Last updated: Apr 12, 2024
10 best herbal teas for ear infection
Certain herbal teas have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ear infections.
Echinacea tea is a popular choice, as it boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation. Peppermint tea cools and soothes the ear, reducing discomfort and itching. Ginger tea has natural antibacterial properties that combat infection-causing bacteria, while chamomile tea calms and relaxes, reducing anxiety associated with ear infections.
These herbal teas, when consumed in conjunction with medical treatment, provide a holistic approach to healing and relief from ear infection symptoms.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile tea provides relief from ear infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The hot tea, when used as a compress, helps to alleviate pain by reducing inflammation in the Eustachian tubes and outer ear. Chamomile's antimicrobial properties combat bacterial and viral infections causing the discomfort. Moreover, its soothing effects promote relaxation, which aids in managing the stress and discomfort associated with ear infections.
As a natural remedy, chamomile tea serves as a gentle and accessible alternative to over-the-counter medications.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with ear infection.
- Flowers: Chamomile flowers contain chamazulene and bisabolol, compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate ear infection symptoms when consumed as a tea.
- Leaves: The leaves of chamomile plants have phenolic compounds, which exhibit antimicrobial effects, making them useful for treating ear infections when brewed into a medicinal tea.
- Seeds: Chamomile seeds are rich in flavonoids and essential oils that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, making them suitable for medicinal tea aimed at managing ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with ear infection.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infections in the ear.
- Chamazulene: This aromatic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage in the ear.
- Bisabolol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties, which can help reduce inflammation, fight infections, and alleviate pain in the ear.
- Matricin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infections in the ear.
- Alpha-bisabolol oxide A & B: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infections in the ear.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for ear infection.
- Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser or teapot.
- Pour the boiling water over the chamomile flowers and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the chamomile flowers.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature before using it as a warm compress for the affected ear.
2. Calendula
Calendula tea contains flavonoids and essential oils, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
These compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation in the ear canal. Moreover, calendula teas antioxidants promote healing by fighting off infected cells and reducing pain. As a result, calendula tea aids in alleviating ear infections, fostering a quicker recovery.
Lastly, consumed orally, calendula tea can boost the immune system, further assisting the body in combating ear infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in calendula tea that help with ear infection.
- Flowers: Calendula flowers contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate ear inflammation and fight infection.
- Leaves: The leaves of the calendula plant have antiseptic qualities that aid in treating ear infections by promoting wound healing and reducing pain.
- Buds: Calendula buds possess potent analgesic and antioxidant effects, making them an ideal addition to a medicinal tea to help soothe and heal ear infections.
- Stems: The stems of the calendula plant contain active compounds that can help relieve ear inflammation and reduce ear infection symptoms when used in a medicinal tea.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in calendula tea that aid with ear infection.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce ear inflammation caused by infection.
- Triterpenes: Some triterpenes found in calendula, like faradiol and calenduloside E, have been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help combat ear infection-causing pathogens.
- Saponins: These compounds have been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help fight against bacterial and fungal infections in the ear.
- Polysaccharides: Certain polysaccharides in calendula, such as mucilage, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of ear infections.
- Carotenoids: These antioxidants can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and promote healing in the ear.
- Volatile oils: Calendula contains volatile oils like limonene and α-pinene, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help treat ear infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic calendula tea for ear infection.
- Pick 1-2 tablespoons of fresh calendula flower petals.
- Rinse the petals under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Place the petals in a teapot and add 2 cups of boiling water.
- Let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
- Strain the tea and allow it to cool down before using it as a warm compress for the ear infection.
3. Echinacea
Echinacea tea contains powerful compounds, specifically echinacosides and polysaccharides, which exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
These components act on the body by reducing inflammation in the inner ear and strengthening the immune system to combat the infection. Moreover, echinacea tea has antimicrobial qualities that directly target the bacteria or virus causing the ear infection. By alleviating inflammation and bolstering the immune system, echinacea tea creates an environment in the body less conducive to ear infections.
Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Therapeutics and Research reported that echinacea extract effectively treats ear infections as efficiently as conventional medications.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with ear infection.
- Roots: Rich in beneficial compounds, echinacea roots produce a deeply infused tea that bolsters immune response to ear infections.
- Aerial Parts: Not included as they wilt quickly, reducing potency and medicinal benefits for ear infection relief.
- Leaves: Fresh echinacea leaves contain active substances that, when steeped, create a potent tea to alleviate ear infection symptoms.
- Florets: The inner petals of echinacea flowers contribute a high concentration of anti-inflammatory agents, making them ideal for soothing ear infections when brewed as a tea.
- Buds: Unopened echinacea flower buds are a valuable tea ingredient, providing a powerful blend that targets the root cause of ear infections.
- Rhizomes: Horizontal echinacea plant stem segments, or rhizomes, contain medically active substances that, when extracted in hot water, create a tea to fight ear infection-causing bacteria.
- Stems: While some medicinal benefits can be found in echinacea stems, other plant parts offer more potent and targeted relief for ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with ear infection.
- Essential oil: The essential oil in echinacea tea has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce ear inflammation and fight off bacterial or viral infections causing ear pain.
- Alkamides: Alkamides in echinacea have been shown to have immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help the body fight off infections and reduce ear inflammation.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in echinacea have immune-stimulating properties that can help the body fight off infections and boost overall immune function, which can help prevent and treat ear infections.
- Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid in echinacea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation, including in the ears.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in echinacea have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation, including in the ears.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for ear infection.
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers or 4 echinacea tea bags.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the tea cool down for a few minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the echinacea flowers or tea bags.
- Drink the tea while still warm, up to three times a day for relief from ear infection.
4. Goldenseal
Goldenseal tea contains berberine, a powerful alkaloid known for its antimicrobial properties.
This substance aids in fighting bacterial infections, making it helpful for addressing ear infections. Moreover, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce inflammation in the ear, providing relief from discomfort and pain. Its antioxidant properties support overall ear health and strengthen the immune system, promoting faster recovery.
Ultimately, goldenseal tea's unique combination of medicinal properties makes it an effective tool in treating ear infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in goldenseal tea that help with ear infection.
- Roots: Goldenseal roots contain berberine, a compound with potent antibacterial properties that can help treat ear infections.
- Rhizomes: The rhizomes of goldenseal plants have rich alkaloid content, making them effective in fighting microorganisms causing ear infections.
- Leaves: Goldenseal leaves possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate ear pain and reduce inflammation.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants, goldenseal flowers support the immune system, aiding in the body's defense against ear infections.
- Seeds: Goldenseal seeds contain essential oils with antimicrobial qualities, helping to eliminate the bacteria responsible for ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in goldenseal tea that aid with ear infection.
- Berberine: This alkaloid has antibacterial properties, which may help combat the bacteria responsible for ear infections.
- Hydrastine: A bitter alkaloid, hydrastine can help reduce inflammation and improve overall immune function, which is beneficial in managing ear infections.
- Canadine: This alkaloid has shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping alleviate pain and inflammation in ear infections.
- L-related tetrahydroprotoberberines: These compounds contribute to goldenseal's antimicrobial effects, aiding in the fight against ear infection-causing pathogens.
- Manganese: A vital mineral found in goldenseal, manganese supports immune function and helps protect against infections.
- Cinchonine: This alkaloid exhibits antimicrobial properties, aiding in the elimination of bacteria responsible for ear infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal tea for ear infection.
- In a sterilized pot, combine 1 cup of distilled water and 2 teaspoons of dried goldenseal root.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove goldenseal root pieces.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a safe temperature.
- Using a dropper, administer 2-3 drops of goldenseal tea into the affected ear, twice daily, for 3-5 days.
