Ear Infections
Natural Remedies

Natural Home Remedies for Ear Infections

| Modified on Nov 11, 2025
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Ear Infection Natural Remedies

Ear infections are a painful and frustratingly common problem for both children and adults.

While antibiotics are often prescribed, centuries-old natural remedies like garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and mullein oil have been used to relieve discomfort, fight infection, and support the body’s healing response. Because the ear is sensitive, using these approaches safely—with the right preparation, warmth, and hygiene—can bring quick relief.

This article explores the most effective home remedies, the science behind them, and how readers of Earth Clinic have successfully used these treatments.

⚠️ Important Medical Disclaimer 

This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Seek prompt care for severe pain, high fever, discharge (pus or blood), dizziness, swelling, or sudden hearing loss. Never place any liquid or oil in the ear if a perforated (ruptured) eardrum is known or suspected.


Causes & Types of Ear Infections

Ear infections are usually caused by bacteria or viruses, often following a cold, sinus infection, or allergy flare-up. The two most common types have different symptoms and require different treatments:

  • Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media): Occur behind the eardrum when fluid from a respiratory infection gets trapped and infected. This causes a deep, aching pain, a feeling of fullness, muffled hearing, and often a fever. This is most common in children.
  • Outer Ear Infections (Swimmer’s Ear / Otitis Externa): This is an infection of the ear canal itself. It's often caused by moisture (from swimming or showering) that allows bacteria or fungi to grow. Symptoms include itchiness, redness, swelling, and pain that worsens when you tug on the outer ear.

Top Natural Remedies for Ear Infections

IMPORTANT: Remedies are different for middle ear pain versus an outer ear (swimmer's) infection. Read the descriptions carefully.

Group 1: For Pain Relief (Generally Safest for All Types)

These remedies are applied outside the ear and are excellent for soothing the deep ache of a middle ear infection.

1. Warm Compress (Safest First Step)

  • Why: The gentle heat increases blood circulation to the area, which can help speed up healing and dramatically reduce pain.
  • How to Use: Soak a washcloth in warm (not hot) water, wring it out, and hold it over the entire affected ear for 15-20 minutes. A warm rice sock or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel also works.

2. Onion Poultice

  • Why: Onions contain natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds (like quercetin and sulfur) that can help draw out pain.
  • How to Use: Warm half an onion (in the oven, microwave, or a pan). Wrap it in a thin cloth (like a tea towel) and hold it over the painful ear for 15-30 minutes. Do not place onion juice in the ear.

3. Steam Inhalation

  • Why: This primarily helps middle ear infections by relieving sinus congestion. Clearing the sinuses can help the Eustachian tubes (which connect your throat to your middle ear) drain properly.
  • How to Use: Inhale steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water for 10-15 minutes. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or chamomile oil to the bowl can add to the soothing effect.

Group 2: Ear Drops (Antimicrobial & Soothing)

Safety First: NEVER use drops if you suspect the eardrum is perforated (e.g., from a past rupture, a sharp object, or if you have severe pain followed by a sudden gush of fluid and pain relief). These are best for outer ear issues or only if you are certain the eardrum is intact.

4. Garlic-Infused Olive Oil

  • Why: Garlic has powerful natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Olive oil helps soothe the inflamed ear canal.
  • How to Use: Gently warm 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil with one crushed garlic clove (do not boil). Let it cool to body temperature. Strain out the garlic. Tilt the head and apply 1–2 drops into the affected ear. Cover lightly with cotton.

5. Mullein Oil

  • Why: Mullein is a traditional herb known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It is often sold in combination with garlic oil.
  • How to Use: Apply 1–2 drops of pre-made mullein oil (warmed to body temperature) in the ear 2–3 times daily.

6. Warm Olive Oil (Sweet Oil)

  • Why: Soothes inflammation, calms irritation, and can help soften wax buildup that may be trapping bacteria.
  • How to Use: Warm 2–3 drops of plain olive oil slightly (test on your wrist) and apply to the ear canal, keeping the head tilted for 10 minutes.

