Ear Candling

Ear wax accumulation is one of the most common otologic conditions seen in primary care; removing ear wax is the most common ears, nose, and throat procedure carried out in the community. It is used mainly to remove ear wax, though it has also been used to try to relieve sinus pain, cure ear infections, help relieve tinnitus and vertigo, and even strengthen the brain.

Ear candling involves placing a hollow candle in the external auditory canal; a brown waxy substance, believed to be a mixture of ear wax, debris, and bacteria, is left in the candle stub. The heat produced from the candle helps to draw out excess earwax and debris that can be found in the ear canal. Ear candling is used to treat swimmer’s ear, ear infections/irritations, headaches, sinus pressure, and wax build-up.