Glue ear is a chronic condition affecting a large number of children. It is characterized by a thick, often smelly mucus that builds up in the middle ear, impairing hear­ing and causing the eardrum to perforate to allow the mucus to be discharged. Glue ear is common in children who have frequent colds or other infections, which block the Eustachian tube.

Herbalism

• Herbs to reduce catarrh include chamomile, eWerfkower, and eyebright, and they can be blended or taken separately in a variety of forms to dear congestion.
• Chamomile and echinacea can betaken rrtemafy or added to a foot – or handbath to reduce infection and relieve symptoms.

Homeopathy

• Use Kali bich. if there is mucus in the throat and pain in the sinuses.
• Use Graphites if there is a yellow discharge.
• Use Sulfur if there is a thick, yellow, smelly discharge from the ear.
• Use Calc, carb. if there is discharge with swollen glands and night sweat.

Flower essences

• Rescue Remedy cream can be rubbed in around the ear canal, or Rescue Remedy can be taken internally to relieve pain and discomfort.

Aromatherapy

• Massage the ear area with a few drops of essential oil of lavender in a light carrier oil.
• A steam inhalation of eucalyptus, chamomile, or lavender can help to reduce catarrh and ease symptoms.
• Apply a hot compress to the nose, ears, and throat using diluted essential oik of lavender, rosewood, or chamomile.

From the larder

• Garlic is excellent at shifting catarrh and cleansing the blood. Offer as pedes, or chop fresh garlic and serve with a teaspoon of honey.
• Honey and lemon drinks are restorative, will soothe a sore throat and are also antibacterial .
• A little cider vinegar with honey in hot water will help to dear infection and boost the immune system.
• Blackcurrant tea is excellent for catarrh and will encourage healing.

Self-help

• Avoid foods that cause mucus to be produced – dairy produce, refined sugars, and wheat are the main culprits.
• Offer foods rich in vitamin C and zinc.
• Ensure that your child is not in contact with cigarette smoke or dust.
• Treat for ear infections accordingly.
• Improve the fmmune system.

Gentle neck massage with diluted lavender oil can help soothe earache.

CAUTION
Glue ear should be treated to avoid later hearing problems caused by scarring of the eardrum.