As an herbalist, it's my goal to find natural and holistic approaches for the health of my family, community, and myself. Like these home remedy ear infection drops (garlic ear oil). As a mother of young children, it seems at least one of the kids always has a runny nose and congestion. Which easily turns into an ear infection. So, I have spent some time formulating natural ear infection drops that actually work!
Items needed for home remedy ear infection drops (garlic ear oil)
- Glass bottle with dropper
- Olive oil or fractionated coconut oil
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Tea tree oil
What causes ear infections?
An ear infection occurs when a bacterial or viral infection affects the middle ear. Inflammation and fluid build up in the middle ear because of blocked Eustachian tubes.
These can occur for varying reasons such as allergies, sinus infections, and colds, to name a few.
In my personal experience, the ear infections in myself and my children are ALWAYS a result of lingering colds. (Which we try to prevent by taking elderberry syrup regularly during cold and flu season.)
Antibiotics are not always the answer
Two of my kids have had ear tubes because of chronic ear infections, and we have our pediatric ENT on speed-dial. I honestly can't tell you the amount of antibiotics that have been pumped through their systems, trying to clear up the pain and infections. At one point, the antibiotics weren't effective, and I personally feel that our doctor was carelessly prescribing them.
Do my kids get viral ear infections? Perhaps. But is there a chance a resistance to the antibiotics is building, or that there is a greater underlying problem? A likely possibility.
The Center for Disease Control recommends "watchful waiting" for healthcare providers before they engage in the knee-jerk reaction of prescribing antibiotics. I also found this article extremely informative in terms of information and studies about ear infections and antibiotic resistance.
Natural home remedy ear infection drops for support
We've now established that we most likely don't need antibiotics for ear infections. I use the following herbal remedies that contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions to support discomfort and infection that may be lurking in the inner ear:
Olive oil
Olive oil is an affordable and readily available oil with amazing health benefits, such as being antibacterial and antiviral. It's also heat tolerant for making infusions. I also have used fractionated coconut oil. This is the liquid form of the oil so it stays liquid at room temperature. It can be used as a carrier oil to dilute essential oils and infuse with other herbs. It only contains its medium fatty acid chains, meaning a large amount of the antimicrobial properties are no longer available. However, it is very smooth, heats well, and doesn't clog the ear. I buy mine here.
Garlic
Raw garlic is an incredibly powerful root and food. It's in many recipes for tonics and ciders because of its many herbal actions. These include antibacterial, antiviral, anti fungal, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulator. It's one of the oldest home remedies for ear infections. In fact, an herbalist colleague of mine said she sticks cloves of garlic in her kid's ears when there is a looming infection. (That made me laugh out loud at the thought of it. But apparently it's effective!)
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil (melaleuca) is a common essential oil used for infections because of its antimicrobial properties. The Clinical Microbiology Review published a paper about the medicinal uses of tea tree oil. It states, "There are already several nonantibiotic approaches to the treatment and prevention of infection, including probiotics, phages, and phytomedicines. Alternative therapies are viewed favorably by many patients because they are often not being helped by conventional therapy and they believe there are fewer detrimental side effects. In addition, many report significant improvement while taking complementary and alternative medicines. Unfortunately, the medical profession has been slow to embrace these therapies, and good scientific data are still scarce. However, as we approach the “postantibiotic era” the situation is changing. A wealth of in vitro data now supports the long-held beliefs that TTO (tea tree oil) has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties."
How to make home remedy ear infection drops
It's extremely easy AND affordable! Have you ever purchased prescription ear drops? You could buy an old used car for the same price. (Okay, that's a slight exaggeration, depending on how generous the seller is.) However, a bottle of the ear drops our ENT prescribed is $160. Um, that's a lot of money. When you can make home remedy ear infection drops for $5.
The most expensive part of these ear drops is the therapeutic grade tea tree oil, which is $19 at wholesale price. And that's the entire bottle, which has so many more uses. (I'm looking at you, toenail fungus.)
To make these, you simply cook two raw cloves of garlic in two tablespoons of olive oil or fractionated coconut oil until fragrant. Strain and pour it in a sterile dropper bottle, and add 6-8 drops of pure tea tree oil. That's it!
