This is a FACT.
Winter is upon us, and tis the season for keeping the immune system strong and protected. We can look to a popular Ayurvedic prescription for wellness to help prevent and treat colds, sinus and ear infections, and allergies. Ear oil, particularly garlic ear oil, can help lower your risk for colds and reduce sinus congestion and pressure when used daily for prevention, or at the first sign of illness.
The Greatness of Garlic
Garlic is a potent natural medicine that has been used for thousands of years and praised for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Its antimicrobial powers are due to an antifungal and antibiotic compound called allicin, which has been shown to help cure numerous types of infection. According to acclaimed Ayurvedic practitioner Dr. John Douillard, an ear oil made with garlic can help boost the immune system and decrease your risk for seasonal colds.
How to Make Garlic Ear Oil
Ear oil is typically made from olive oil (although sesame oil is an acceptable stand-in, especially for those with wax buildup in the ears) and infused with herbs or essential oils. You can purchase ear oil from health food stores, or easily make your own with the recipe listed below.
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup of organic extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil or sesame oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A saucepan
- A small bottle and dropper
Directions:
- Bring 1/3 cup of oil and 2 whole peeled garlic cloves to a simmer in the saucepan.
- Let the oil and garlic simmer and bubble for about 5 minutes. Wait until the oil stops popping, and periodically press the garlic with a fork or spoon to help it release.
- Let your ear oil cool.
- Strain the ear oil, separating it from the garlic.
- Pour the strained ear oil into an eyedropper bottle.
Using Your Garlic Ear Oil
Run the eyedropper bottle under hot water to warm the oil. Tilt your head and saturate your ear canal with the oil (about a dropper full). It’s easiest to rest your head on a pillow (empty ear down) while the ear oil goes to work. After 5-10 minutes, drain your ear, and apply to the other ear.
Use garlic ear oil weekly or daily for prevention, and three to four times a day when feeling under the weather.
