Home remedies for fungal ear infection:
- Fungal ear infection is also known as otomycosis or fungal otitis externa.
- In fungal ear infection fungi, such as Candida or Aspergillus invade and grow in the ear canal.
| Causes of Fungal Ear Infections | Home Remedies for fungal ear infection | Method of use | Mode of Action |
| Excessive Moisture | Warm Compresses | Soak a clean cloth in warm water, squeeze out excess water and place it against the infected ear for 15-20 minutes. | Applying warmth soothes discomfort. It also improves blood circulation and promotes drainage of fluids. |
| Earbuds or Hearing Aids
| Olive Leaf Extract
| Dilute olive leaf extract with water and use a dropper to apply a few drops in the ear. Repeat 2-3 times a day. | Olive leaf extract contains compounds like oleuropein that have antifungal properties. These compounds can disrupt the cell walls of fungi thus leading to their inhibition and eventual elimination. |
| Ear Hygiene Practices
| Garlic Oil
| Crush a garlic clove and mix it with warm olive oil. Let it sit for a few hours, then strain. Apply a few drops in the ear, 2-3 times a day. | Garlic contains allicin which is a natural antifungal compound that can help to fight fungal infections. |
| Swimming
| Salt Water
| Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Use a dropper to put a few drops in the ear then allows it to drain out after a few minutes. | Salt water, or saline solution, creates a hypertonic environment that can draw out excess moisture from the ear canal |
| Humid Climate
| Tea Tree Oil
| Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in carrier oil. Apply a small amount of tea tree oil with the help of cotton in the ear for a few hours and then remove it. | Antifungal and antibacterial properties of tea tree oil can help to remove fungal growth. |
| Skin Conditions
| Coconut Oil
| Warm coconut oil slightly and apply a few drops in the ear. | Caprylic acid and lauric acid which are present in coconut oil have strong antifungal properties that can soothe ear infection. |
| Compromised Immune System | Apple Cider Vinegar | Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently clean the ear. Repeat 2-3 times a day. | Apple cider vinegar’s acidity helps to create an inhospitable environment for fungi and can promote healing. |
| Injury or Trauma
| Hydrogen Peroxide
| Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Use a dropper to put a few drops in the ear. Let it bubble for a few minutes, then drain. | Hydrogen peroxide can help to remove debris, clear the ear, and create an environment less favorable for fungi. |
| Diabetes
| Aloe Vera Gel
| Extract fresh aloe vera gel and warm it slightly. Apply a few drops in the ear and then tilt your head to drain excess moisture after 10 minutes. | Aloe vera gel has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in the ear canal |
| Previous Infections
| Oregano Oil
| Mix a few drops of oregano oil with carrier oil. Apply a drop or two in the ear and gently massage around the outer ear. | Keeping ears clean and dry prevents moisture buildup, reducing the chances of fungal growth. |