10 Best Herbal Teas For Ear Infection

Herbal teas for ear infection are natural remedies that help alleviate ear infection symptoms by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and fighting bacterial infections.

Examples of herbal teas that help with ear infection include peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger teas, which have anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial effects.

These teas can improve lives by providing quick relief from ear pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities and sleep better at night, ultimately promoting overall well-being and quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for ear infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with ear infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The active compounds in Calendula, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and fight off bacterial and fungal infections in the ear. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to soothe earaches and promote healing, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to treating ear infections.

Its effectiveness is attributed to its ability to combat infection and promote a healthy ear environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with ear infection.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in the ear canal, creating a favorable environment for healing.
• Phenolic acids: They exhibit antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause ear infections, thus promoting a sterile environment for the ear canal to recover.
• Saponins: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the ear, making it more comfortable for the individual.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for ear infection.

• Flowers: Used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: Used to make teas for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Seeds: Used to make teas due to their antibacterial properties that can help combat ear infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for ear infection.

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers during the morning or late afternoon when they are completely dry.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 1 to 3 weeks.
3. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea immediately through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers.
5. Drink the tea hot or chilled within 24 hours of preparation to reap its benefits.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with ear infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

It contains compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, which are often responsible for ear infections. Additionally, Echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce swelling and pain associated with ear infections, promoting a faster recovery and relief from discomfort.

Its natural properties make it a popular herbal remedy for ear infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with ear infection.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside and cynarin, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce swelling and fight infections in the ear, ultimately alleviating ear infection symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid found in Echinacea purpurea, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation in the ear, while also protecting the ear from oxidative damage.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides, such as cis-calamene and trans-calamene, are non-specific immunostimulants that may help boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of ear infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for ear infection.

• Roots: The roots are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infection and reduce pain.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, which helps to fight off infection.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their antiseptic properties, which help to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that cause ear infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for ear infection.

1. Harvest 2-4 cups of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves when in bloom for optimal potency.
2. Chop the flowers and leaves into small pieces to release their medicinal properties quickly.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped echinacea with 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes steeping time.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids and enjoy as is.
5. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best flavor and potency.

3. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, teas helps with ear infection because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's main compound, methyl salicylate, is similar to aspirin and provides relief from pain and swelling. It is also rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. By reducing inflammation and pain, Gaultheria procumbens tea can provide quick relief from ear infections, allowing the body to focus on healing and recovery.

Its natural properties make it an effective and soothing remedy.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens teas that help with ear infection.

• Gaultherin: Gaultherin, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial and fungal infections that cause ear infections.
• Asperuloside: Asperuloside, a iridoid glycoside, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the ear, providing relief from ear infection symptoms.
• Gaultherin glycosides: Gaultherin glycosides, a class of sesquiterpene glycosides, have been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate ear infection symptoms and support the body's natural healing processes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: Gaultheria procumbens leaves are used to make teas because of their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and clear infections in the ear.
• Roots: The roots of Gaultheria procumbens are used for their antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and fight off infections in the ear.
• Stems: Gaultheria procumbens stems are used to make teas because they contain compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate ear infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for ear infection.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in late spring to early summer.
2. Dry the harvested leaves and stems in a warm place with good air circulation for 7-10 days.
3. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems for every 8 ounces of water.
4. Steep the measured dried gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to serve the herbal tea hot or chilled immediately.

4. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with ear infection because of its antimicrobial properties that combat the underlying bacterial or viral causes of the infection.

The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds soothe the affected area, reducing swelling and pain. Additionally, its antiviral properties help to inhibit the replication of viruses that cause ear infections.

By promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the ear canal, Melissa officinalis tea can aid in the recovery from ear infections and prevent future occurrences.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with ear infection.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antimicrobial properties, which helps combat the bacteria that cause ear infections by inhibiting their growth.
• Linalool: A terpene with anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces swelling and pain in the ear caused by infection.
• Melissic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which helps protect the ear from oxidative stress and reduces the risk of infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis contain bioactive compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate ear infection symptoms.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers have been traditionally used to treat ear infections due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and discomfort.
• Leaves (again): The leaves of Melissa officinalis are also used to make teas that have been traditionally used to treat ear infections, with their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties helping to combat infection and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for ear infection.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in early morning when they are at their highest oil content levels.
2. Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours or in a dehydrator.
3. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried melissa officinalis leaves for every 8 oz of boiling water.
4. Steep the leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse fully.
5. Strain the tea and drink immediately while the flavors are at their most potent and aromatic.

5. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, teas helps with ear infection because of its antimicrobial properties.

The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that exhibits antifungal and antibacterial activity, which effectively combats the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause ear infections. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with ear infections, making it a natural and effective remedy to soothe and heal ear infections.

Its natural properties also help to promote ear health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with ear infection.

• Hyperforin: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacterial and fungal infections causing ear infections, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Naphthodianthrones: These phenolic compounds exhibit antiviral and antimicrobial activities that help fight off viral and bacterial infections in the ear, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the ear, promoting a faster recovery from ear infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and other compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe ear infections.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids and anthraquinones that have been traditionally used to treat infections and reduce inflammation in the ear.
• Stems: Contain phenolic acids and other compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects to help alleviate ear infection symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for ear infection.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves for every 8 ounces of water needed.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a pot until it reaches a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
3. Steep the hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids immediately.
5. Store the tea in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours to preserve its medicinal properties.

6. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with ear infection because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that commonly cause ear infections. Additionally, yarrow's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and pain in the affected ear, promoting a faster recovery and alleviating discomfort.

Its natural properties make it an effective and non-invasive treatment option for ear infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with ear infection.

