Early Evidence

• Ancient paintings, such as those found at the Grand Canyon, show the use of ear candles in Hopi ceremonies and rituals. Although many of the early uses of ear candles were ceremonial, they developed into a therapeutic treatment as time passed. Ear candles were originally conical, a practice stopped in recent times for safety.
  
  

Traditional Uses

• Ear candles were used by shamans as part of various initiation rituals and healing rites. Candles were probably made specifically for each ritual, with particular ingredients selected for either healing effect or religions meaning. Aside from the bees wax of the candles, likely ingredients could include sage or honey. Greenthread is a traditional Hopi herb that might have been used in ear candles.
  
  

Ingredients

• Originally, Hopi ear candles contained a variety of ingredients that would vary depending on the ceremony being performed. Modern ear candles almost always contain the same ingredients. In addition to the beeswax base, ingredients include honey extracts, sage, St. John's wort, chamomile or beta-carotene. Some candles contain flax.
  
  

Application

• Ear candles are hollow. As they burn, they create a vacuum that draws impurities to the surface. As they burn, the candles equalize the pressure of the head and ears. Secretions of impurities in the ears are carried away through the hollow chimney of the candle.
  
  

Treatment of Modern Conditions

• Although they are beneficial for a number of conditions, they are often especially good for the treatment of excessive or compacted ear wax, sinus and ear irritation, headaches and discomfort caused by pressure in the ears, tinnitus, and for general relaxation and calming.