Ear Wax Removal Home Remedies

Ear wax removal home remedies can prove to be just as effective for clearing out your ear as over-the-counter remedies. The trick is making sure that you are following safe practices that will prevent ear canal blockage without harming your ear in the process.

Ear wax is the body's natural way of protecting the ear from bacteria, infections and foreign items so having ear wax is good; having too much can cause blockage of the ear canal and temporary hearing loss.

Home Remedies

• Using a syringe or dropper, apply several drops of warm hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, baby oil or glycerin into the ear. Allow the liquid to rest in the ear for three minutes, then tilt your head so the liquid drains from the ear. Flush the ear with warm water, drain and dry.
• Massage around and under the ear, then open and close your mouth while pulling on the ear. Follow this procedure by applying several drops of hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil, then allow the liquid to rest in the ear for several minutes. Drain the liquid from your ear, then dry the outer ear area.
• Apply several drops of warm olive oil to the ear area 3 times a day for 15 minutes per session. Repeat the procedure for two to three days then follow up with a gentle warm water flush using a syringe.
• Place a hot water bottle filled with warm water against the affected ear for several minutes to soften hardened wax.
• To dry the ear canal after flushing with warm water, apply alcohol to a cotton ball and swab the inside of the canal.

Caution
In normal conditions, ear wax takes care of itself. The exception to this is when excess wax is being produced and causing a buildup. Using a swab or thin cloth to clean the ear canal of normal wax buildup is acceptable; do not insert a pointed or sharp object into the ear to remove wax, whether normal or hardened, as damage to the eardrum is possible. If the ear has been previously damaged, consult a doctor before applying any liquids to the canal.

Consult a health care provided before you attempt to remove hardened ear wax. You should also consult an expert if the ear is infected or causing pain. The physician has the proper instruments for removing wax and can determine what procedure and medication is safe to use for severe buildups.