Thermal Auricular Therapy [also known as Hopi Ear Candles] is a pleasant and non-invasive treatment of the ears, used to treat a variety of conditions.
Ear candles are an ancient, mild and natural therapy and have been used by the Native American Indian for many years. It is not a candle as such, but a hollow tube made out of cotton flax. To stiffen the flax, it is infused with extract of honey and herb oils.
Remaining fully dressed, the client lies down on their side, with their head supported on a pillow so the auditory canal is vertical. The candle is then lit and the non-burning end is placed gently into the outer ear passage. As it slowly burns it produces a gentle local heat, the warm air combined with the oil and herbs soften the wax and draw it into the base of the candle.
This is known as the chimney principle, and works by drawing impurities gently to the surface, where they can be removed. The candle then generates a pleasant crackling sound and a warm, comfortable feeling while it draws out the impurities from the ear. Whilst the candle is burning, the surrounding area is massaged, creating a thoroughly relaxing and holistic experience.
It is a very gentle and relaxing process and may take between twenty and forty minutes, depending on the condition being treated.
Conditions that can be helped through the use of Hopi ear candles include treating balance and inner ear problems, build up of wax, ringing in the ears, tinnitus, hearing difficulties and sinus problems as well as colds, flu, sore throats, stress, headaches and migraines. The treatment is a good alternative for people who have found syringing uncomfortable.