Home Remedies for Ear Infections

Ear infections are caused by bacteria which travel to the inner ear by way of excess mucous and fluid. Common in children and less common in adults, ear infections were often treated by natural remedies until antibiotics took over as the preferred method. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, concerns about overuse of antibiotics have led many people to return to natural remedies, trying them first before opting for a prescription.

Heat

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, applying heat to infected ears in the form of warm water bottles or warm bags of salt can ease pain associated with antibiotics. The Center states that in 70 to 80 percent of cases, ear infections clear on their own and no antibiotics are needed.

Garlic

• Garlic is known throughout the alternative medicine community for its strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. According to the Home Remedy Reference Center, applying garlic oil drops to infected ears remedies infections. Add three drops to each ear, letting the drops soak in for at least five minutes before switching ears.

Rubbing Alcohol

• Swimming is a common cause of ear infections in children because water trapped inside the ear creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. The Home Remedy Reference Center states that placing cotton balls into the ears which have been saturated in rubbing alcohol draws moisture out of the ear, both preventing and helping to treat infections.

Tea Tree Oil

• Much like garlic, tea tree oil has strong antibacterial properties. When applied to the ear, it is said to kill infection causing bacteria. For some people, tea tree oil can irritate the skin, so to use it, the Home Remedy Resource Center recommends diluting it in a solution of 50 percent tea tree oil and 50 percent vegetable oil. Three to five drops are good for each ear.