on to find out more.
Mullein oil is derived from different parts of the mullein plant, scientifically represented as Verbascum thapsus. You might have known this biennial herb by different names, like woolly mullin, Aaron’s rod, Adam’s flannel, velvet plant or flannel plant. Possessing therapeutic properties, mullein uses are attributed to addressing skin problems, earache and infection problems in the natural way. In fact, the use of mullein oil for ear infection treatment has been known for centuries. Let’s look into mullein oil preparation and tips for using mullein oil for ear infections.
Mullein Oil Preparation at Home
Therapeutically, mullein oil is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial in action. It is effectual for alleviating pain, swelling and inflammatory conditions. Mullein essential oil is produced on a large-scale, and one can prepare this curative oil at home. The source plant is abundantly found in North America, Asia and Europe. While roots, leaves and flowers are used for extraction of mullein oil, flowers (fresh or dried) are commonly used for making homemade mullein oil. For the same, identifying correct herb and collection of disease free flowers are prerequisites.
In order to use infused mullein oil to treat ear infections, it is prepared by infusion method. In the infused mullein oil recipe, add fresh or dried blooms in a clean jar. Fill the jar with olive oil till the neck, and stir to remove air bubbles (if any). Tighten the jar lid, and place it in a warm place, preferably in the sun or near the window. Shake everyday and after about 2 weeks, strain the oil. Keep it in a clean container for using it for your ears and skin. You will be surprised with the benefits of mullein oil for addressing outer and middle ear infections. Read more on medicinal properties of mullein.
Using Mullein Oil for Ear Infection Treatment
As aforementioned, mullein oil is effective for dealing with bacterial infections. Thus, it makes an excellent topical ointment for treating ear infections, especially in children who are very sensitive to antibiotics and other allopathic formulations. One word of caution regarding application of mullein oil for ears is, the eardrum should be in intact form. If, by any chance, eardrum is perforated, refrain from using this curative oil and any other herbal formulations. Otherwise, the oil may seep into the inner ear and cause complications. For such a case, visit the otologist as soon as possible.
The typical way of using mullein oil for tinnitus and ear infections is, instill a few drops of warm oil in the ear canal, and place a cotton ball over ear to avoid dripping. While the oil works against the causal bacteria, the warm temperature gives a soothing effect to the ears. However, make sure that the oil is not too hot to handle. It should be lukewarm and comfortable for applying in the sensitive ears. For use in children, the suggested amount of warm mullein oil is 4-5 drops maximum. Most likely, ear infection symptoms will subside gradually.
An impressive part with application of mullein oil for ear infections is that it reduces the likeness of antibiotic resistance, which is a common adverse effect of taking antibacterial medications frequently. Thus, with infused mullein oil, treatment of ear infections is achieved without any major side effects. Besides its application for addressing ear infections, mullein oil is also used for addressing several other ear problems. Right from mild ear pain to swimmer’s ear and tinnitus, this plant-based oil serves as an excellent herbal medicine.
In addition to treating ear problems, mullein uses include treatment of skin infection, gastrointestinal disorders and lung problems. Nevertheless, before using it for therapeutic purposes, consult a trusted herbalist about safety of the oil and dosage intake. Also, never use a herbal medicine for an extended period, unless it is directed by the doctor.