5. Lavender
Lavender tea derives its infection-fighting properties from its essential oil, which possesses antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities.
This infusion impedes the growth of bacteria and microbes responsible for ear infections. Moreover, lavender tea's anti-inflammatory agents alleviate inflammation and discomfort in the ears, providing relief to the individual.
The soothing qualities of this tea also assist in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, contributing to an overall feeling of well-being. Furthermore, lavender tea's antioxidants bolster the immune system, aiding the body in combating and preventing infections.
Ultimately, the combined properties of lavender tea address both the symptoms and root causes of ear infections, making it an effective natural remedy.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with ear infection.
- Flowers: Lavender flowers contain antimicrobial compounds that help fight infections causing ear discomfort.
- Leaves: Lavender leaves have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the ear.
- Buds: The buds are rich in soothing essential oils, which provide relief from ear inflammation and irritation.
- Seeds: Lavender seeds contain high levels of antioxidants, aiding in boosting the immune system and combatting ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with ear infection.
- Eucalyptol: This compound has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and decongestant properties, helping to reduce ear inflammation and ease discomfort in ear infections.
- Linalool: With its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, linalool can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the ear associated with ear infections.
- Camphor: Camphor has antimicrobial and analgesic properties, aiding in fighting off the infection-causing microorganisms and reducing ear pain.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for ear infection.
- In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the lavender in the water for 5-10 minutes to release the herb's oils and achieve a strong tea.
- Strain the lavender tea to remove the flowers, leaving only the liquid.
- Allow the lavender tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Sip the lavender tea slowly, aiming to consume 1-2 cups per day, to potentially alleviate ear infection symptoms.
6. Ginger
Ginger tea provides anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate pressure and discomfort in the ear due to its active compound, gingerol.
This compound also exhibits strong antibacterial characteristics, helping combat bacterial infections causing ear problems. Moreover, ginger tea's warming effect enhances blood circulation, facilitating the delivery of immune cells to the ear and bolstering the body's natural defense mechanisms. Additionally, ginger tea's ability to reduce inflammation aids in opening up blocked Eustachian tubes, which often contributes to ear infections.
Ultimately, ginger tea's antioxidant qualities help strengthen the immune system, increasing the body's capacity to fight off and prevent ear infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with ear infection.
- Rhizomes: Ginger rhizomes are rich in antioxidants and have antibacterial properties that help fight infections causing ear discomfort.
- Flowers: Ginger flowers contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, helping alleviate ear-related inflammation.
- Seeds: Ginger seeds are a natural source of shogaols, which possess analgesic properties that can help reduce ear pain.
- Leaves: Ginger leaves have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help protect the ear from infections and support overall ear health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with ear infection.
- Gingerols: Gingerols have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the ear caused by infection.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have antibacterial properties that can help fight against the bacteria causing ear infections.
- Paradols: Paradols have antioxidant properties that can help protect the ear from damage caused by the infection.
- Zingerone: Zingerone has analgesic properties that can help relieve pain associated with ear infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for ear infection.
- Peel and finely chop 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root (adjust based on taste preference).
- In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and chopped ginger, bringing it to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the ginger to release its healing properties.
- Strain the tea into a mug, discarding the ginger pieces, and add honey and lemon to taste (optional).
- Sip the warm ginger tea throughout the day, up to three times daily, to help alleviate ear infection symptoms.
7. Mullein
Mullein tea aids ear infections due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, derived from the mullein plant's leaves and flowers.
These properties, when consumed as a tea, help reduce inflammation in the inner ear, providing relief from discomfort and pain. The soothing effect of mullein tea on the ear canal reduces swelling, facilitating ear drainage. Furthermore, mullein tea contains compounds with antimicrobial qualities that combat bacteria causing ear infections.
As a result, mullein tea helps alleviate ear infection symptoms, promoting overall ear health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in mullein tea that help with ear infection.
- Flowers: Rich in soothing mucilage, mullein flowers help alleviate irritation in the ear canal.
- Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, mullein leaves help reduce inflammation associated with ear infections.
- Flowers' Calyces: The calyces cover the flowers, naturally containing antimicrobial compounds that fight infection-causing bacteria.
- Buds: High in antioxidants, mullein buds assist the body in eliminating infection-causing toxins from the ear.
- Seeds: Containing a potent mix of therapeutic compounds, mullein seeds provide relief from painful symptoms of ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in mullein tea that aid with ear infection.
- Mucilage: It forms a protective film over the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and soothing irritation in the ear.
- Saponins: They have antimicrobial properties, helping to fight infections causing earaches.
- Sitosterol: It has anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in reducing inflammation and pain in the ear.
- Tannins: They possess astringent properties, helping to dry out excess fluid in the ear and alleviating discomfort.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein tea for ear infection.
- Harvest or acquire one tablespoon of dried mullein leaves.
- Place the leaves in a tea infuser or loose in a teapot.
- Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the leaves and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea.
- Enjoy the warm tea, but do not drink more than two cups per day.
8. Garlic
Garlic tea aids ear infections due to its antimicrobial and analgesic properties.
Allicin, a compound in garlic, fights bacteria and viruses causing ear infections. Additionally, garlic's anti-inflammatory effects reduce swelling and pain in the ear canal. Garlic tea also enhances the immune system, helping the body combat and recover from ear infections.
Furthermore, this remedy is a natural and milder alternative to traditional treatments, reducing potential side effects.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in garlic tea that help with ear infection.
- Garlic Bulbs: The bulbs of garlic are rich in allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties that can help treat ear infections when steeped in tea.
- Garlic Cloves: Garlic cloves are the individual segments of the bulb, and they are used for medicinal teas because they contain the beneficial oils and compounds that can help alleviate ear infections.
- Garlic Stems: Although not as potent as the bulbs, garlic stems also contain allicin and can be used in tea infusions as an alternative to the bulbs, especially for those who are sensitive to the strong taste.
- Garlic Flowers: Garlic flowers are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them an ideal addition to medicinal teas for treating ear infections and associated symptoms.
- Garlic Seeds: Also known as garlic "bulbils," these tiny, immature bulbs are a potent source of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help treat and alleviate symptoms of ear infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in garlic tea that aid with ear infection.
- Allicin: Allicin has antibacterial and antifungal properties which can help to fight against the infection causing microorganisms in the ear.
- Ajoene: Ajoene has anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce swelling and pain in the ear.
- Diallyl disulfide: Diallyl disulfide has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral effects, which can help to combat ear infections.
- Diallyl trisulfide: Diallyl trisulfide has been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it helpful in treating ear infections.
- S-Allylcysteine: S-Allylcysteine has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the ear from damage caused by the infection.
- Allyl methyl disulfide: Allyl methyl disulfide has been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial in treating ear infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic tea for ear infection.
- Peel and mince 3 cloves of garlic, then let it sit for 10 minutes to activate allicin.
- In a small pot, boil 2 cups of water, then add the minced garlic.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the garlic tea into a cup, then add honey to taste.
- Sip the garlic tea while warm, aiming for a total consumption of 1 cup per day.
9. Yarrow
Yarrow tea provides relief from ear infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
This herbal tea, made from the Achillea millefolium plant, contains flavonoids and alkaloids that combat infection-causing bacteria. Furthermore, yarrow tea's ability to reduce inflammation soothes irritated ear tissues, while its antioxidants help strengthen the immune system to fight off infections. Additionally, yarrow tea promotes perspiration, which helps the body eliminate toxins and speeds up the healing process.
These properties make yarrow tea an effective remedy for treating ear infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in yarrow tea that help with ear infection.
- Flowers: Rich in azulene, the flowers of yarrow promote healing and reduce inflammation, making them an ideal addition to medicinal tea for ear infections.
