10 Home Remedies for Ear Infection

A common home remedy for earaches is a salt pack. Salt is inexpensive and easy to find in most homes.

Warm the salt in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, then place it in a cloth bag and secure it. Lie down and hold the warm bag against the affected ear for five to ten minutes. The heat can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

To help clear ear obstructions such as wax or minor buildup, some people use warmed olive or mustard oil as ear drops.

The oil should never be warmer than body temperature. Place two to three drops in the affected ear to help soften wax, making it easier to remove from the outer ear. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs.

Although there is limited scientific evidence, the American Academy of Pediatrics notes that this approach is unlikely to be harmful when used carefully. Do not use this method if you have ear tubes or a suspected eardrum tear.

Garlic has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve ear pain.

One common method is to heat chopped garlic in sesame or mustard oil, strain it, and apply a few drops once cooled. Another option is to crush cooked garlic and use it in a warm compress applied externally.

Avoid placing garlic or oil in the ear canal if you have a ruptured eardrum or ear tubes.

Basil may help ease mild ear pain when applied around the ear.

Fresh oil can be extracted from basil leaves, or essential oil can be diluted with a carrier such as coconut oil. Mix one drop of basil oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it around the ear — not inside it.

Animal studies suggest antibacterial effects, but there is no clear evidence in humans.

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties, though there is little evidence that it can treat ear infections directly.

A common approach is to mix equal parts vinegar and water, soak a cotton ball, and place it gently at the ear opening for about five minutes. After removing it, tilt the head to allow the liquid to drain.

Avoid placing the cotton ball deep into the ear canal.

Heat is one of the simplest ways to ease ear pain.

A warm (not hot) water bottle or compress placed against the ear can help reduce discomfort and swelling. Use for short intervals — about five minutes at a time — and make sure the temperature is comfortable.

Onions are a long-standing home remedy, and some people find that onion juice helps relieve ear pain.

Chop an onion, warm it briefly, then cool and strain the juice. Place a few drops in the ear, wait five to ten minutes, and tilt the head to let it drain.

There’s no strong scientific evidence behind this method, but it’s generally considered low risk if the eardrum is intact.

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but it can also irritate sensitive skin.

If used, it should always be diluted — for example, mixed with olive oil or warm water. A few drops can be placed in the ear, then allowed to drain out after a short time.

Because of the risk of irritation and limited evidence, it’s best to speak with a doctor before trying this method. Avoid use if you have ear tubes.

Radishes appear in some traditional remedies, often prepared as an infused oil.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support their use for treating ear infections or relieving ear pain.

Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used to clean minor wounds and can also help break down earwax.

To use it safely, dilute a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with water. Apply a few drops to the ear — you may hear bubbling as it works. After about ten minutes, tilt the head to let the liquid drain out.

Because leftover moisture can promote fungal growth, some specialists recommend drying the ear afterward. Use this method cautiously and avoid overuse.