• Coumarins: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help combat the bacterial or fungal infections causing ear infections, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Flavonoids: As flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, they help soothe and reduce inflammation in the affected ear, promoting faster healing and alleviating pain.
• Essential oil components: Borneol and camphor have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help relieve ear pain, reduce swelling, and combat infection-causing microorganisms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Achillea millefolium for tea due to their high concentration of essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Flowers of Achillea millefolium are used in tea due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help to combat ear infections.
• Roots: Roots of Achillea millefolium are used in tea for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in ear infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for ear infection.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried achillea millefolium flowers and leaves for a single serving.
2. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers and leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the plant material.
4. Discard the solids and add honey or lemon to taste if desired for a sweeter flavor.
5. Allow the tea to cool and drink immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

7. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with ear infection because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease pain in the ear.

The mucilage present in Ulmus rubra soothes the inflamed tissues and promotes a healthy environment for the ear to heal. The antimicrobial properties of the tea help combat the underlying infection, allowing the ear to recover faster.

Additionally, the tea's soothing effects calm the nervous system, reducing discomfort and promoting a restful sleep.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with ear infection.

• Triterpenes: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with ear infections.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, which can help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the ear, as well as reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Mucilages: The mucilages present in Ulmus rubra tea can help soothe and protect the delicate tissues in the ear, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for ear infection.

• Roots: Ulmus rubra's roots are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with ear infections.
• Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are used to make teas because of their antibacterial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections in the ear.
• Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra are used to make teas due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate the root cause of ear infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for ear infection.

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried ulmus rubra bark by cutting branches in late summer or early fall.
2. Dry the harvested bark in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2-3 hours.
3. Grind 1 teaspoon of dried ulmus rubra bark into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground bark in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to create a refreshing herbal tea drink.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with ear infection because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and phenolic acids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections in the ear. By promoting drainage and reducing swelling, dandelion tea can help alleviate ear pain and discomfort associated with ear infections.

Additionally, its immunomodulatory effects may help boost the body's natural defenses against infection, supporting the healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with ear infection.

• Luteolin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the ear, which can help alleviate symptoms of ear infections.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpene has antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause ear infections, helping to prevent the spread of infection.
• Kaempferol: This flavonoid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce the severity of ear infection symptoms and promote healing of the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate ear infection symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain saponins, which have been traditionally used to treat ear infections by reducing inflammation and fighting bacteria.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the ear.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for ear infection.

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers from a clean area 10 minutes before preparation.
2. Rinse the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the taraxacum officinale tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
5. Serve the taraxacum officinale tea warm or chilled depending on personal preference immediately.

9. Symphytum officinale

Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, teas helps with ear infection because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and ease pain.

The tea's mucilaginous properties create a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, soothing the affected area and drawing out infection. Comfrey's antiseptic properties also help combat bacterial and viral infections, promoting a faster recovery.

Additionally, the tea's expectorant properties aid in clearing out mucus, allowing the ear to drain and heal more efficiently.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale teas that help with ear infection.

• Allantoin: It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with ear infections.
• Saponins: They have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that cause ear infections by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Flavonoids: They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the ear, promoting healing and recovery from ear infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and heal ear infections.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain compounds that reduce inflammation and pain, making them effective in treating ear infections.
• Buds: The buds are used due to their high concentration of mucilages, which help protect the ear canal and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for ear infection.

1. Harvest fresh symphytum officinale leaves and flowers at dawn or late afternoon when they are at their highest potency levels.
2. Dry the harvested symphytum officinale leaves and flowers in a warm and dry environment with low humidity levels.
3. Measure out one teaspoon of dried symphytum officinale per 8 ounces of boiling water for the tea.
4. Steep the dried symphytum officinale in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately to reap the full benefits of the herbal remedy.

10. Euphorbia cyparissias

Euphorbia cyparissias, also known as cypress spurge, teas helps with ear infection because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant contains compounds that exhibit broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, effectively reducing the infection and alleviating symptoms such as pain and discomfort. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and promote the healing of the ear canal, providing relief from ear infections.

Its effectiveness in treating ear infections makes it a valuable natural remedy.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphorbia cyparissias teas that help with ear infection.

• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacterial and fungal growth, as well as inflammation in the ear canal, thereby alleviating ear infection symptoms.
• Terpenoids: These compounds possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help combat the underlying infection causing ear pain, fever, and discharge.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacterial and fungal growth, as well as inflammation in the ear canal, thereby alleviating ear infection symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cypress spurge used to make teas for ear infection.

• Leaves: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and alleviate ear infection symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Euphorbia cyparissias are often used to create a decoction that can help soothe ear infections due to their antibacterial properties.
• Roots: Roots of the plant are traditionally used to make teas that help combat ear infections by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cypress spurge for ear infection.

1. Harvest euphorbia cyparissias leaves and stems when the plant is in full bloom to ensure maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm area for 1 to 2 weeks to remove excess moisture.
3. Crush 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried euphorbia cyparissias into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release the active ingredients.
5. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining plant particles.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for ear infection?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with ear infection is a blend of Echinacea, Peppermint, and Ginger.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties to fight off the infection, while Peppermint helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Ginger adds its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe the ear and reduce discomfort. By combining these three teas, you can create a powerful concoction to alleviate ear infection symptoms and promote a speedy recovery.

This blend promotes healing and reduces inflammation.

What ailments similar to ear infection are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to ear infection that are treated with herbal teas are sinus infections, tonsillitis, and sore throats.

Ginger tea, for instance, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and relieve pain in the sinuses, throat, and ears. Echinacea tea is also known to boost the immune system and fight off infections, while peppermint tea's antibacterial properties can soothe a sore throat and ease congestion.

These teas can be used as complementary remedies alongside conventional treatment for ear infections.