Hopi Ear Candles

Thermal Auricular Therapy (also known as Hopi Ear Candles) is a pleasant and non-invasive treatment of the ears that can be used to treat many conditions of the ear, nose and throat area. These ear candles induce a revitalising heat upon the head and ears, which soothes, relieves and relaxes.

How do Hopi Ear Candles work?

The candles work by vapourising their ingredients once lit, causing convectional air flow towards the first chamber of the ear. The candle creates a mild suction which lets the vapours gently massage the eardrum and auditory canal. Once the candle is placed in the ear it forms a seal which enables wax and other impurities to be drawn out of the ear. The candles are made from the natural ingredients of beeswax, honey extracts, sage, St Johns Wort, chamomile, beta-carotene and organically grown flax. A constant high quality is ensured.

The candles work on a chimney principle, drawing any impurities to the surface where they can be gently removed. They equalise the pressure in the head and ears, making them suitable for most conditions. Secretion flow is gently stimulated and the vapour collects and removes impurities or deposits. Most of these are carried away through the candle "chimney", although some of them can be found in the condensed candle wax residue after removal from the ear, or could even work their way up to the surface 24-48 hours after.

A Brief History of Hopi Ear Candles

This is an ancient and natural therapy handed down by many civilisations. It is believed that the Ancient Greeks used ear candles, initially probably for cleansing, purifying and healing on a spiritual basis, but much later on a purely physical basis. However, the practice reached the modern world via the native American Hopi Indians of North Arizona (Hopi means peaceful people). Ear candles were used traditionally by Shamen healers. Ancient wall paintings show their importance in initiation rituals and healing ceremonies of the tribe. The candles are still made today on the basis of the old traditional formula originating from the Hopi Indians.

What can be treated with Hopi Ear Candles?

• Tinitus, compacted ear wax and glue ear
• Sore throats and hay fever
• Headache and migraine
• Sinusitis and rhinitis
• Catarrh and asthma
• Vertigo
• Menier's Disease
• Neuralgia

What cannot be treated with Hopi Ear Candles?

• Perforation or lack of eardrum
• Ventilation tubes, auricular drains or grommets
• Recent ear surgery
• Auricular cysts
• Acute mastoiditis
• Otosclerosis or Otospongiosis
• Ear tumour

Remember, if in doubt, always contact your GP.

What a typical Treatment Session entails

You are asked to lie comfortably and listen to relaxing music. The candle is then gently placed into the auditory canal, where it is lit. It is held in a vertical position, keeping the candle steady and preventing any ash falling on to you. You will experience a pleasant crackling sound as the candle burns and a warm comfortable feeling. As the candle burns down, the residue ash (if it falls) will just turn to dust. The candle is then taken away while you lie there for a few moments before turning over to treat the other ear. Most clients find the whole experience very relaxing. Some fall asleep during treatment.

What does the treatment include?

• A short consultation about medications and ear conditions
• An ear examination
• A candle is then put in the first ear and lit (this lasts approximately 9-11 minutes)
• The ear is then cleaned
• The second ear is then treated and cleaned
• There is a facial massage to improve circulation and energy flow to the area
• The client will be asked to drink a glass of water to rehydrate
• The candles can then be examined to identify problems with the ear and ascertain whether further treatments are needed

How much does it cost?

The treatment usually lasts ½ hr. Please check our pricing page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of some typical questions I'm frequently asked. Hopefully anything you might want to know is covered somewhere on this page. If it isn't please contact us.

Does the residue of the candle go into the ear?
No - the candles are made with a plug inside which prevents anything going into the ear.

Does it help to have a treatment before taking a flight?
Yes - if you have no ear infection and if you suffer with ears or sinus problems, it is a good idea to have a treatment prior to your flight to get rid of any excess wax.

I suffer from a lot of ear wax and often have them syringed. Could I use these candles instead?
Yes you could. I have a number of clients who previously endured the discomfort of syringing but now visit me for hopi treatment instead.

Therapist(s) offering Hopi Ear Candling:

Prices:

For full details see our Price List.