Antiseptic essential oils such as lavender and tea tree can be diluted in olive oil and rubbed around the outside of-never in-the ear and over the lymph nodes on the side of the neck. If the ear problem is caused by a throat infection, be sure to also use an antiseptic gargle. Hot compresses soothe pain in the ears.

Always treat both ears, even if only one hurts, and continue treatment for several days after the pain is gone to make sure the condition does not return.

Aromatherapy Ear Rub

* 3 drops lavender
* 3 drops tea tree
* 6 drops Roman chamomile
* 1 ounce carrier oil

Rub around the ear and down the side of the neck. Apply one drop to a piece of cotton and place in the ear after application of the Herbal Ear Oil (below). For children use half this dilution (6 drops total of essential oil in 1 ounce carrier).

Garlic is antibacterial, eases the pain and inflammation of a simple ear infection, and is the remedy of choice for the fungal infection called “swimmer’s ear,” a condition that typically creates lots of itching.

Excepted from Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, (Crossing Press)