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What is a Natural Antibiotic for an Ear Infection?

Ear infections are a common occurrence in children but can also erupt in adults. Although ear infections have been treated with prescription antibiotics in the past, many individuals are seeking natural cures because the majority of these infections are caused by a virus which is not cured by an antibiotic. An ear infection is healed by one's immune system but using natural antibiotics can help with discomfort and accelerate the healing process.

  1. Common Causes

    • Ear infections can be caused by a variety of elements and some are more prominent for children than adults. Dairy products often cause ear infections in children because most cannot digest dairy properly. Being outside during cold months without ear protection can just as easily cause an ear ailment in both children and adults. Swimming, whether in a body of water or pool, is another common cause of ear infections that will affect an individual without bias to age.

    Treating the Infected Ear

    • Before the infected ear is treated directly, make sure that the eardrum is in tact by visiting a family practitioner or other accredited medical figure for verification. The individual administering the treatment in the home should use a sterilized eye dropper to place a few drops of warmed mullein and garlic oil into the ear canal while the ailing individual tilts his or her head to allow the liquid to rest at the end of the ear canal. After a few minutes, the ear can be drained of the solution. This remedy will aid in soothing any irritation and begin to decrease inflammation.

    Boosting the Immune System

    • Natural herbs can be ingested to boost the infection fighting properties of the immune system. Naturopaths suggest goldenseal and echinacea for immune system enhancement, olive leaf to fight the infection and St. John's Wort to supplement the garlic and mullein solution for additional inflammation care. Consulting a homeopath or naturopath can help determine proper dosage.

    Natural Antibiotic Tablets

    • Tablets containing Sulphur 30C, Pulsatilla 30c, Calcarea Carbonica 30C, Chamomilla 30c, Belladonna 30C and Lycopodium 30C are also promising natural antibiotic regimens. These ingredients calm ear pain that is worse at night, restlessness due to irritability, pulsing pain within the ear, burning sensations, fever and congestion. The combination of these herbs is most effective when taken within the first 48 hours after the ear infection. Once improvement is apparent or suffering exceeds seven days, the user should stop taking this form of treatment.

    External Remedies

    • An ear infection will often be accompanied by congestion. A massage oil comprised of 20 drops of olive oil with two drops of tea tree oil can be applied behind the ear in a gentle stroking motion diagonally towards the collarbone. Adults using this method on children should be cautious about the amount of pressure inflicted. Increased pressure can result in temporary discomfort. At nighttime, ear infection sufferers should use a humidifier with a couple drops of eucalyptus oil for added congestion relief.

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