Ear candles are handmade from beeswax and unbleached cotton cloths. They are usually nine to 12 inches in length and burn for about 10 minutes. Many practitioners of ear candling are now rediscovering this art. It is a simple and natural therapy that cleanses the ear canal and sinus passages.

It can also be used to detoxify the lymphatic system, for migraines, to restore some forms of hearing loss and improve clarity of hearing, sight and smell. During the process called 'convection', softer earwax and toxins will be drawn out of the ear, oxidised and turned into vapour.

You would not believe the volume of dirt, wax and toxins that build up over time in the ear canal. Ear candling relaxes and calms the mind; facilitates alert and clearer thinking; balances pressure in the ears and the forehead; relieves sinus congestion, snoring, sore throat and headaches and increases the quantity and quality of inner energy.

Hopi ear candling

The Native-American culture such as the Hopi Indians, the Aztecs and Mayan used candling in healing and purification before initiation rites. It is now practised in North America in a few massage rooms along with music and scented candles.

The Hopi Indian tribe brought ear candling to the Western world. Their candles are made of cotton gauze rolled and dipped in the purest beeswax and honey extract. The entire treatment for both ears will last for about an hour. Two to four candles are recommended per session.

Ear candles are available in the health-food stores and instructions should be adhered to. Ear candling can be complemented with calming instrumental music and is a pleasant experience.

Warning

Ear candling should not be used if one has a perforated eardrum, had done sinus surgery or is experiencing bleeding or draining of fluids from the ear.

Dr Diane Robertson is a pharmacist and recipient of an honorary doctorate in complementary medicine for her work in herbs; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.