Ear candling – or thermo-auricular therapy as it is also known – refers to an ancient, non-invasive complementary therapy designed to help treat conditions associated with the ear, nose and throat.

It is a technique that involves placing a hollow, cone-shaped tube (or ‘candle’) made of cotton, soaked in beeswax, honey and herbs into the ear canal in order to stimulate the ear and facilitate the removal of excess wax and impurities.

Ear candle treatment varies according to the shape and size of the candles, as well as the ingredients impregnated into the lining, but all are considered to have the same benefits – particularly for conditions such as sinus problems, compacted ear wax, tinnitus and headaches. Ear candling can also be used to promote deep relaxation and is thought to have therapeutic benefits which can help to relieve stress and revitalise the body.

How do ear candles work?

Ear candle treatment begins with long, hollow ‘candles’ which are manufactured using organic cotton and a selection of natural ingredients such as honey extracts, crushed herbs, and beeswax which are impregnated into the lining.

The candle is gently placed about a quarter-inch into ear and lit, allowing the flame to pass down the candle’s hollow centre deeper into the ear canal. The warm air eventually comes into contact with colder air and a vacuum effect is created – drawing out any wax, candida, yeast and other debris that may be lodged in the ear canal. The movement and compression between the ear canal and the candle chamber generate air flow that functions like a chimney. This ‘chimney effect’ is what stimulates the sucking action.

The removal of excess wax and impurities helps to clear the inner ear and sinuses, regulates ear pressure and brings about a lighter sensation in the head and ears. Ear candling is also thought to induce deep relaxation, which is enhanced via the infusion of herbs and essential oils into the candle itself. This turns to vapour when the candle is lit which is then drawn into the ear canal where it creates a soothing, massaging effect that protects and softens any irritated areas in the ear. 

What are ear candles used for?

Ear candling is primarily used to treat irritations and pressure in the ear, helping to relieve the discomfort of conditions such as the build-up of earwax, sinus congestion, sore throats, glue ear, rhinitis and tinnitus. It provides a pleasant and safe alternative for people who find traditional medical treatments such as syringing uncomfortable and/or ineffective, and is ideal for people of all ages – including young children and elderly people.

Because there are so many intricate crevices in the inner ear, it is easy for debris and impurities to build-up and cause problems that can interfere with hearing and cause discomfort. Regular removal of yeasts, allergies or compacted wax through ear candle treatment can help to restore hearing, relieve tension and pressure in the ear, while cleansing the sinus cavities of bacteria that thrive in the dark moist conditions of the inner ear.

What happens during a session?

When carried out professionally, an ear candling session can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for the client. At the start of the session you will have a full consultation, in which your therapist will discuss your medical history and current symptoms to help assess if ear candling is the right treatment for you and what your expectations are.

You will then be placed in a comfortable position on your side on a massage couch before the therapist gently places a specialised candle into your ear. This will be lit and held firmly in place while it burns for an average of 10 minutes.

You are likely to experience a crackling sound as the candle burns, and feel a warm and gentle massaging sensation in the ear. When the candle has burned completely, it will be removed from your ear and extinguished. This process is then repeated for the other ear.

Once both ears have been treated, your therapist will massage the area around the ears and face to encourage lymphatic drainage and enhance the effects of the candling. You can also request to see the inside of the burnt out candle to reveal the condition of your ears. A lot of people report an immediate relief of pressure after the treatment

A session will usually cost around £20 – £30 and will last for approximately 30 minutes to an hour. Some people may experience relief straight after the first session but more may be needed depending on your age, the nature of your ailment and how long you have had it for. Generally, the older you are and the longer you have had the condition, the more ear candle treatment sessions you will need to see a noticeable improvement. There is also the question of how complex the condition is, as some are easier to treat than others.