Ear candling ("Hopi")
Ear candling is a gentle treatment for the ears and sinus. A lit, hollow ‘candle’ (a long, rolled tube containing a filter) is secured in the opening of the outer ear. The basic composition of the standard candle is natural linen and beeswax (giving the candle a pleasant aroma of honey as it burns down). Other ingredients include soothing chamomile and St. John’s Wort, as well as sage (anti-inflammatory) and beta-carotene. Heat from the burning candle warms the passages and alters the pressure around the eardrum and can assist in rebalancing mucus production and softening and loosening earwax.
A number of ear and sinus problems can be helped with this treatment. Under-16 year olds can be treated, provided a parent or guardian is present. Please note that grommets are a contra-indication to treatment, although children scheduled for grommets may be treatable. Ear candle treatment is not suitable for anyone who is allergic to bee-sting or beeswax, or any of the candle’s ingredients, nor for anyone with an acute, inflamed condition or recent injury in the treatment area.
An initial consultation assesses whether the therapy is suitable for the client’s condition and determines a treatment plan. You will be treated lying on your side, turning over to allow alternate access to each ear. If you are unable to lie down, seated treatment is possible. Both ears are always treated. Candles take up to 15 minutes per ear to burn down, depending on the condition encountered and variations in the natural make-up of the candle.
A follow-up facial massage uses gentle pressure to further treat the sinus, condition the face and aid relaxation.