Before the invention of synthetic antibiotics and mineral-oil-based drops, the “old practice” involved using Garlic and Mullein steeped in a stable, traditional fat. This was often Ghee (clarified butter) or Tallow, as they were known to be “kind to the skin” and possessed a low moisture content that prevented bacterial growth.
The practice involved a “double-warmth” technique: the fat was infused with herbs, and then a small amount of raw honey was added to the mixture. The honey acted as a “magnetic” drawing agent, pulling fluid and “dampness” out of the ear canal while the garlic “disinfected the air.”
The Benefits
- Antimicrobial Depth: Garlic contains allicin, while raw honey contains glucose oxidase; together, they create a natural environment where harmful bacteria cannot thrive.
- Tissue Soothing: Mullein flowers are a traditional “anodyne” (painkiller) for the delicate membranes of the ear.
- Safe Delivery: Because the fat is biologically similar to the body’s natural oils, it carries the medicine without causing the “clogging” sensation associated with industrial vegetable oils.
The Remedy: The Golden Garlic & Honey Ear-Oil
A traditional warming relief for ear discomfort, free of refined sugars and industrial oils.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Grass-fed Ghee or Tallow (the stable, traditional fat)
- 1 tsp Raw Honey
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp Dried Mullein flowers (if available, for pain relief)
- A small piece of clean Cotton wool
Instructions
- The Fat Infusion: In a small glass bowl set over a pot of steaming water (the double-boiler method), melt your ghee or tallow.
- The Maceration: Add the minced garlic and the mullein flowers. Keep the heat very low—you do not want to “fry” the garlic, you only want to “sweat” the juices into the fat. Let this sit for 30 to 45 minutes.
- The Fine Strain: Strain the mixture through a very fine linen cloth or several layers of cheesecloth. It is vital that no pieces of garlic or herb remain in the liquid.
- The Honey Binding: While the oil is still warm (but not hot to the touch), whisk in the raw honey. Whisk until the honey is completely suspended in the fat.
- The Temperature Check: Before use, you must test the temperature on your inner wrist. It should be “blood-warm”—soothingly warm but never hot.
- The Application: Historically, a small piece of cotton wool was dipped into the warm mixture and placed gently at the opening of the ear (never pushed deep). Alternatively, one or two drops were applied to the ear canal while the patient lay on their side.
