The ear candle treatment uses long, hollow ‘candles’ which are manufactured using organic cotton and a selection of natural ingredients such as honey extracts, crushed herbs, and beeswax which are impregnated into the lining. The candle is gently placed about a quarter-inch into ear and lit, allowing the flame’s heat to pass down the candle’s hollow centre going deeper into the ear canal. The warm air eventually comes into contact with colder air and a vacuum effect is created - drawing out any wax, candida, yeast and other debris that may be lodged in the ear canal. The movement and compression between the ear canal and the candle chamber generate air flow that functions like a chimney. This ‘chimney effect ’is what stimulates the sucking action. The removal of excess wax and impurities helps to clear the inner ear and sinuses,regulates ear pressure and brings about a lighter sensation in the head and ears. Ear candling is also thought to induce deep relaxation, which is enhanced via the infusion of herbs and essential oils into the candle itself. This turns to vapour when the candle is lit which is then drawn into the ear canal where it creates a soothing, massaging effect that protects and softens any irritated areas in the ear.
The treatment usually lasts about 30 - 45 minutes (varies as the amount your ear is blocked will effect the speed at which the candle burns). After an initial consultation to discuss your medical history and current symptoms we will assess if ear candling is the right treatment for you and discuss what your expectations are. You will be asked to lie dressed from the waist down and covered by a towel, on a massage table with another towel around the areas near the candle. I will perform a gentle facial and scalp massage to relax you followed by burning a candle in each ear which I hold in place at all times. I use the Hopi ear candle – made of the traditional Hopi formula, cylindrical in shape and around 22cm long. Burning time is about 10-12 minutes, and safety features include a filter - which prevents particles from dropping into the ear - and a maximum burn line showing when the candle should be put out. You are likely to experience a crackling sound as the candle burns, and feel a warm and gentle massaging sensation in the ear. After each candle I will massage the area around the ears and face to encourage lymphatic drainage and enhance the effects of the candling. I will stimulate facial and scalp pressure points to end on a fully relaxing note.You can also request to see the inside of the burnt out candle to reveal the condition of your ears. A lot of people report an immediate relief of pressure after the treatment