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History of Ear Candling

Although the exact location and date of when ear candles were discovered is not known, we know that ear candles have been used since 2500 BC in ancient Egypt. Back then, ear candles were made from flax (a plant by-product) and beeswax due to its availability. Evidence shows that ear candles have been used in all regions of the world, but known to be traditionally used by Mayan, Aztec, and American Indians. Before the polished version of ear candles were made, Indian tribes would blow herbal smoke into the ear through a cone-shaped object. For Indians, ear candling was considered a spiritual process and experience for clearing the mind and senses. Historically, people would use ear candles ritually for physiological and spiritual purification reasons before or during ceremonies. Ancient Greeks used ear candles to cleanse, purify, and promote healing on an emotional and spiritual level. It wasn't until later, after ear candling became more popular, that they were then used for the thought of physical benefits.

This progression brought forth different versions of ear candles, thus changing the name of what ear candles may be called, with one of the most popular names being the Hopi ear candle. Today, beeswax has become less readily available and more expensive. So, in effort to reduce the cost of making ear candles, ear candles are now be made from other types of waxes than beeswax. Ear candles can be made with beeswax, paraffin wax, soy wax, or a combination of the three. However, using an alternative wax other than beeswax has been known to increased the risk of injury. In result, this has given ear candling the reputation of not being safe.

Benefits of Ear Candling

Ear candling has been known to relieve pressure from behind the eardrum, sharpen mental functions like vision, hearing, taste, and color perception, elevate earaches, reduce headaches and sinus pressure, and can assist with reducing allergy symptoms. Ear candling helps with relaxation and can act as a catalyst to clear nerve endings and promote healing.

Beeswax vs Paraffin and Soy Wax

Beeswax candles give off negative ions that actually purify, cleanse, and improve air quality. Paraffin is an artificial petroleum-based product that relies on oils to create candle wax, so when it is burned it essentially pollutes the air with chemicals. Soy wax is a cheap and poor effort to substitute real beeswax. Beeswax burns hotter, slower, and does not drip. Ear candles made from paraffin and soy wax burn faster and carry the risk of hot melting wax dripping into the ear. Beeswax is hypo-allergenic, essentially eliminating the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritations. Since paraffin is a petroleum-based product, the candles made from this wax could contain unknown ingredients and pollutants that could irritate and even harm the user. Beeswax is a natural, eco-friendly, and renewable resource. Paraffin is not all natural and is made from our planet's finite supply of fossil fuels.