Julie Brockbank MFHT. MDMTA. MICHT

What is Ear Candling?

Ear Candling also known as Hopi Ear Candles or Thermal Auricular Therapy, is a pleasant and non-invasive treatment of the ears used to treat a variety of conditions.
The ear candles induce a revitalising heat upon the head and ears, which soothes, relieves and relaxes.

What is the history of Ear Candling?

Ear Candling is an ancient, natural therapy believed to have been handed down over millennia by many civilisations including the Egyptians, Romans and the Aztecs.
It is believed that the Ancient Greeks also used ear candles initially almost certainly for cleansing, purifying and healing rituals on a spiritual basis, but much later on a purely physical basis.
However, the practice reached the modern world via the Native American Hopi Indians of
North Arizona
(It’s interesting to note that Hopi means peaceful people).
Shaman healers used ear candles traditionally, and ancient wall paintings show their importance in initiation rituals’ and healing ceremonies within the tribe.
The candles are still made today on the basis of the old traditional formula originating from the Hopi Indians.

What are the Candles made from?

The candles are hollow tubes about 10 inches in length, Tapered at one end and made from natural ingredients.
The basic ingredients are beeswax, honey extracts, and organically grown flax, some candles also include sage, St Johns Wort, and chamomile.
A constant high quality in all the products is ensured, most of which are organically sourced.

How do Hopi Ear Candles work?

The candles work on a chimney principle,
the physical heat from the flame creates a stimulating, warming effect which creates a spiral vortex.
This vortex helps to remove excess mucus in the middle ear, inner ear, sinuses and nose. Lymphatic drainage is stimulated and pressure is equalised in the head, sinuses and ears.
While ear candles do not physically remove ear wax they do create conditions whereby the body’s own defences restore balance.
During a treatment secretion flow is gently stimulated and impurities or deposits of wax work their way up to the surface, typically for 24-48 hours after a treatment when they can be carefully removed from the outer ear area by the client.
Many people now prefer to use ear candles as a way of removing impacted ear wax rather than the more invasive syringing.

What are Hopi Ear Candles used for?

Though results may vary from person to person, clients have reported Ear Candles to be helpful with:

* Excessive or compacted wax in the ears
* Irritation in ears and sinuses
* Pressure regulation in cases of sinusitis / rhinitis / glue ear / colds / flu / headaches / migraine and especially after flying or swimming
* Stimulation of local and reflex energy flow
* Energetic revitalisation in cases of hearing impairment
* Relaxing and calming effect in cases of stress
* Noises in the ears, ringing, tinnitus

Are there any side affects?

Very few side affects are known,
but as a precaution it is advisable not to use
Ear Candles, thus avoiding a reaction if:

* If grommets are in place
* If there is inflammation or infection
* You have a known allergic reaction to any of the contents of ear candles i.e. St Johns Wort, bee’s wax, or honey
* If you have had a perforated ear drum in the last 12 months.

What does a  Ear Candling treatment involve?

Following a consultation and explanation of the treatment you will be asked to lie comfortably on your side on the treatment couch, a small towel will be used to cover your hair. The unlit candle is then placed gently into the auditory canal, and you will be asked if it feels comfortable in the ear. The candle is then lit at its furthest end, and
held in the ear in a  vertical position by the therapist. The therapist’s hands cover the ear keeping the candle steady in position whilst the client experiences a warm comfortable feeling.
As the candle burns down the residue ash (if it falls) will just turn to dust and is trapped inside the candle.
The time taken for the candle to burn down varies from person to person but it typically takes between 8 – 10 minutes.
Once the candle has burnt down to within 4 inches of the therapists hands it is removed
and extinguished, you will be asked to stay still for a few moments before being asked to turn over to repeat the process in the other ear.
When both ears have been treated you will be asked to lie comfortably on your back whist a short facial massage is carried out with some essential oils, followed by a short Reiki treatment allowing you to further relax and ultimately obtain maximum effect from your treatment.
Once your treatment is complete you will be offered some water, and asked to spend few minutes commenting on the treatment.

Are there any guidelines for attaining the best outcome from my treatment?

Prior to your initial treatment taking place
a detailed consultation will be carried out in order to establish your current state of health and suitability for the use of Ear Candles.

If you are planning to have a treatment please check with your doctor first if you have
a serious medical condition like Epilepsy or Diabetes.
Please do not put oil in the ears for at least 24 hours before a planned treatment, and do not arrange a treatment if your ears have had your ears syringed in the last week.

Please note –
It is not possible to carry out ear candling if you are suffering from a migraine on the day of your treatment,
please notify me if you are unable to attend your appointment for this reason.

You will feel very relaxed after your treatment and it advisable to arrange a time / day when you can relax, unwind and feel the full benefit of your treatment.