The Dangers & Misconceptions of Ear Candling (2024)

The Dangers & Misconceptions of Ear Candling

Ear candling is an ancient practice believed to help clear earwax and other impurities from the ear. It involves placing a lit, hollow candle inside the ear canal. Many people are curious about its effectiveness and potential benefits.

Despite being an old tradition, questions still arise about how ear candling works and whether it's safe. Understanding the process and the hazards involved can help you make informed decisions about your health. This article will explore the misconceptions, health risks, and scientific evidence surrounding ear candling.

Why Ear Candling Is Unsafe and Risky

Ear candling, despite its historical roots, poses significant health risks and safety concerns. Audiologists and other medical experts worldwide agree that ear candling is a dangerous and archaic practice. The procedure involves inserting a lit, hollow candle into the ear canal, which can lead to burns, blockages, and even perforated eardrums. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been warning against ear candling since early 2010, highlighting its potential to cause serious injuries, even when used according to directions.

One crucial aspect to consider is that ear candling can distract you from seeking necessary professional care for underlying conditions that may require medical attention. Consulting a hearing doctor is always advisable if you're concerned about earwax buildup or experiencing hearing difficulties. A thorough professional medical assessment ensures you receive appropriate treatment without risking long-term damage. Opting for safe, effective alternatives under professional guidance is always the best practice for maintaining excellent ear health.

What Is Ear Candling?

Ear candling or ear coning, also known as thermal auricular therapy, is an alternative medicine practice aimed at clearing the ear and head. It uses a hollow candle, typically 10-12 inches long and tapered at one end.

Sometimes, practitioners also employ hollow fabric cones coated in paraffin or beeswax. The individual lies on their side, and the candle is inserted into the ear, creating a seal. A guard made of plastic, aluminum, or paper is often used to catch dripping wax. The candle is then lit and allowed to burn down. As it burns, it is occasionally trimmed.

When it reaches a few inches from the face, the candle is extinguished. Proponents claim that the heat from the flame creates negative pressure, which softens earwax and extracts impurities. Practitioners sometimes open the candle afterward to show a black or brown substance, which they assert is removed debris.

Does Ear Candling Work?

Despite its popularity, ear candling's effectiveness is unfounded and unsupported by scientific evidence. The FDA has not approved ear candles for any medical use and has even seized products and warned against their distribution. Research also debunks the key claims made by proponents of this practice. Most candle flames don’t create enough suction to pull liquid from an ear. Earwax is sticky and stubborn, making it hard to remove this way.

The heat from ear candles is generally too low to soften earwax effectively. In some instances, ear candling can even lead to more earwax buildup rather than removal. The residue seen inside the candle after burning is mainly burnt material from the candle itself, not impurities from the ear. Testing has shown that this residue is present even when the candle is burned without being near an ear. Thus, there is no solid scientific basis for ear candling, making it an ineffective and unreliable method for earwax removal.

Beware of the Many Risks Involved With Ear Candling

Ear candling presents multiple risks that far outweigh any perceived benefits. First, earwax doesn't necessarily need to be cleaned out. It serves crucial protective functions, shielding your ears from dust, bacteria, and other harmful elements. Earwax aids in the natural cleaning process, collecting debris and eventually falling out on its own. Medical professionals advise against removing earwax unless it's causing a problem.

Ear candling can expose your ears to high heat and wax drippings, leading to potential burns on your face, neck, and scalp. If hot wax enters your ear canal, it can cause severe damage, including bleeding, infections, and even hearing loss. Not only does the heat fail to effectively remove earwax, but it can also push it deeper into your ear, creating more problems. Fallen ash and minute powder deposits from candles may also require professional removal later.

Ear candling also poses a significant risk of starting a fire. Hair, clothes, and other surrounding materials are susceptible to catching fire during the process. These dangers grow exponentially when children are involved.

Ear candling also wastes valuable time and money. Instead of taking risks with this unsafe practice, you should always seek professional care or use safer home methods for managing earwax.

Remove Earwax With Ear Doctor-Approved Methods

The safest way to manage earwax is to let it come out naturally. This natural process protects your ears and usually doesn't cause problems. If you experience discomfort, schedule a visit to an audiology center. Ear specialists can clean your ears using specialized tools. They use methods like scraping, suction, and rinsing to remove excess earwax without harming your ears. Avoid trying home remedies that might push wax deeper. Professional care ensures precise, safe removal, keeping your ears healthy and improving your hearing. Remember, your earwax plays an essential role in keeping your ears clean and protected.

Take Control of Your Ear Health

Your ear health is important. If you are experiencing ear pain or have concerns about excessive earwax buildup, book an appointment at an AudioNova hearing center today. Our hearing experts use safe, effective methods to manage earwax and give you the best care possible.

Don't take chances with unsafe practices like ear candling. Trust our hearing experts to provide you with accurate information and professional treatment. Our knowledgeable team is here to support your hearing health journey. Schedule your visit now to experience the benefits of professional ear care and enhance your overall well-being.