In the quest for natural health remedies, many people across Canada and beyond have turned to an ancient practice known as ear candling. This method, which involves placing a lit, hollow candle into the ear canal, is believed by some to help with various ear-related issues. However, despite its popularity in certain circles, ear candling poses significant risks that are important to understand.

What is Ear Candling?

Ear candling, also known as ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy, involves inserting a cone-shaped, hollow candle into the ear canal and lighting the exposed end. The belief is that the heat from the flame creates a vacuum that draws out earwax and impurities from the ear. This practice has been advertised as a treatment for earwax buildup, sinus infections, and hearing loss.

The Risks and Lack of Scientific Support

Despite its purported benefits, there is a notable lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of ear candling. In fact, the practice is not only ineffective but can also be dangerous.

According to Health Canada, ear candling can cause serious injuries, including burns, ear canal blockages, and even perforations in the eardrum (Health Canada). The hot wax from the candle can drip into the ear, causing burns or plugging the ear canal. The supposed earwax that is seen after the procedure is often residue from the burnt candle itself, not from the ear.

A study published in the "Journal of Laryngology & Otology" further supports these findings. The research concluded that ear candling does not produce a vacuum and found no evidence of removed earwax. Instead, it showed that candle wax was sometimes deposited in the ear.

Cases of Injuries

The dangers of ear candling are not just theoretical. There have been documented cases of injuries resulting from this practice. For instance, a report in Canada described a 33-year-old woman who experienced ear pain and hearing loss after ear candling. She was found to have candle wax in her ear canal.



Professional Medical Advice

Given the risks associated with ear candling and the lack of scientific backing, it is strongly advised to seek professional advice for ear-related concerns (give us a call 😊). Earwax buildup and other ear issues can be safely addressed by our healthcare professionals here at Frequency using proven, safe methods.