FDA: Ear Candles May Be Unsafe

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning patients and health professionals not to use ear candles because they may cause "serious injuries," even when used as directed.

Ear candling, also called thermo-auricular therapy or coning, is a home remedy used for outer-ear hygiene and for general well-being. During an ear-candling session, a wax-impregnated fabric tube is inserted into the outer ear. It is then ignited and burns for about 10 minutes. (Since the tube is hollow, wax and burnt fabric may enter the outer ear.)

Some proponents claim that ear candles address problems such as earaches, sinus infections, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), sinus pain and pressure and vertigo. Some ear candlers propose that the process removes ear wax during the ear-candling session. Others allege that the procedure warms and softens ear wax, thus aiding its subsequent elimination. Another benefit cited is that smoke and heat directed into the outer ear may dry up moisture that might otherwise increase the risk of infection.

However, the FDA cautions that supportive evidence of effectiveness is lacking. Additionally, the agency has received reports of burns, perforated eardrums and blocked ear canals after use. According to the FDA, these products may be especially unsafe in children because they may be more likely to move during the procedure, and they have smaller ear canals.

1. Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. www.naturalstandard.com
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).www.fda.gov