Alternative Treatments for Ear Infections

Ear infections are a common and painful ailment in children and adults. Otitis media, a middle ear infection, is the most common ear infection. Traditional treatments include antibiotics, pain killers and ear drops. However, alternative treaments exist as well.

Lemon Juice

• An alternative treatment for chronic ear infections uses lemon juice. An equal amount of lemon juice and saline solution is mixed and then administered by three drops in each nostril three times a day for five days.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Sometimes a deficiency in vitamins and minerals can cause ear infections. A good multi-vitamin with Vitamins A, C and zinc is suggested. Also acidophilus promotes healthy immunity and guards against bacteria that can cause ear infections.

Warm Water

• Some people with ear infections find relief from the pain and inflammation with a warm water bottle or a warm bag of salt applied against the ear.

Valsalva's Maneuver

• Valsalva's Maneuver is a breathing technique that often helps. A deep breath through the mouth is taken and then the person blows his/her nose while pinching it shut. It is cautioned not to blow too hard, which might damage the eardrum. This method is suggested for mild ear pain from infections but does not cure the infection.

White Vinegar

• White vinegar and warm water mixed and then dropped into the painful and infected ear is another home recipe often used. This mixture has been successful in those affected with swimmer's ear and itchy ears.

Cotton Balls

• Cotton balls work well to treat earaches and ear infection. They block out cold, loud noises and bacteria. Warm a little olive oil with garlic on the stove and place a few drops (not too hot) in the ear before inserting the cotton ball, to relieve pain and fight infection.