Garlic has antibacterial properties that some consider a safe and effective natural alternative to medicinal ear drops.
This article explains the pros and cons of using garlic or garlic oil for an ear infection or earache.
It discusses the potential health benefits of garlic and the possible side effects and risks.
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It also provides step-by-step instructions for making and storing garlic oil.
Home Remedies for Ear Infections
Some ear infections will go away on their own.
you might use home remedies to relieve the discomfort of the symptoms.
Some studies have found that garlic oil can be as effective as oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin.
However, a middle ear infection usually gets better on its own without treatment.
It is worth noting that this method is not to be used in place of medications.
It should only be used as a supplemental treatment.
Treatment
Treatment for earaches and ear infections varies by cause and severity of the condition.
Watchful Waiting
Ear aches and mild ear infections are treated with a wait-and-see approach.
American Academy of Family Physicians advises waiting two to three days for the immune system to dump the infection.
However, severe allergic reactions likeanaphylaxisare rare and are more commonly associated with raw garlic.
Talk to your healthcare provider before trying garlic oil for an earache.
This is especially true if you have a history of allergies.
Risk of Botulism
Despite its antimicrobial properties, bacteria likeClostridium botulinumcan thrive in garlic oil.C.
Many other drugs also rely on CYP3A4 for metabolization, creating competition for the available enzyme.
The hole in the eardrum can allow garlic oil to get through and cause issues in the middle ear.
Summary
Some research has shown garlic to be an effective remedy for earache and ear infections.
However, it can potentially cause dermatitis and irritation to your ear.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About botulism.
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