Body SOS Hopi

Thermo Auricular Therapy (Hopi Ear candle) is a relaxing clearing therapy for the ear and head area and is particularly helpful for sinus and ear problems along with tension related conditions, such as migraine. It is a deeply relaxing therapy and has a calming effect so it is beneficial for stress related conditions.

Questions on the following are answered below - What is involved, How do the candles work, What is the treatment good for, What are the benefits, Any side effects.

Both ears are normally treated and this is followed by a relaxing ear and facial head massage which aids lymphatic drainage, eases sinus pain and tension in the head. Hopi Ear Candles can effectively help with:

N.B. This therapy is suitable for all ages but is not recommended if you have a current ear infection, ear grommets, or have had a perforated eardrum within the last 6 months.

Quite different from conventional wax candles, a Hopi ear candle is actually a cotton tube, impregnated with beeswax, honey and therapeutic oils, that is painlessly inserted into the ear to draw out impurities, relieve pressure in the head and sinuses, and aid hearing problems.

The candles are made from natural ingredients that include Sage, St John’s wort, Chamomile and honey. Otherwise known as thermo-auricular therapy, the original source of the technique seems to be from medical ceremonies performed by a native American Indian tribe called Hopi (meaning ‘peaceful people’).

What does it involve?
Clients are usually advised to remove jewellery before the treatment starts. Fully dressed the client lies down on their side, with their head supported on a pillow so the auditory canal is vertical. The candle is then lit and the non-burning end is placed gently into the outer ear passage and is turned lightly to seal it in place.

The candle then generates a pleasant crackling sound and a warm, comfortable feeling while it draws out the impurities from the ear. A massage around the ear is undertaken before the second ear is treated. This is followed by a period of relaxation, with a facial massage concentrating on the sinus areas.

How does it work?
When lit, the ear candle generates a gentle heat which, when combined with the therapeutic oils, produces a light suction action. This is known as the chimney effect, and works by drawing impurities gently to the surface, where they can be removed.

Most deposits evaporate and are carried away through the candle ‘chimney’. None of the candles residue actually goes into the ear.

What is it good for?
Users of Hopi ear candles have reported success in treating balance and inner ear problems, build up of wax, ringing in the ears, tinnitus, hearing difficulties and sinus problems, as well as colds, ‘flu, sore throats, stress, headaches and migraines.

What are the benefits?
Many clients find the treatment relaxing. As well as the relieved feeling that comes from reduced pressure in the ears and sinuses, clients may experience a general calming effect.

What are the side effects and when should it be avoided?
Hopi ear candles should not be used if there is any inflammation or infection in the ear and are not suitable for people who have had recent ear surgery, or those with ear grommets or tubes, perforated ear drums, or allergies to any of the products in the candle.

Anyone who is receiving medical treatment for any ear condition should always consult their doctor first. Some clients may experience headaches or light popping in the ears after treatment.

Thermo-Auricular Therapy (Hopi Earcandle)