| Ear Candling
This treatment was formerly known as Hopi Ear Therapy but is now called Thermo or Thermal Auricular Therapy and Thermotherapy. Ear candling is a relaxing, treatment which claims to have a variety of health benefits. The candles are hollow tubes made from unbleached cotton or linen and hardened with beeswax. They are infused with honey and various herbs such as sage, chamomile or St John's Wort, and / or essential oils. Ear candling is ancient practice that has been used for centuries in many cultures throughout the world. Historical records show that oils and wax removing sticks have been used along with smoke being blown into a person's ear. This treatment is suitable for most adults and can be used on older children once their suitability to lie still for the duration of the treatment has been assessed by the therapist. Because there are certain conditions such as a perforated eardrum where ear candling should be avoided I will examine the ear using my ottoscope before I commence any treatment. This will be part of your consultation. An ear candling lasts for about 45 – 60 minutes. You will lie on your side or stomach which ever is most comfortable and I will gently insert the candle into the opening of the ear. Once the candle has finished burning I will remove any excess debris from the candle and perform a gentle lymphatic drainage massage. I then repeat the candling process, removal of debris and lymphatic drainage massage before performing a massage of the upper back, neck and scalp. During the treatment you may experience gentle heat around the ear and a feeling of pressure being released in the ears and sinuses. You may also hear gentle popping and crackling as the ingredients are burning. It is advisable to avoid water sports and swimming for 24 hours after treatment. Keep your ears warm as they may feel slightly sensitive to cold weather for a few hours after treatment. The reported benefits of ear candling may include
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