Ear candling, a practice involving placing a hollow candle in the ear canal and lighting the opposite end, is considered by many healthcare professionals to be ineffective and potentially risky. Despite claims of various benefits, there's limited scientific evidence to support its efficacy. In fact, it's often discouraged due to the potential risks, such as burns, ear canal obstruction, and injury to the eardrum.
 
However, proponents of ear candling suggest several potential benefits, although these claims lack substantial scientific support:
 
Earwax Removal: Some believe that ear candling can help remove excess earwax and impurities from the ear canal. However, studies have shown that ear candling does not effectively remove earwax and may even deposit candle wax in the ear canal.
 
Relief from Ear Infections or Sinus Issues: Advocates claim that ear candling can alleviate symptoms related to ear infections, sinus infections, and allergies. However, there's insufficient scientific evidence to support these claims, and using ear candles for these purposes can pose risks to ear health.
 
Relaxation and Stress Relief: Some individuals find the process of ear candling to be relaxing and may believe it provides stress relief. However, any perceived relaxation is more likely due to the calming atmosphere rather than any actual therapeutic effect of the process.
It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for safe and effective methods of ear care if you're experiencing ear-related issues. Ear candling should be approached with caution due to the lack of evidence supporting its benefits and the potential risks it poses to ear health.