Babies are very tender and also sensitive to their surroundings and thus, they are vulnerable to diseases and infections around, more easily. An ear infection is one such infection that is common in kids and is generally known to follow a cold or other ENT issues.
The primary cause of ear infection is a virus or bacteria. Ears make fluid all the time; this fluid builds up behind the eardrum and gets infected. It starts accumulating there making a life form of bacteria. Such bacteria lead to inflammation of the middle area of the ear.
There are many other causes of ear infections in babies, such as:
- Horizontal angled placement of the Eustachian tube, as it is still in the development phase
- Different kinds of food allergies
- Gut infections
- A wrongly aligned head or neck portion
10 Best Infant Ear Infection Natural Remedies
Below are some natural ear infection remedies for babies that you can do within the comfort of your home.
1. Garlic/Mullein Drops
Garlic is found to be very effective in killing bacteria than antibiotics, and when garlic is accompanied with mullein, it forms the best baby ear pain home remedy. Garlic is known for its immunity providing capabilities and mullein for its ability to ease the pain. Put 2-3 drops of garlic and mullein oil in your baby’s ear and repeat it 3 times a day for faster relief.
2. Fluids
Fluids also help in treating ear infections in babies. If your baby is still in the breastfeeding stage, consider feeding him more often than usual, as antibodies present in breast milk can prevent your baby from an ear infection.
3. Hot Compress
Hot compresses on the outer portion of the ear can help relieve ear pain due to an ear infection. A hot water bottle, a heating pack, or even a cloth dipped in hot water can be gently applied on to your infant’s ear to make the pain go away. Though, one should be careful regarding the temperature of the water or the pack before applying it, as babies have sensitive skin.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix warm water and peroxide equally. Put 2-3 drops in your ear and let it rest for 15 seconds. Later, tilt your kid’s head to help the liquid drain away. Repeat the procedure twice a day for best results.
5. Massage
Massage is another easy and convenient option to assure normal circulation and fluid drainage from a baby’s ears. Gently massage your baby’s external ear area or their neck in the downward direction and give inward pressure from the back of the area towards the front area of their cheek. Repeat massaging at least twice a day using essential oils such as rosemary, lavender, tea tree or even the eucalyptus oil.
6. Baking Soda Rinse
Rinsing your child’s ear with baking soda can treat a prevalent ear infection. Mix a few drops of baking soda in water and spray the liquid on the ear’s surface with the help of a syringe. After rinsing it with baking soda, put some drops of essential oil into the ear, such as garlic or lavender oil.
7. Echinacea and Goldenseal
Echinacea and goldenseal are two herbs that greatly help in preventing and fighting ear infections. 2ml of the mixture of these herbs is recommended for children, at least 3 times a day for treating ear infections and building immunity.
8. Chamomile Oil to Wash the Infected Ear
Chamomile oil is a good option for treating ear infection in babies. Put 2-3 drops of chamomile oil into the ear using a dropper and let it settle for about 5-10 minutes. After that tilt the child’s head and let the oil drain out.
9. Onions and Garlic
Onions have antibacterial properties and are also said to provide pain relief and even promotes circulation. Chop the onion and microwave it to make it hot and soft. Once the onion is hot, wrap it in a cloth and place it gently on the child’s ear for 10-15 minutes. Repeat the process, and if the pain doesn’t seem to go away, put 2-3 drops of warm garlic oil using a dropper into the ear for better relief.
10. Elevating the Head
Elevating the baby’s head while he is lying down or sleeping ensures proper sinus drainage. Place one or two pillows under the mattress, so your baby can sleep comfortably.
When to Consult a Doctor
Home remedies can help treat mild ear infections in babies, but it is essential that you keep a watch out for any severe symptoms that require medical treatment. Consult your doctor if your baby:
- Has a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
- Experiences nausea or vomiting
- Has pus discharge or bleeding in the ears
- Is in extreme pain for a long time.
- Has diarrhoea
- Has difficulty hearing for more than 2 days
The listed home remedies for ear infection in babies will help him fight the infection and provide relief to a great extent. In case the problem continues, consider consulting a doctor for further medical assistance.
Also Read:
Causes & Symptoms of Ear Infection in Babies
How to Clean Baby Ears – Useful Home Remedies
