Sources for Treating Ear Wax

Ear wax is a sticky, fatty secretion produced by the glands in the outer ear to protect the eardrum by trapping dust and small objects. Normal soft wax is disposed of naturally by the ear, but hard or dried wax accumulates. An excess of ear wax obstructs the ear canal, and the blockage may be worsened by swimming or bathing since the wax absorbs water.

Symptoms
• a sensation of fullness or aching in the ear
• partial hearing loss caused by inflammation in the ear canal

TREATMENT 

Chinese Herbalism
Drop a little warmed almond oil into the ear to soften the wax, making it easier to remove.

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies
A little warmed garlic oil, dropped into the ear, will soften the wax and occasionally dislodge it.Use an ear candle (available from health stores) to heat and draw out excess wax.

Herbalism
Make a warm infusion of chamomile, elderf lowers, or marigold, or put a few drops of the tincture into some warm water. Using a dropper, place the liquid in the ear canal and stop with a cotton ball. Repeat several nights running until the wax has softened and is absorbed by the cotton.

Aromatherapy 
Put a few drops of warm chamomile oil, blended in a light carrier oil, into the ear canal and block gently with a cotton ball. Repeat until wax has softened.

Homeopathy 
Causticum, when there is a build-up of wax with some related loss of hearing. 

CAUTION
Constant prodding or cleaning of the ear can lead to excessive ear wax production.