Home Treatments for Ear Infection

Ear infections occur when the tube in the middle ear becomes blocked or swollen. Tubal blockage or swelling can occur as a result of a cold or flu. Ear infections are painful, but there are a few home treatments that are considered effective.

Warm Castor Oil or Olive Oil

• With this method, drops of either warm castor oil or warm olive oil are placed in the ears and plugged with a cotton ball. After a certain amount of time, the cotton is removed and the oil is allowed to drain from the ear. This method is believed to draw out the infection.

Heat

• Using heat can help relieve the pain of having an ear infection. Apply heat using either a heating pad or a warm washcloth. Do not use a heating pad on children who are too young to inform you if the pad is too hot.

Echinacea

• Echinacea is an antimicrobial herb used to treat colds and infections. Echinacea is also used as a booster for the immune system, which fights illnesses and infections. You can find this herb in both pill and tea form.

Over The Counter Medication

• Over-the-counter medication is used for managing the pain associated with an ear infection. There are a variety of medications that can be used for pain management. Medications such as Advil, Aleve, Tylenol and Motrin help control pain as well as the high fever that can be a symptom of an ear infection.

Astragalus

• Astragalus is a Chinese herb used to boost the immune system and fight infections. This herb can also be taken as a preventive measure against illnesses.