I store this ear oil in the fridge for up to one week, and then make a new batch as needed after that. (If ineffectively made or stored in unsterile conditions, garlic can grow bacteria that leads to botulism.)
To reheat, place the bottle of ear oil in a bowl of hot water for 1-2 minutes. Ensure the oil is not too hot by testing a drop on your hand. You can also use a thermometer to test the temperature of the oil.
Using tea tree essential oil safely
There is a lot of misinformation on the internet and social media about how to use essential oils safely. I think many people assume that because they are "natural" and made from plants, that they can be heavy-handed and use them on everyone and everything.
That's not the case. Many essential oils are not safe for children under the age of six. And in my opinion, oils should NEVER be ingested and taken internally. (With the exception of rare cases where it is closely monitored by an herbalist or aromatherapist and its use is short-term.)
Tea tree oil is toxic when ingested and is only to be used topically or aromatically. Also, it is regarded as safe for children in instances to support bacterial infections, such as an ear infection.
Lastly, it's imperative that you use a therapeutic pure grade of essential oil when using them topically. I use doTERRA because of their high standards and testing for purity, and sustainable and ethical attention to co-impact sourcing. If you're interested in how to use essential oils to support your wellness and provide more natural solutions, read my essential oils starter guide here.
Is tea tree oil safe to use in ears?
A good practice to implement when using essential oils is to patch test on a surface area on your skin. Check for any adverse reactions and redness. If everything checks out, you should be able to use these sparingly in your ears, to support ear infections.
I use these home remedy ear infection drops on my two, five, and six-year-old children. We only use these drops when ear pain is present, meaning a handful of times per year.
Take heed to make sure the ear drop oil is warm when applying, and only use one to two drops. Gently drop into the ear and massage, lying on your side, about five minutes, to let it absorb in the inner ear.
(Please note that it's important to consult your healthcare provider if you have specific questions about using alternative approaches to your health. I am not a doctor, and these protocols are intended for educational purposes.)
These home remedy ear infection drops actually work
I've used every ear infection support available. Antibiotics, costly ear drops, ear tubes, warm compresses, decongestants... EVERYTHING.
The first time I used these drops on my five-year-old at his initial complaint of an ear ache due to congestion from a cold, he immediately felt better, and didn't have any symptoms the next day.
That first-hand experience right there gives me everything I need to continue using these beautiful plant medicines. For which I am immensely grateful. And I hope these can support and educate you in your wellness journey for your family, too!
You might also like:
- How to Make Elderberry Syrup
- 3 Home Remedies for Cold + Common Ailments
- Herbs and Supplements to Boost Your Immune System Quickly
Home Remedy Ear Infection Drops (Garlic Ear Oil Recipe)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil or fractionated coconut oil
- 2 cloves raw garlic crushed
- 6-8 drops tea tree oil
Instructions
- Heat oil in a small pan and add crushed garlic. Cook over low heat until garlic becomes fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, and garlic is infused in oil. Remove from heat.
- Strain oil and pour into a sterile glass amber dropper bottle. Add 6-8 drops of tea tree oil. Shake well.
- Drop 1-2 drops oil in ear as needed. Lie on side and gently massage behind ears, about 5 minutes to allow oil to absorb in ear. Use once per day as needed to support ear infections and ear health.
Notes
- Make sure the garlic is roughly chopped or crushed to release juices.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. Reheat oil as needed when using, and make a new batch after that 1 week timeframe to ensure purity.
- To reheat, place the bottle of ear oil in a bowl of hot water for 1-2 minutes. Ensure the oil is not too hot by testing a drop on your hand. You can also use a thermometer to test the temperature of the oil.
Disclaimer: Please check with your healthcare provider or physician for any contraindications or specific questions about these protocols. While these are generally regarded as safe, each individual has specific needs or limitations based on their health history. The information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.
milly james says
You say to reheat when using the rest. so does it hve to be warm each time you put it in ear thanks
Abbey Rodriguez says
It doesn't need to be heated, it just makes it more comfortable.
