The earwax that forms in the external ear canals can interfere with the normal function of the ear and, in more serious cases, cause perforation of the eardrum.
It forms in the outermost canal of the ear and is the result of the accumulation of secretions which can also become particularly abundant in conjunction with colds and seasonal allergies.
The earwax can impair hearing ability, generate irritation and inflammation of the ear, and - if not removed quickly - can even cause perforation of the eardrum, or labyrinthitis.
This is why it is important to adopt the right countermeasures to remove it safely, even better with natural remedies. Let's see together what the most effective and safest natural methods are for earwax removal but first let's understand what it is for.
What is earwax and what is it for?
Earwax is a material produced by the sebaceous glands. It serves three functions:
- Protect the walls of the external auditory canal
- To prevent the insertion of foreign bodies, humidity, and other external aggressions into the ear canal.
- Eliminate pathogens and bacteria, thanks to its antibacterial properties and its high Ph
The ear, in its innate mechanism, removes the wax that develops around the eardrum naturally, exhibiting a production rate that differs among individuals.
How does an earwax blockage form? Can it resolve itself?
As anticipated, the ear is a self-cleaning system. Earwax is naturally expelled from the ear. However, it can accumulate to form an obstruction, a real plug, thicker or thinner and more compact. There are many reasons why earwax blockages can occur:
- Abnormal production of earwax
- Repeated use of cotton swabs concentrates accumulated earwax in the ear canal, which then hardens
- The presence of stagnant water in the ear canal
- The presence of many hairs in the ear canal
- A very narrow ear canal
- If you wear a hearing aid that interferes with the natural ear wax removal at home
How to remove earwax at home with natural remedies safely
To remove the earwax from the ear, nature offers various solutions that prove to be truly effective against this unwelcome phenomenon, while other solutions are dangerous and ineffective.
Warning: before putting any suggestion into practice, however, always remember to consult your doctor and in case of acute pain or other pathologies associated with earwax, contact a specialist who will direct you towards the most correct therapy.
Absolutely avoid cotton swabs
If you are struggling with annoying earwax, remember that it is a natural defense put in place by our body. To remove the accumulation, you must avoid using cotton swabs which push the cap further inside without actually removing it. To free your ears from the annoying earwax in a natural way you can try one of the following methods.
Ear candles, a dangerous solution to discard
Candling in the ear, known as Candela or Candela Hopie, is a technique long criticized by ear doctors. However, it is an ear wax cleaning technique that is coming back into fashion, especially thanks to influencers on social networks who promote it. This technique should be avoided because it carries the risk of burns and is ineffective.
Flushing with syringe
To wash your ears with a syringe you can follow these tips step by step:
After softening the earwax with warm olive oil (see how to do it below), cut a paper plate into a half-moon and then hold it close to your ear to collect the water that comes out after washing. Then prepare a cup of water at body temperature (37°) and a syringe of at least 30 ml without a needle!
From the cup, fill the syringe and with your head tilted to the side opposite the ear where you want to remove the earwax, spray the water into the ear canal, pulling the ear upwards with a finger to widen the duct well while holding the flat under the ear because the water flows out immediately, taking the earwax with it.
The idea is to have this procedure done by specialized personnel and with suitable tools. You can repeat 4-5 times and always with warm but not hot water.
Do not spray forcefully but gently to avoid trauma. You could damage your eardrum.
Also Read:- What Is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?
Is Syringing Good For Your Ears?
Using a cerumenolytic spray
Cerumenolytic products can dissolve earwax and facilitate its removal, making them an effective Ear wax remover available without a prescription. You can also try dissolving earwax with a saline solution.
With an infusion of chamomile
Among the most suitable plants for eliminating earwax, chamomile stands out for its notable antiseptic and emollient properties, serving as a natural ear wax cleaner. To make an infusion, heat a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water. Allow the infusion to settle for 10 minutes. After this time, filter the liquid with a strainer and gently proceed to wash the ears with the warm liquid as described in the syringe procedure.
Avoid olive oil
This is probably the best-known method in the world for removing wax plugs from the ears. Fill the ear with warm olive oil, allowing it to penetrate drop by drop to soften the plug. It is potentially risky and not recommended by professionals.
In conclusion, managing earwax safely at home involves understanding its natural role, avoiding potentially harmful methods like ear candling or using cotton swabs, and opting for safer alternatives like saline solutions, cerumenolytic sprays, and chamomile infusions. Always seek professional guidance in case of discomfort or persistent issues.