If you’re fond of taking a dip at the pool when you’re on your hols you’ll probably be familiar with the type of middle-ear infection that can be caused by swimming.  Middle-ear infections are notoriously common whereas inner-ear infections, caused by upper respiratory tract infections are less so. 

If you do get an ear infection be prepared to go to your GP as the symptoms can be swift and dramatic with nausea, dizziness, vomiting and vertigo typical. 

Other causes of earache are injuries, a foreign body being lodged in the ear canal or pain caused by swollen lymph nodes in the neck during a sore throat.

However there are some Herbal Remedies that can help to ease the symptoms:

Echinacea is one of the first herbs to think of when fighting an infection. It has powerful immune boosting properties. 

Astragalus is often used in Chinese medicine and is one to consider if you have a child who suffers from recurring ear infections.

Oregon Grapefruit contains berberine which acts as a natural antibiotic and kills many types of bacteria.  Other herbs in the berberine group are goldenseal, gold thread or barberry.  

Garlic is a potent herb that has bug killing properties.  It can kill many viruses that cause colds and flu an it is these viruses that make us susceptible to ear infections.