Hopi Ear Candling
What is Hopi Ear Candling?
Hopi Ear Candling is a relaxing treatment that involves burning a specially designed "candle" and allowing the vapour from the candle to be gently drawn into the ear.
How does it work?
The "candle" is in fact a hollow tube made out of linen which has been infused with herbs and stiffened by soaking in beeswax. As the candle burns the heat from the flame warms the air rising up the hollow centre, this creates a mild suction which can help to loosen compacted ear wax. The herbs, beeswax and other ingredients are vapourised and because they are heavier than air, spiral downwards into the ear canal causing gentle pressure and sound waves that massage the ear drum. Even the slightest movement of the drum is transmitted into the middle and inner ear ensuring that all of the structures of the ear receive a gentle massage. This will help to regulate and balance pressure in the whole of the upper respiratory tract.
Where did it come from?
There is evidence that ear candling was practised by many ancient civilisations including the Aztecs, Greeks, Romans, Egyptians and Aborigines. It was a procedure used for cleansing the ear itself but also as a spiritual purification before initiation rites and rituals. Evidence of ear candling using rolled up leaves and paper can be found in Europe and Asia. The Hopi Indians, natives of North America, have kept the tradition of ear candling alive to this day and it is their recipe that was researched and manufactured by Biosun, a German company.
What are the benefits of Hopi Ear Candling
Ear candling does not claim to cure any disorder, however, its beauty is its ability to offer patients a feeling of total relaxation. It is understood that when the body is able to completely relax many positive health benefits occur. The nervous system is stimulated and heart and respiration rates are lowered, also the digestive system is able to work more efficiently. These changes encourage the body to produce "happy" hormones which act as an antidote to the harmful chemicals produced when the body is stressed.
The following conditions have responded positively to Hopi Ear Candling;
- Bell's Palsy
- Candida
- Colds
- Earaches
- Excessive ear wax
- Glue ear
- Hay Fever/Allergic rhinitis
- Headaches
- Hearing difficulties
- Labyrinths
- Menier's disease
- Migraines
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Patulous Eustachian tube
- Pressure changes
- Sinus problems
- Snoring
- Sore throat
- Stress
- Swimmers Ear
- Temporomandibular joint syndrome
- Tinnitus
What happens when receiving a treatment?
The practitioner will complete a medical history form and check for contra-indications. The patient will then be asked to remove their shoes and lie on a couch on their side, made comfortable with blankets and pillows. The candle will then be placed in the upper-most ear, un-lit, to check the fit and the patients position on the couch, any necessary adjustments will then be made. When both patient and practitioner are comfortable the candle is lit and replaced in the ear, ensuring a good seal is made between the candle and ear. The practitioner will use either a small cloth or use their hands to cover the side of the patients face. The candle will then be allowed to burn down until the flame reaches a red safety line that is marked on the candle when it will be removed from the ear and extinguished. The patient will then be asked to roll over onto their other side and the procedure repeated.
They will then be asked to lie on their back and a lymphatic drainage massage will be given, working on the face, ears, scalp, neck and shoulders. Acupressure and meridian points are also incorporated into the sequence increasing the effectiveness of the treatment.
Who can receive this therapy?
Hopi Ear Candling is safe for all ages, for small children ear cones are used. They work in the same way as the candles but are cone shaped, with a smaller end for easier insertion and a faster burn time.
How often should I have my ears candled?
The treatment can continue to work for up to 48 hours, eg pressure balancing and removal of earwax so it is recommended to have treatments at least two days apart. The frequency of treatments will be discussed with the patient taking into account the following;
- the purpose of the treatment, stress relief, a cold, hay fever, excessive ear wax etc.
- severity of the condition
- results of previous treatments, ie immediate effects and those over following days.
- analysis of residue inside the burnt candle.
- burn time of the candle
How much does it cost?
Treatments last 1 hour and cost £25
Appoinements cancelled or not attended will incur a fee at the discretion of the practitioner.
For more information about the technique or to book an appointment call 01376 571536 or click here to email KCHC.
Who is my therapist?
Your therapist is Samantha Selby, the proprietor of KCHC, click here to find out more about Sam.