Ear Candling
Ear candling can be a very pleasant and soothing experience.
Earwax protects the ear, but it can become hardened or impacted, which may harbor infection or impair hearing. The warmth and smoke from ear candling may help soothe the ear and may assist softening earwax. Ear Candling is also an age-old "home remedy" used to soothe the ears and to help relieve pain and itching from infections and other conditions.
Ear candling involves the use of a hollow candle coated with wax. The candle is placed gently into the opening of the ear and lit. Warm smoke travels through the candle and soothes the ear. Following the procedure, the ear continues to excrete earwax, plus any extra wax. There should be no discomfort during the procedure or afterward.
The Center for Mind, Body & Spirit uses Wally's "Edge" Natural Candles during this procedure. Their candles are made to burn smoother and longer and are often referred to as "America's Favorite Brand."
Ear Candling, sometimes known as "ear coning" was used by the Egyptians, Essenes, Chinese, East Indians, and Tibetans over 3,000 years ago. Ancient cultures of North and South America and Lemuria have also been associated with the technique.
Originally the process was described as "coning" because cone-shaped instruments made from pottery clay were used. These glazed pottery cones had a double helix carved inside intended to create a downward spiral flow of smoke from burning herbs into the ear canal.
For centuries, people around the world practiced the art of candling as a form of spiritual healing, to clear the mind and senses. They claimed a person could meditate more deeply and open up their sensitivity. Typically the spiritual leader or shaman of the area would perform a ritual using reeds or clay pottery to heal or improve the person's spiritual condition. In the New World, the Aztec, Mayan, and Native North American cultures all had important rituals involving "ear cones".
The procedure began with those of high social rank, like great warriors, royalty and spiritual leaders, and was used during special initiation rites. Before long, ear candling as a cleansing procedure became common in many early cultures.
Ear Candling: Shelby Corson, LMT
Kristin Milonas, DC
Sage Kuhlman, RN, LMT