Introduction
Ear candles are candles that have probably been used for a long time by various traditional peoples to clean their ears. Nowadays they are used in the wellness area or in naturopathy and are not only used for cleaning the ears but also for stress reduction and treatment of many other symptoms. They are also called Hopi candles, after an Indian tribe that is said to have used them first. Also body candle is a common term for it.
Structure of an ear candle
Ear candles are about 20cm long tubes with a diameter of about 6mm. Since there are many different manufacturers, the ear candles differ in their appearance and in the materials used. Some are cylindrical, others conical.
Most ear candles are made of flammable beeswax and of cotton and linen. In addition, essential oils and pulverized plant components are the main components of an ear candle. The oils and fragrances are selected according to the treatment intention.
Application of ear candles
The patient lies on his side during the treatment with an ear candle. The head can be supported by a flat pillow. The treating person sits next to the patient.
One end of the ear candle (in case of a cylindrical candle the smaller end) is inserted vertically into the external auditory canal. The ear and the surrounding tissue are covered with a cloth to prevent the dripping wax from causing burns. Then the ear candle is lit at the upper end.
It is important that the ear candle sits sealed at the ear, so that the desired negative pressure can develop. If white steam is produced when lighting the candle, this indicates that it does not sit tightly, but it can be sealed by light pressure and rotation. It is left to burn until it reaches a mark at the bottom, then the candle is placed in a container with water to extinguish it. Any residue that may have remained on the ear hairs is removed. Afterwards, the patient should remain lying down for about 10 minutes, possibly in a quiet room with soft background music to help relax until the other ear is treated.
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