- Leaves: High in flavonoids, yarrow leaves offer antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the effectiveness of medicinal tea for ear infections.
- Seeds: Containing essential oils, yarrow seeds enhance the medicinal tea's ability to alleviate pain and combat infection in ear ailments.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in yarrow tea that aid with ear infection.
- Flavonoids: These anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce inflammation and pain in the ear caused by infection.
- Alkaloids: With antibacterial properties, alkaloids in yarrow tea can help fight off bacterial ear infections.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of ear infections.
- Volatile oils: The antimicrobial properties of volatile oils in yarrow tea can aid in managing ear infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow tea for ear infection.
- Harvest dried yarrow flowers and leaves, or use 2 tablespoons of store-bought dried yarrow per 8 ounces of water.
- Steep the yarrow in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove plant material.
- Allow the tea to cool until it is warm but not hot.
- Use a dropper to apply the yarrow tea directly into the affected ear, or soak a compress in the tea and place it over the ear.
10. Olive
Olive tea contains antimicrobial compounds, such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, which combat bacteria causing ear infections.
These compounds disrupt the bacteria's membrane, leading to their destruction. Furthermore, olive tea boasts anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate inflammation in the ear, promoting faster healing. Its soothing warmth also helps unclog the Eustachian tubes, improving drainage and providing ear infection relief.
Drinking olive tea fortifies the immune system, making the body more resilient against future ear infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in olive tea that help with ear infection.
- Leaves: Olive leaves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate ear inflammation.
- Flowers: Olive flowers are rich in antimicrobial compounds that can aid in treating ear infections.
- Seeds: Olive seeds are a natural source of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents, which make them effective in treating ear infections.
- Bark: Olive bark has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help soothe ear discomfort and reduce inflammation.
- Buds: Olive buds are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, making them useful in treating ear infections and promoting ear health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in olive tea that aid with ear infection.
- Oleuropein: This compound has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce ear inflammation and fight bacterial infections causing earaches.
- Hydroxytyrosol: A potent antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and offers protection against infections, promoting ear health.
- Oleanolic acid: This triterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help treat ear infections and reduce inflammation in the ear canal and middle ear.
- Maslinic acid: Maslinic acid displays antiviral and antibacterial properties, aiding in preventing and managing ear infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
- Tyrosol: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, tyrosol supports overall ear health by reducing inflammation and fighting oxidative stress.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic olive tea for ear infection.
- In a pot, boil 2 cups of water for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of dried olive leaves to the boiling water, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off heat, mix in 1 teaspoon of honey, and let the tea cool to a warm temperature.
- Strain the tea to remove the olive leaves and honey.
- Sip the olive tea slowly, allowing it to reach the ears and alleviate any discomfort or infection.
What is ear infection and how can it affect your life?
An ear infection, medically known as otitis media or otitis externa, is a bacterial or viral inflammation of the inner or outer ear.
This condition often causes symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and difficulty balancing, leading to discomfort and impaired communication.
Prolonged or frequent ear infections can result in temporary or permanent hearing damage, negatively affecting individuals' cognitive development, learning, and overall quality of life.
What other natural remedies help with ear infection?
One of the most common and effective natural remedies for ear infections is warmth therapy.
Applying a warm compress to the affected ear promotes blood flow, helps soothe pain, and alleviates inflammation. Another popular natural solution is onion ear drops. Onions possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in fighting infection and reducing swelling.
To prepare onion ear drops, finely chop an onion and steep it in two tablespoons of olive oil for a few hours. Strain the mixture, and gently instill a few drops of the solution into the aching ear. Lastly, ear garlic oil, which is made by infusing crushed garlic cloves in olive oil, is another potent home remedy. Garlic's antimicrobial qualities combat infection-causing bacteria while the oil's warmth soothes discomfort.
Warm the garlic oil before using and place a few drops in the affected ear, allowing it to sit for several minutes for optimal benefits.