Around this time of year, I often write about different ways to tackle colds and flu, but today I want to share a gentle, natural technique that makes a fantastic addition to the mix: ear candling.

Now, I can almost hear you asking, what on earth is ear candling!?

Believed to have originated with Native American traditions, ear candles look a bit like thick, wax-covered drinking straws. They’re usually crafted from a blend of woven cotton, beeswax, honey extracts, and sage oil, and they act as a wonderfully soothing clearance device for the ear and head area.

With so many people suffering from head colds and congested sinuses this season, ear candles are always in high demand. They work wonders for clearing blocked ears and sinuses, but they're also great for easing earaches, swimmer’s ear, general hearing, or stubborn wax build-up. Because the gentle warmth stimulates local blood circulation, some people even find it helps soothe tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. They’re also a lifesaver for relieving that uncomfortable pressure in your ears after flying, deep-sea diving, or dealing with altitude changes.

So, how exactly does it work? The process is surprisingly simple, though you will definitely need a friend to help you out. You just lie comfortably on your side while your friend places the lit candle gently into the outer ear. It burns down to a safety line over about ten minutes before being removed.

The candle acts much like a chimney. As it burns, the heat creates a mild vacuum that gently draws excess wax up into the centre of the hollow candle. On top of that, the gentle flicker and vibration of the air column inside acts like a tiny, gentle massage for your eardrum, helping to balance out pressure.

It really is a safe and easy routine almost any adult can do at home, but there is one major exception to keep in mind: you should never use ear candles if you currently have an acute ear infection or a perforated eardrum.

For more information about ear candling, drop into Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North Street, Batemans Bay. You can also call us on (02) 4472 9737 or visit us online at www.govitabatemansbay.com.au. Don’t miss our weekly segment on 2EC radio, where Marianne and Go Vita’s Nutritionist Sofia chat about health and wellness with Kimmi Saker every Wednesday after 12.30pm.