Oluchi says
I have 7 years old boy , the ear problem started when he was 1 year and 4 months i took he to a pediatric they only washed his ear after that gave me vitamin c nothing more, after some years he complained about the ear again i gave antibiotics and put Olive oil the pain stopped but now the inner ear is white no deity inside and making him uncomfortable now. Do put galic oil? Am in Nigeria
Abbey Rodriguez says
Hi Oluchi, I would recommend taking him to the doctor if he is uncomfortable. This is simply a home remedy to try, but seeking care from your medical provider is the best route if natural ear drops aren't supporting his condition and comfort.
wendy says
Thank you ! My 9 month old son has been battling an ear infection for 2 months now and i did not want him to have to undergo surgery (which was the next step). 2 days in and he is back to his old self and im so glad this worked! I am a current LPN student and dont always think medicine is the answer. This actually got me more interested in wanting to pursue herbalism more! would you tell me where you went and if would recommend ?
Abbey Rodriguez says
Hi Wendy! Herbs are such a wonderful way to support our healthcare. I went to Green Comfort School of Herbs. However, I've heard great things about The Chestnut School of Herbs online program, and The Herbal Academy.
Masha says
Hi. Worried momma here. My baby's ears are hurting. Hes 8 months. Im all about natural remedies. I've heard a lot about garlic oil with tea tree oil but I've always been scared to use it for some reason. I want to make it and ad give it a try. Can I put it on a cotton ball and put it in his ear??
Abbey Rodriguez says
Yes, a cotton ball with oil on it would be great! Make sure to check with your health care provider if there are any issues you may be concerned about.
Maria says
Hi, my 10 years old girl has the right ear inflamed for almost 2 months on and off. She complains of earache and mostly headache? Have ever your child experienced headache with the ear infection? Do you know anybody who had it?
We treated it with antibiotics 2 times and we are trying ear wax candle too. But the headache is still there.
The Butter Half says
Hi Maria. Sorry to hear about the troubles with your daughter. We have not experienced headache with ear ache. I would recommend seeing her health care provider about it, if it keeps being troublesome. Sending good healing vibes to you all!
Kyle Lapointe says
Witch would you suggest using More fractionated coconut oil or olive oil ?
The Butter Half says
I personally use fractionated coconut oil because it's not as heavy, but olive oil works just fine. Use whatever you have on hand!
Kyle Lapointe says
How many days in a row would you suggest using this recipe ? I’ve tried only the tea tree oil and it help a lot I’m planing on trying this Recipe ASAP just wondering How many days you’d suggest taking this ?
The Butter Half says
We usually use it for 3-4 days. If the ear infection symptoms are not clearing up, we opt to see the doctor and see what the next best steps are.
Nancy Lee says
I utilized garlic drops for my child's ears when he was 5 and he never had another ear contamination to date. I did the drops rather and never did he get another and no cylinders! My little 10-month-old infant young lady has her first ailment, twofold ear diseases.
The Butter Half says
Glad to hear you've had success with this method. Hope your little gal is feeling better!
Lamiya says
Is it safe to use with a 3 month old?
Abbey Rodriguez says
Hi Lamiya! I would recommend talking with your pediatrician or healthcare provider about specifics relating to your baby.
Gabrielle says
Hi there does this work for ear blockages? I made some and have tried it and unfortunately my ear won't unblock. I guess give it some more patience?
Gabrielle
The Butter Half says
Hi Gabrielle, I do not use this for ear blockage in particular. We use it to fight bacterial infection in the ear. I would recommend talking to your healthcare provider for other issues.
Deanna says
Hi, I used garlic drops for my sons ears when he was 2 and he never had another ear infection to date and he’s 8! The ENT told me he needed tubes but I did my research before the appt and I told him thank you but no thank you. I did the drops instead and never did he get another and no tubes! My little 5 month old baby girl has her first illness, double ear infections. Can I give her the garlic drops even though she is so young?
Thanks
Deanna
The Butter Half says
Hi Deanna, I too have been in your same situation with the tubes! Glad you've seen the results of the drops from your own experience. They work!
As for your 5 month old... I personally used these on my own children when they were babies of that same age and they worked well for them. However, I always recommend you consult your healthcare provider or pediatrician if you have questions. Hope she feels better soon!
