Hopi Ear Candles have been used by Native Americans (especially Hopi
Indians) to achieve a wide range of effects, some of which are therapeutic
in a conventional Western (as opposed to a purely spiritual) way.
However, the traditional Native American Ear Candles differ from those
used in modern Western Hopi Ear Candle Treatments. This is because the
actual 'candles' used in modern therapeutic treatments (see the upper
illustrations to the right of this text) are cylindrical rather than
conical. This is a safety feature as it ensures that no sharp points
can be inserted into clients ears.
Another difference is that the Native Americans use/d these candles
for a variety of purposes - mental, spiritual and physical - hence they
used a wide range of different herbs in the different types of Ear Candles.
By contrast, the modern Ear Candles (top illustration, right) always
include the same ingredients.
Hopi Ear Candle Treatment usually begins with a consultation during
which the practitioner asks the client a series of questions about how
she is feeling, her medical history and why she has requested this treatment.
This is an opportunity for the therapist to ensure that there are no
reasons why it would not be adviseable for the client to have a Hopi
Ear Candle Treament that day (e.g. perforated ear drum/grommets or other
drainage devices in ear/outer ear infected or inflamed/allergies to
the ingredients of the
candles/etc.).
This is also an opportunity for the client to ask any questions he/she
may have about the treatment, make any requests, and understand exactly
what - and what NOT - to expect of the treatment.
Assuming all is well, the therapist will usually then invite the client
to make him/herself comfortable on a therapeutic couch. The client will
be asked to lie on his/her side (adjustments being made for anyone who
is unable to assume the usual position for this treatment e.g. due to
disabilites). This position is so that the first ear is uppermost and
easily accessible to the therapist.
The client may also be covered with a blanket, if required, for warmth
and comfort.
Each ear will be treated in turn. (If one ear is thought to be more
blocked than the other then the 'good' ear is usually treated first.)
After each ear has been treated the therapist will usually invite the
client to lie on his/his back on the couch while the therapist does
give him/her a 20 minute face-massage, to help stimulate the absorption
of the herbs from the candles into the tissues of the sinuses and face.
(All aspects of all treatments are always, of course, optional.)
Following the treatment itself, the therapist may invite the client
to get up slowly when he/she feels ready to do so. It is good practice
for the therapist to ensure that the client is sufficiently alert to
drive home or move onto their next task.
The therapist might also invite feedback about the treatment, show and
discuss with the client the type and extent of ear wax extracted by
the candles, and answer any questions.
Most therapists also usually encourage their clients to drink a glass
of water immediately after the treatment.