Group 3: For Swimmer's Ear & Buildup (Outer Ear ONLY)

These acidic and drying remedies are only for the outer ear canal. Do not use them for a middle ear infection.

7. White Vinegar & Rubbing Alcohol

  • Why: This is the classic, most effective remedy for swimmer's ear. The alcohol dries moisture, and the vinegar creates an acidic pH that kills bacteria and fungi.
  • How to Use: Mix equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Tilt your head and apply 2–3 drops. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then tilt your head to drain it out.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar (Diluted)

  • Why: Similar to white vinegar, ACV restores a healthy pH to the ear canal, making it hostile to pathogens.
  • How to Use: Mix equal parts ACV and distilled water. Apply 2-3 drops, wait a minute, and drain. (This may sting more than the alcohol mix).

9. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)

  • Why: Excellent for cleaning debris and loosening impacted ear wax that can cause infections. It is also antibacterial.
  • How to Use: Tilt your head and add a few drops of 3% H2O2 to the ear. Let it bubble for 5-10 minutes (until it stops). Tilt your head to drain everything out and dry the ear.   Caution: Do not use if you suspect a perforation. Overuse can irritate the ear canal.

Diet & Lifestyle for Ear Health

  • Avoid Dairy & Sugar: For many, especially children, dairy and sugar can increase mucus production and inflammation, worsening middle ear infections. Try eliminating them for a few days.
  • Limit Processed Foods: These can weaken the immune response.
  • Boost Immunity: Eat zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, legumes) and Vitamin C-rich fruits to support recovery.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus, promoting better drainage from the Eustachian tubes.
  • Protect Ears: After swimming or showering, tilt your head to drain water and gently dry your outer ears.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you or your child experiences:

  • Severe ear pain that lasts over 48 hours or worsens.
  • A high fever (above 102°F or 39°C).
  • Discharge, pus, or bleeding from the ear.
  • Sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or a spinning sensation (vertigo).
  • Swelling or redness behind the ear.

What Earth Clinic Readers Report

Most Helpful Remedies

  • Garlic Oil: "Relieves pain almost instantly. We use it at the first sign of an earache."
  • Mullein & Garlic Oil Combo: "The best one-two punch. Dries up the infection and stops the pain."
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: "The bubbling just feels like it's cleaning everything. My ear felt unclogged and the pain went away."
  • Vinegar/Alcohol Mix: "The only thing that works for my swimmer's ear. I use it after every swim now as a preventative."
  • Warm Compress: "The most soothing option for my toddler. It calms him down and lets him sleep."

Mixed / Cautionary Experiences

  • Garlic Oil Too Hot: "I didn't test the oil first and it was too hot. Always test on your wrist!"
  • Overusing Peroxide: "I used peroxide every day and it made my ear canal dry and itchy. Now I only use it once or twice."
  • Essential Oils: "I tried undiluted tea tree oil and it burned. Always dilute in a carrier oil like olive oil."
  • Using Drops with Perforation: "I had a hole in my eardrum and didn't know it. The drops caused severe pain. Be careful."

FAQs

  What's the difference: middle ear vs. swimmer's ear remedies?  

This is critical. Middle ear infections (otitis media) are behind the eardrum. Pain is best treated with over-the-ear heat (compresses) and internal immune support (diet). Ear drops are risky and may not reach the problem. Swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is in the ear canal. It's best treated with drying, antimicrobial drops like vinegar/alcohol. Using drying drops for a middle ear infection won't work and may cause pain.

  Can I use these remedies for children?  

Yes—but with extreme caution. The safest remedies are external, like a warm compress or onion poultice. For drops, always use gentle, body-temperature oils. Never use drops if there’s pain when pressing the ear or any possibility of an eardrum rupture. For young children, applying warm oil around the outer ear (not in) can be soothing.

  How long do natural treatments take to work?  

Many people notice pain relief within a few hours. Continue the remedies for 1-2 days after symptoms subside to ensure the infection is gone. If symptoms don't improve in 48-72 hours, see a doctor.

  Can ear infections heal on their own?  

Many mild viral or bacterial infections resolve without antibiotics, especially with good immune support. This is why "watchful waiting" is often recommended for mild cases. However, severe or recurrent cases need medical evaluation.


With the right natural remedies and good hygiene, many mild ear infections improve quickly. Gentle, warmed oils, antimicrobial herbs, and external heat can ease discomfort while supporting the body’s ability to heal. For persistent or severe infections, always consult a healthcare provider—especially when pain, fever, or hearing changes occur.


Keep reading below to see how our readers successfully treated their ear infections at home, and please share which remedy worked for you!

Related Links:

Natural Remedies for Ear Pain in Children


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Alcohol and White Vinegar


Posted by Jackie (Ca) on 11/30/2016 11 posts
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I think this recipe is fairly well-known/common, but I thought I would share it here because I use it every time I get an ear infection (which is not that often), and it has cured me of all of them since I discovered it. One time several years ago I got a strange blister-like cyst in my ear canal, and this recipe cured that and brought almost immediate relief to the pain as well. The recipe is very simple: just combine equal parts of vinegar (I use regular white/yellow vinegar, but probably any kind would do), and Rubbing alcohol (70-90%), and put a drop in each ear and let it run down into the ear canal. When I had the strange cyst thing, I got a Q-tip soaked in the alcohol/vinegar mixture and then pressed it gently against the bump in my ear canal. Like I said, it felt better almost instantly, after having bothered me for weeks. That's when I first tried this recipe. Since then I have cured several other ear infections (including one my boyfriend had, who also said his ear felt better immediately). Both ingredients in the mix kill germs and the alcohol also has a drying effect, which I think is important if you have fluid build-up in the ear from the infection or swimming, etc.


Alcohol and White Vinegar
Posted by Big Joe (Chicago, Il) on 10/23/2012
★★★★★

I have been using alcohol and white vinegar for 35 years with great effect every time. I keep a little squeeze bottle by my sink. The kind with the top that pushes in to close. I used half white vinegar and half isopropyl alcohol. I just put a few drops in one side and wait until it goes down all the way. Then do the other side. The mixture will not stain your clothes.


Alcohol with Tincture of Iodine


Posted by rob (Kentucky) on 12/20/2020
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Rubbing alcohol (use 70% or higher if available) dries the ear and kills both bacteria and fungi. An inflamed ear may sting a bit at first, but usually “toughens up” over time. If it really hurts, alcohol may not be the best choice for your ear – discuss with your doctor.

With a stubborn infection, your doctor may recommend using alcohol in your ear twice a day. In those who are infection prone, some folks use this once a week or once a month. I like to add 2% Tincture of Iodine to the alcohol at 2 drops iodine to 20 drops alcohol. Put the alcohol mixture in ear, allow to set for a minute or so, tilt head up right to drain liquid out of ear and use a hair dryer to dry my ear out even more.

Iodine kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and even spores of bacteria and fungi, including anthra spores. Iodine was used successfully against influenza, herpes, small pox, and chicken pox viruses. When iodine was suspended in a solution, viral inactivation occurred at dilutions of 1/1,000,000. (Gershenfeld, L.: Iodine. In Disinfection, Sterilization, and Preservation. Edited by S. S. Block. Philadelphia, Les & Febiger, 1977, pp.196-218.)


Apple Cider Vinegar


Posted by Laura (London) on 12/31/2016
★★★★★

I was in a lot of pain with a sore ear. Painkillers weren't working. I decided to try Apple Cider Vinegar and the pain is no more. I put 1 dropper full in my ear and sat with my head tilted for a few minutes. Very happy.

Replied by Rob
(Kentucky)
09/13/2025

Acetic acid (Acetic acid is the main component of vinegar) is a topical antiseptic that creates an acidic environment in the ear canal to stop the growth of bacteria and fungus causing the infection.

You can consider making apple cider vinegar (acetic acid 5%) diluted with water 1:1 ratio ear drops/solution will make a 2 ½ solution. This is a mild vinegar solution that stops the overgrowth of bacteria/fungi and helps with itchy ears. Irrigate this solution in the ear morning and evening for 7 to 10 days. Your ear should improve 48 – 72 hours after starting treatment. Most people get better within 7 – 10 days.

STUDIES.

Vinegar in Chronic Otitis externa and Myringitis (inflammation of the eardrum)
June 2010 Indian Journal of Otology Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286298164_Vinegar_in_chronic_otitis_externa_and_myringitis

Role of Vinegar in medicine is known from ancient time, specifically for dressing of wounds. A prospective study of vinegar (4% acetic acid with 1:1 ratio of normal saline and vinegar 4% with 1:1 ratio of 95% isopropyl alcohol was conducted to conclude its role in chronic otitis externa and myringitis. Vinegar with saline was effective in 45.52% otitis externa, 54.47% in otomycosis and 81.03% in myringitis while vinegar with alcohol was 90.62% effective in swimmer's ear.

Role of 1.5% Acetic Acid (Apple Cider Vinegar) Irrigation and Medical Management in Chronic

Persistent Suppurative Otitis Media.

Department of otorhinolaryngology, Santhiram Medical College and General Hospital, Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh,

India

ABSTRACT

Background: Chronic ear discharge in chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) persisting for more than two weeks has become difficult to treat for ENT specialists due to resistance to the available antibiotics and patient's affordability for its cost. Also, biofilms have been responsible for the disease and cause tympanic membrane perforation and deafness. The use of 1.5% acetic acid irrigation acts as an antiseptic, and altering the middle ear's pH to treat otorrhea in CSOM needs to be studied. Aim of the study to assess results of 1.5% acetic acid irrigation and topical and systemic antibiotic in CSOM and to consider the most appropriate medical management.

Methods: A total of 100 patients of CSOM was divided equally into two groups. Group 1 patients were treated with 1.5% acetic acid irrigation every other day, and group 2 was treated with topical and systemic antibiotics three drops' times daily. Follow up of both groups every week up to symptomatic relief.

Results: Otorrhoea resolution in the group treated with acetic acid was 88%, and healing of perforation was noted in 28 %, while the failure rate of 12%.

Conclusions: Medical management of persistent CSOM with tubotympanic type by frequent aural cleaning, 1.5% acetic acid irrigation can be the more desirable choice than the topical and oral antibiotics. It is safe without any side effects and economical. Alteration of ear canal PH is one of the main factors for healing, in addition to mechanical disruption of biofilm and removal of deep-seated debris.

A Comparative Study of Acetic Acid vs Ciprofloxacin Topical Ear Drops in Achieving Dry Ear in Tubotympanic CSOM Patients.

Source: https://jptcp.com/index.php/jptcp/article/view/7850

Abstract
Aim: To study the effect of topical instillation of ACETIC ACID V/S CIPROFLOXACIN EAR DROPS in medical management of tubotympanic CSOM.

Materials and Methods: 100 patients including Male and Female above 15 years attending ENT OPD, at Index Medical College and having perforation in pars tensa (tubotympanic CSOM) will be evaluated. These patients underwent ENT examination. Oto-endoscopic examination was done. Further, patient were advised to undergo X-ray bilateral mastoid and pure tone audiometry.

Results: The results of the present study showed that dry ear was significantly achieved in patients using acetic acid (92% patients) than ciprofloxacin (66% patients) ear drops.

Conclusion: Medical management of tubotympanic type of CSOM is better achieved using 2% acetic acid ear drops rather than 0.3% ciprofloxacin ear drops.


Cayenne Pepper


Posted by Dr. Nick (Palm Harbor Fl) on 08/11/2020
★★★★★

TLDR: get a cayenne pepper TINCTURE for Ear Infections

I read all the posts about cayenne, I tried taking a tsp full of it, didn't notice any difference. I, however, remembered that I had a cayenne pepper Herb Pharm tincture (I have a giant cabinet full of supplements). I took about 1 ML or a dropper full, and 10 minutes later my ear started popping and feeling better. I also applied some hydrogen peroxide, natural ear ache oil, which was also helpful. But I noticed the biggest difference from the cayenne.


Cayenne Pepper
Posted by Onyx (Madrid, Spain) on 03/08/2012
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Hello fellow sufferers. Just felt obliged to share my experience. I've been having excruciating pain in both of my ears for the last 5 months, it was usually much worse during the evening. I was in physical and mental agony, because it really can drive you up the wall that pain. I found this website by accident looking for pain relief or at least some explanation (docs didn't help). The same evening I bought ground Cayenne Pepper and decided to give it a try... I put a bit less than half a teaspoon in a glass of luke warm water and downed it... I could feel it working from the first go!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It wasn't nice, I'm not used to spicy stuff and my eyes were about to pop out, but it passed a minute or so later. That heat the pepper gave cleared the pressure in my nose immediately.

The next day another 2 glasses of the magic stuff later I was laying on my right side and I felt a sudden sharp pain in my ear, like a pop, like someone stuck a screwdriver in my right ear and a strong sensation of relief.... Then..... Nothing.... Absolutely nothing. It was 2 weeks ago. I've not had pain since, not even once. I can't believe it!!!!!! It was ruining my life, I was grumpy the whole time, and not to mention very scared that it was something much more sinister than some infection. In my opinion it was an infection getting out of control, like candida or something. I was very stressed out at the time it started 5 months ago, so it can easily be stress related candida symptom. I do get an occasional itch in my ears, but small itching is normal now and again. I also take a glass of water with 1 tbspoon of ACV and 1/2 teaspoon of soda bicarbonate twice a day now, I can honestly say that I've never felt better. Thank you EarthClinic! THANK YOU! Good luck and good health everyone x


Cayenne Pepper
Posted by Niki (Eugene, Or) on 10/28/2011
★★★★☆

I tried this remedy (1/4 teaspoon cayenne to 6oz water) and did exactly as it says. My sinuses did drain a little, but my ear continued to hurt and stay clogged for some time. It did drain about 2-3 hours after I went to bed. I have no doubt that it was helpful, but I cannot say I experienced any immediate relief.

I did not have fresh organic cayenne measured by strength; it was Morton's brand and fairly new, but I suspect it wasn't as potent or fresh as could be had.


Chiropractic


Posted by Kristina B (Conway, AR) on 09/27/2022
★★★★★

Chiropractic visit for ear infection. They can do an adjustment that will cause the eustachian tubes to open and drain. It makes a popping sound inside your head. I didn't know this was a thing, but went in for a routine appt when I had an ear infection once and said something about it when they asked how I was doing. They did that and it was IMMEDIATE relief. I always recommend garlic-infused olive oil and chiropractic care now.


Coconut Oil


Posted by Stuart (Puerto Princesa, Palawan Philippines) on 06/25/2011
★★★★★

Hi I live in Philippines, and love to go swimming only unfortunately I am prone to ear infections, which seem to happen nearly every time I go swimming, these infections are difficult to heal, I used to have to use anti-biotic ear drops, plus internal anti-biotics to clear them up and it would take 7 to 10 days.

One day after reading about the anti-bacterial properties of virgin coconut oil I decided to put vco drops in my ear several times a day, it cleared in 3 days, so now before I go swimming a few drops of vco will stop me getting an ear infection.


Colloidal Silver


Posted by Kerry (San Antonio, Tx) on 12/10/2017
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I began to feel an ear ache that became increasingly painful to the point that I couldn't ignore it. I had colloidal silver on hand (10ppm) and put a couple drops in the affected ear. I felt a slight bubbling but within minutes lying on my side to allow the silver to penetrate, I felt the pain subside. I then began to resume my activities. I felt it return once more, I repeated the same procedure and soon enough pain subsided but this time never returned. I believe the colloidal silver quickly conquered an ear infection.


Dietary Changes


Posted by Christopher (USA) on 03/30/2008
★★★★★

An allergic reaction to milk doesnt have to be the runs! For me it was swelling of the throat and hours later a double ear infection.

I did feel there was a connection but did realize it till i read a french book on allergies. Ear infections can be caused by milk... same for swollen tonsils.. I have no tonsils anymore.. i wish i had been old enough to stop them from cutting them out...

Anyhow we had free cheese at work.. didnt seem to affect me then one day i wanted milk...

i dont usually cause well like cheese... it contains mucus and is mucus forming... (at the time in camp, i had to eat cheese for protein cause some of the cooks thought pasta was food)

i drank 5 tiny cups like almost those bathroom cups of milk.. then that the evening my eardrums popped. i havent touched milk since. unless to test.where as a cup of chocolate milk made my throat glands on the sides sore...

The only other thing to make my throat swell like that is mcdonalds beef burgers and orange juice.

Replied by Kirk
(Penfold, Sunshine Coast , British Columbia)
10/06/2009

You are absolutely right regarding milk and ear infections, alot of people are intolerant to dairy products with out knowing it, this is especially true for people with inherited smaller eustashian tubes. Even a slight amount of mucus that gathers in the tubes can result in ear aches and infections.

Replied by Marlene
(South africa)
07/24/2025

Ho christopher strane abput macdonalds my daughter also have severe allergy from macdonalds. Do you know what specifically causes your reaction?


Garlic


Posted by Larry (Los Angeles, CA) on 09/14/2024
★★★★★

Couldn't sleep with a swollen, throbbing, painful ear infection around side of my head and jawbone. Maybe from a dirty earbud. Dipped a q-tip in some minced garlic with drop of dmso and gently swabbed all around inside swollen ear. Next morning relief 90% better. Swabbed garlic again that night and next day 100% relief. Thank you Earthclinic!!


Garlic
Posted by Rob (Kentucky) on 11/10/2020
★★★★★

Garlic Juice to Cure an Ear Infection, mince two garlic cloves and place the pulp into a fine mesh strainer. Use a spoon to squeeze the pulp thru the strainer so the juice falls thru into a small bowl. Now, use an eye dropper to collect the juice. Add one drop garlic juice into your ear helps to relieve the pain and fight an ear infection. Use a cotton ball to plug the ear. Repeat 2 – 3 time daily til cured.

If garlic juice it too strong for you, cut it in half with a drop of olive oil 1:1 ratio.


Garlic
Posted by Fahim (Concord Ca.) on 07/22/2017
★★★★★

I had a very bad earache. I put clove of garlic in to my ear. Couldn't believe how fast the pain was gone. Also used it on my tooth and my gum. Fascinating what God had created for pain and killing any bacteria.


Garlic
Posted by Eb (San Antonio, Tx) on 10/19/2012
★★★★★

I have had an acute ear infection since Tuesday. I've been taking antibiotic drops three times a day, and prescription-strength ibuprofen as needed for the pain. Unfortunately, "as needed" was turning out to be a lot more than I'd expected. It didn't seem like the antibiotics were working. I realized that I was taking my prescriptions like a good girl, but I wasn't doing anything to enable my own body to fight the infection naturally.

Starting last night (Thursday night) I began taking a TON of Vitamin C. Then I came to this site and read about garlic, and this morning I bought some 2, 000 mg garlic tablets. I took two right away, and some more Vitamin C. Within an hour I felt my inner ear begin to drain into my throat, which I took as a good sign. I am continuing my antibiotic drops, but they hurt so bad when I put them in that I have to blow-dry my ear afterwards (which REALLY helps).

Long story short, I've only had to take a minimum dosage of over-the-counter pain medicine (ibuprofen) today, because I can absolutely feel the infection clearing up. It's still a bit painful, and every once in a while it will throb for a few minutes, but I can generally deal with it and it's not the nail-biting, leg-cramping, stomach-twisting agony I've been experiencing for the last two days.

I definitely recommend it! It can't hurt, after all. And of course I'm not discontinuing the medicine I was given by my doctor.



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