This ancient and natural therapy has been practised both in Asia
as well as North and South America, but it was through the Hopi
Indians of North America (known for their extensive knowledge
of healing techniques) that the practise of ear candling reached
Europe, where it is widely used today.
Pleasant and relaxing
During your first treatment your medical history will be taken
and any relevant conditions discussed with the therapist. Following
this, an otoscope will be used to look at your ear canals and
eardrums. You will then lie on a comfortable massage couch and
a hollow candle will gently be inserted into one ear at a time
and burned. It takes approximately ten minutes for each ear, and
it is a very pleasant and soothing experience as warm air is channelled
into the ear. A slight crackling sound can be heard from the candle,
which enhances your relaxation.
Massage
After each candle, you will be massaged around the ear to stimulate
blood circulation and lymph drainage in the area. The treatment
will finish off with a soothing face and ear massage to further
aid relaxation and drainage of the sinuses.
Benefits
Hopi ear candle treatments are particularly beneficial for blocked
sinuses and ears, headaches and migraines, tinnitus (ringing in
the ears), glue ear, ear eczema and excess earwax. Often an improvement
occurs to the sense of taste and smell as well. An Initial course
of 3-4 treatments is recommended to allow the body time to heal
and settle back into its normal working order, though you may
well feel some change to the situation already after the first
treatment.
Contraindications
Treatments are not given to anyone who has recently (usually within
the last 3 months) had ear operations, grommets, acute ear infections
or had their eardrums perforated. Patients with epilepsy are advised
to consult their GP before treatment.
