Earache can be caused by a variety of issues, including infections, cold-related congestion, wax build-up or pressure changes. While it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe symptoms, there are several home remedies for earache that may help relieve mild discomfort:
These methods are gentle, accessible, and suitable for both children and adults when symptoms are mild and not accompanied by fever or hearing loss.
Olive oil and garlic are traditional home remedies that may help relieve mild earache symptoms — particularly in cases linked to earwax build-up or minor outer ear irritation. However, they should be used with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment in the case of infection or serious symptoms.
Olive oil for earache:
Garlic oil for earache
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before using oils in the ear—especially for children or if symptoms persist or worsen. Never insert anything into the ear if you suspect a middle ear infection or a perforated eardrum.
The infrared radiation from red light lamps works wonders for chronic ear pain. The warmth of the lamp stimulates the blood circulation and thus the metabolism of the problematic ear. In this way, inflammatory secretions can flow out of the ear canal, which leads to pain relief. Red light also relieves pain in middle ear infections.
How long and how often red light is used for ear pain depends on the severity of the symptoms. However, make sure that the ear is exposed to the lamp for a maximum of ten minutes and at a minimum distance of 50 centimeters to avoid burns.
Onion wraps are a traditional home remedy believed to offer natural relief from ear pain. Onions contain sulphur compounds and antibacterial properties that may help reduce inflammation and discomfort when applied externally.
How to make an onion wrap for earache:
This natural remedy may help soothe mild ear discomfort, particularly in cases linked to colds or sinus pressure. The warmth and natural compounds may aid circulation and reduce swelling.
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When dealing with a mild ear infection, home care can play an important role in managing symptoms and preventing complications. Here are some effective tips for treating an ear infection at home:
If symptoms do not improve within 48 hours or worsen, seek medical advice promptly. Children, in particular, may need professional care sooner.
Earaches are common in children and often occur alongside colds or minor infections. While it’s important to consult a GP if your child has a high fever or persistent pain, there are several home remedies for earache in kids that can offer quick relief:
Avoid inserting anything into your child’s ear, including drops or oils, unless advised by a doctor. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or are accompanied by fever, vomiting or discharge, seek medical attention.
If there is pressure on the ears, home remedies help to clean the ear. If the ears are closed, this is usually due to too much ear wax, a cold or an inflamed ear canal. Those affected can rinse their ears with lukewarm salt water. A steam bath with chamomile also releases the ear pressure. In case of an ear canal infection, onions, chamomile tea and warmth help as a home remedy for blocked ears.
A cold can lead to blocked sinuses and ear pain. Try:
