Purpose of ear candling?!

Purpose of ear candling?

I have been interested in ear candling for years but wondered if it’s only purpose was to remove wax? Are there any other health benefits? I sleep with ear plugs every night and if anything I have a reduction in ear wax from wearing them. I’m further confused because I imagine ear wax is like mucous - it serves a purpose to keep bacteria from getting in and the removal of it could leave you prone to infections. Thanks in advance for your insight!

Your instincts are correct... ear candling is hogwash and potentially dangerous.

The ear canal produces cerumen as part of its self-cleaning mechanism. It traps dirt and debris to keep it from damaging the delicate tissues of the eardrum; it also has an acerbic taste to discourage insects from trying to nestle in the cozy environment. There was an article going around the web a couple weeks ago about a boy that had spiders in his ear canal. I've seen ants and roaches.

For most people, it is best to do nothing beyond washing the external ear with a washcloth and fingertip. Some people have narrow or twisting ear canals, or very dry cerumen that make it more difficult for it to work its own way out -- for them drops like MiraCell or Debrox can help, as well as periodic visits to the Ear Nose & Throat doctor for cleaning.