Ear
infection / inflammation
Most cases of ear infection, whether they involve the outer ear
canal (“swimmer’s ear”) or the middle ear, are
caused by bacteria and accumulation of fluid. The resulting pressure
can be quite painful, and a fever can be present as well. The bacteria
thrive in a very narrow pH, so applications of vinegar can be helpful.
Fortunately, by eliminating sources of refined sugar from the diet,
these infections often resolve on their own.
Often, there will be no presenting signs aside from a report of
pain (and in small children, pulling and rubbing the ears along
with crankiness). Sometimes a discharge will be present.
An important consideration: even if there is only pain in one ear,
treat both.
Treatment Goal(s):
· Eliminate infection, manage fever, alleviate pain.
Primary Treatment:
· Eardrops of Verbascum thapsus (Mullein) and Allium sativum
(Garlic), warm, 3-5 drops at a time, in both ears. Repeat 3 times
daily.
· Eardrops of apple cider vinegar, warm, 3 drops at a time,
in both ears. Repeat twice daily.
· Essential oil of Mentha piperita (Peppermint), applied
on temples for pain relief.
Supportive Treatment:
· Internally administer tincture of Eschcolzica californica
(California Poppy), 30-60 drops as needed for pain relief.
· Use tincture of Echinacea, 1 teaspoon every hour until
symptoms subside (adult dose)
· Probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus can help strengthen
immunity and resistance to ear infections.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· If there is a fever, use diaphoretics such as Sambucus
nigra (Elder) flowers, in the evening in the form of a hot infusion.
Monitor the fever and treat it accordingly (See “Fevers”).
· Keep the ears clean and allow them to fully drain.
