Ear Infections

Middle ear infections are most common in childhood. They often follow a cold, when congestion prevents the middle ear from draining normally and causes fluids to stagnate, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. The resultant swelling exerts pressure on sensitive nerve endings, causing excruciating pain. If the infection does not begin to subside with home treatment within 24 hours, consult your doctor.

Prevent ear infections
Allergies, especially food allergies,
are often a factor in chronic middleear infections. Avoid common food allergens such as dairy products, wheat, corn, oranges, eggs, and peanut butter. Caution: Consult a dietitian before restricting a child's diet
Boost immunity with echinacea
Give echinacea extract to boost immune function. Children over six can be given half a teaspoon three times a day, while children under six should be given a quarter of a teaspoon three times a day.

Use garlic oil to fight infection
Garlic oil ear drops are excellent for fighting ear infections. Mince one large bulb of fresh garlic and place it in a heavy pot with enough olive oil to cover it by 25mm (I in). Cover the pot, and warm gently over low heat for one hour. Cool. strain the oil
through several layers of muslin, and refrigerate in a covered glass jar.To use the oil, warm a small amount in a metal spoon over a candle flame to a comfortable temperature (test the warmth of the oil on the back of your hand). Suction the oil in an ear dropper, place two drops into the ear canal, and plug with a cotton ball. Repeat the treatment every hour as needed, until symptoms subside. Caution: Do not use garlic oil to treat swimmer's ear (an inflammation of the external ear canal), or if you suspect a punctured eardrum.

Avoid pollutants
Airborne pollutants from cigarette smoke and wood-burning stoves are associated with a higher incidence of middle-ear infections. Avoid these irritants when possible.

Ease the earache
Wrap a warm hot-water bottle in a soft cloth and place it over the ear to help to ease the pain of earache. Make sure the water in the bottle is not too hot