Kaylee Bilger says
Omg thank you SO MUCH for this! I asked in a crunchy mama group what to take and they suggested garlic oil but my daughter was taking a nap so I couldn't go to the store and I was really hurting... I haven't had an ear infection since I was like 8 probably... They SUCK! But I just made and used this. I feel so much better - it's not gone yet completely but I will definitely be using this for if and when my daughter gets one!
The Butter Half says
Kaylee, thank you so much for this great review and feedback! The drops are amazing and I am glad you found success! And thank goodness for those crunchy mama groups when all else fails 😉 I'm always here to be your go-to hippie resource! 🙂
lizzy says
thanks for sharing this message. can it be used for children 9 months to 1 year. can it be prepared when tea oil is not available.
The Butter Half says
Hi Lizzy! I have used this on my children when they were that age and experienced only positive results. Please do check with your healthcare provider if you have any particular questions regarding your baby's health. And yes, it can be prepared just as the garlic drops, which contain antibacterial properties.
Pamular says
How often should I apply in the ear daily?
Thanks!
The Butter Half says
I personally use these 1-2 times a day to support an ear infection.
rohan says
I live in India and it's a very popular home remedy here. However, I'd personally never used this. I've a recurring problem with my right ear since many years (I'm 34) - it gets clogged and painful every time the weather gets colder. So far, nothing worked - ear drops, antibiotics. My mother told me to try putting warm garlic oil with coconut oil as the base. I didn't take her very seriously but gave it a shot since nothing was working anyway. The pain was gone instantly and the ear is a lot better in just one day. This is really effective home remedy that people must try.
The Butter Half says
Thanks for the comment and for sharing your positive experience, Rohan! The antibacterial properties in the garlic and coconut oil absolutely make a great combination.
Lulu says
Hi there thank you for sharing this! Could you please clarify a few things though? 1. How exactly do you reheat the drops to reuse once refrigerated? Do you microwave them? Pour the entire contents back into the pan? Or, another way? 2. Is it ok if pieces of the minced garlic get into the ear? Thanks again!
The Butter Half says
Great question! I recommend reheating by placing the bottle in a bowl of hot water for a couple minutes, and using a thermometer to test the heat. Or do a drop test on your hand to make sure it's not too hot. Per the instructions, make sure you strain the garlic before transferring to the bottle. You do not want minced garlic pieces getting in the ear.
Kathryn says
I'm totally not an herbalist...but would definitely give these a try because we've had quite the winter of ear infections this past year!
The Butter Half says
They are incredibly easy to make, and it's worth a try if you've exhausted all other options!
Lori says
Abbey I wish I had you when my kids were little! Great info on such a big problem for the wee ones! And it has to feel so soothing to their little ears. I love all the q/a's!
The Butter Half says
It's awesome to have these natural remedies available as a mom! Thanks, Lori!
Sara says
hello! how long will this last for?
The Butter Half says
Hey Sara! I keep these in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. After that, I like to make a new batch. It's in the recipe notes if you need to refer to it in the future. Good luck!
Brittany says
I am curious how you reheat it after it has been refrigerated? I am wanting to try this with my son. He has been on 3 different antibiotics for his ear infections and I still don’t feel like it is going away.
The Butter Half says
Hey Brittany. Yes, I always reheat it so it's warm and soothing. Best of luck!
Jessica says
Hi!
My two year old had tubes put in a week ago and has an ear infection again. I don’t think the antibiotics are clearing the problem. Can you use drops like this if your child has tubes from what you know? I will of course consult his pediatrician.
Thanks,
Jessica
The Butter Half says
Hi Jessica! I personally use these on my son who has had tubes, but I recommend you consult his pediatrician and use your best judgment. Good luck!
Janequiltsslowly says
My grandma would make garlic oil & use it to ease earache when I was little. I am 60 years old. She also made a lemon honey garlic mixture for coughs. We have forgotten so much that we knew about caring for ourselves because of big pharma.
The Butter Half says
Amen to that! Hope this inspires you to return to those home remedies. Plants are powerful!