Hopi Ear Candling
This is an ancient and natural therapy handed down by many civilisations. It is believed that the Ancient Greeks used ear candles, initially probably for cleansing, purifying and healing on a spiritual basis. The Hopi Indians of North Arizona brought the practice of candling to the modern world (N.B. Hopi means peaceful people).
How do they work?
The candles are made from the natural ingredients of beeswax, honey extracts, sage, St. Johns Wort, Chamomile, beta-carotene and organically grown flax. The healing properties of the Hopi ear candles have their foundation in two primary physical actions. Firstly, the slight under pressure (the “chimney” effect) inside the ear candle and the vibration of the rising air column serve to gently massage the ear drum and promote secretion in the ear/head area. Secondly, the locally applied warmth stimulates vascularization, invigorates the immune system and reinforces the flow of lymph. At the same time, important acupuncture points and reflex zones are stimulated.
Secretion flow is gently stimulated and the vapour collects and removes impurities or deposits. Most of these are carried away through the candle “chimney,” although some of them can be found in the condensed candle wax residue after removal from the ear, or could even work their way up to the surface 24-48 hours after.
Indications for Hopi Ear Candling: -
- Excellent for treatment of nose and throat congestion, sinusitis, headaches, T.M.J. (jaw joint) pain, tinnitus and otitis externa (inflammation of external ear).
- This is a very relaxing treatment and ideal for reducing stress or anxiety.
- Candling helps to soften wax for easy removal.
Hopi candles have been found to help with:
- Excessive or compacted wax in the ears – it has the ability to somehow very gently extract wax from the ear.
- Irritations in the ear or sinus problems.
- Helps regulation of pressure in cases of headache, migraine, sinusitis or rhinitis, glue ear, colds, influenza.
- Noises in the ears, ringing, tinnitus.
- Energetic revitalization in cases of hearing impairment.
- Local activation of the lymphatic and the metabolic process.
- Relaxing and calming effect in cases of stress.
- Can be a pre-flight treatment.
- For some it can replace having ears syringed.
Remember if in doubt always contact your G.P.
Are there any detrimental effects?
No contraindications are known to date but as a precaution, it is advisable not to use Hopi candles:
- If grommets are in place.
- In the event of an allergic reaction to the contents.
- If there is inflammation or infection consult with G.P. and /or practitioner.
How it is done!
Relaxation – This is a very pleasant therapy lasting approximately30- 40 minutes. You will be asked to lie on your side on the therapy couch or place your head to one side on a pillow. The unlit end of the candle is gently placed in the auditory canal of your ear. The candle is held in an upright position. As the candle burns it is like listening to a log fire very gently cracking in your ear and every bit as relaxing (warm and comforting). Most find it very relaxing and some may even fall asleep!!!