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.