Dr. Arthur Zinaman
Recently I’ve been reading about people throughout the U.S. using homeopathic means to cure, just about anything! Oils, herbs, flowers, creams, a virtual supermarket full of ‘treatments’ in a bottle. One article caught my attention which claims for hearing loss cure was touted. A cure for hearing loss?! Wait, let me get to a phone, I’ve got a whole list of patients I promised to call when a cure was made available.
Hold it, not so fast. The homeopaths hold that certain herbs contain elements that help prevent and reduce the progression of hearing loss. It has been shown that homeopathic means are not effective for treating any condition much less, hearing loss. Several studies have definitively found homeopathy to be no more effective than a placebo
Are there any benefits using homeopathic remedies? People who partake in this pseudo-science believe I it. I became curious (and a bit mischievous) and decided to find out for myself. They claim that 4 herbs and some oils work for hearing loss. Disclaimer: Do not ingest anything listed in this blog without your physician’s knowledge and approval.
Echinacea is a popular herb which is believed to boost the immune system and counter “other bizarre infections that could lead to hearing loss.” Additionally, it fights off other viruses and germs “that can cause inner ear infections.” Hmm… I wonder if one would contract a bizarre infection, would you also have bizarre symptoms?
Ginger is a common ingredient in Indian and Asian foods. It is also known as a natural (home) remedy. To the homeopath, ginger activates nerves that improves sound transmission to the brain. As John Travolta’s character in Pulp Fiction said, “that’s a bold statement.”
Turmeric can be used medicinally? The claim here is that it’s rich in potassium facilitating healthy ear functioning. Ok, but how much turmeric can you stomach? I’m laughing out loud, maybe it will be good with the ginger!
Ginkgo is an herb that boasts increased blood platelet production, improved blood circulation, and tinnitus relief whereas it “knocks down the hearing problem with a single punch.” Well, I suggest that you don’t hold your breath waiting for results.
Essential oils. Okay, I’ll admit, I don’t get it. Essential Oils? Are there Un-Essential oils? And if so, are they good for anything at all?
Eucalyptus and Lavender may assist in reducing allergy symptoms which contribute to fluid in the middle ear causing “a muffled feeling.” Pediatricians prescribing lavender to kids with ear infections??!! I haven’t heard about that yet, have you?
I’ve found absolutely no research, no studies, no essays, and no articles, that support the idea of sensorineural hearing loss being reversed or treated with oil (oops, sorry.., essential oils) or herbs.
My opinion of homeopathy treatment for hearing loss is peppered all over this blog. But, don’t only go by me because it seems some part of the population is receptive to this particular type of healthcare. Needless to say, consult your doctor if any of these homeopathic treatments interests you. To that I say, “to each his own.”
