Ear candling

Ear candling sometimes known as Thermo-Auricular Therapy comes to us from the Hopi tribe, although the use of ear candles to treat ear problems has been known for centuries, having been used by the Egyptians, Romans and Greeks.

Ear candles are not candles as we know them, but rather a hollow tube made out of cotton flax. To stiffen the flax, they are impregnated with extract of honey and essential oils, usually chamomile, sage and St Johns wort.

The treatment is very gentle, relaxing and non-invasive. A candle is placed in the ear and lit. As it burns it produces a gentle heat, and a comforting sound. It takes between 10 and 15 minutes per ear. This is then followed by a relaxing facial massage, with particular emphasis on acupressure points relating to the sinuses, and also the jaw and TM joints where tension can build up.

Ear candles can help ease the symptoms of sinusitis, rhinitis, earache and irritation of the ears including tinnitus. Candling can also help with headaches, migraine, and even snoring. It is also useful before flying as it can reduce the discomfort associated with cabin pressure. It is also wonderfully relaxing, and highly recommended as a method of relieving facial tension associated with stress.