Applying certain essential oils to the ear canal appears to be an effective treatment for ear infections. If toxicity studies confirm the safety of (anti-bacterial) essential oil components for use in the ear, then a significant advance can be made in the treatment of ear infections. The vapours that are released by essential oils, such as oil of basil, have been shown to have rapid bacteria-killing effects. Topical therapy for ear infections is usually not recommended because most drugs are in a liquid form that cannot penetrate the eardrum to reach the infected middle ear. However, the vapours from essential oils may be able to diffuse through the eardrum and destroy the microbes present. To investigate, researchers form the Landspitali University Hospital in Reykjavik, Iceland, tested oil of basil, various essential oil components, and inactive placebo on rats with experimental ear infections. It was found that treatment with the oils cured up to 81 percent of the animals. With placebo, by contrast, cure rates did not exceed 6 percent. The team noted that, based on their properties, essential oils may be able to destroy a variety of bacteria that can cause ear infections. They also point out that essential oils are generally considered to be safe.
Journal of Infectious Diseases,
June 2005