Helen Githiomi - Physiotherapist, Counsellor and Massage Therapist

 

What Is It?

The use of ear candles has been used by many cultures since ancient times from the Siberian prairies, Asia and the native North and South American Indians.  Ancient rock paintings show the use of ear candles at initiation rituals and medicinal ceremonies. The process involves a specially designed hollow candle being inserted just inside the ear canal.  The candles are made of organic cotton impregnated with beeswax, honey,and the herbs sage, St. John's Wort and chamomile.

How does it work?

The heat created is relaxing, opening the pores of the skin drawing out impurities and the essences from the herbs are absorbed into the blood stream and circulate around the body.

The molecules in the air vibrate as they heat up and this vibration is transferred down the ear canal to the ear drum and the small bones in the middle ear. This acts like an inner ear massage. The vibration can have a positive effect on any blockage in the eustachian tube or tubes leading to the sinuses (air spaces in the bones of the head). It can also help equalise pressure that may have built up due to these blockages.

What are the Benefits?

This is a very relaxing and soothing treatment, creating a pleasant warmth, balancing pressure within the ears and sinuses. It can be helpful in the following conditions:

There is no scientific evidence available that Ear Candling can cure any of the above conditions, but there are a growing number of people who claim that the treatment has had a positive effect on their problem.

What happens in a treatment?

Both ears are treated even if there is only a problem with one ear. You lie comfortably on a couch on your side and the candle is placed in the ear canal. The candle is held firmly in place by the therapist whilst it is burning, at all times protecting the face and hair. The burn time can vary between 10-15 minutes depending on how clear or blocked the ear or sinuses are. This can vary from treatment to treatment.

Once the candles have been applied to each ear a soothing yet stimulating massage is applied to the face and neck, followed by a short rest.

Anyone can be treated with Ear Candles including children, provided they are accompanied by an adult and the appropriate consent forms have been signed

Contra-indications

Very rarely allergic reactions to the ingredients are reported. This takes the form of itching.