Many of you might not have heard the name of tinnitus ever. Tinnitus is a problem, which affects the ears of a person. In this, a person feels a ringing sensation in the ear continuously. Along with ringing, other sensations like hissing, clicking, buzzing or roaring sounds can also be felt. The worst part is that these sounds can be heard by the patient, even when there are no external sounds or noise. The intensity of the ringing sound of tinnitus can be extremely soft or very loud; it can be low-pitched as well as high-pitched. Infact for some people, the tinnitus problem is in one ear only, while for others it is in both the ears. People who suffer from severe and acute tinnitus might develop problems with hearing, sleeping and even working.
You might not know, but tinnitus in itself is not any kind of ailment. It is a symptom that there is some issue in the auditory system. The auditory system comprises of the ear, the auditory nerve and some parts of the brain which process sound. There are many conditions that might cause tinnitus. Noise-induced hearing loss is probably the most common cause of all. The saddest thing is that there is no cure for the problem of tinnitus. The problem can be severe or mild, persistent or temporary and instant or gradual. The main aim of the treatment of tinnitus is managing the perception of a sound that keeps on ringing in the ears and head. There are some treatments that can help in minimizing the perceived intensity of tinnitus. Though the perceived sound cannot be eliminated completely, the treatment modes can help in decreasing the uncomfortable quotient and improve the general quality of life.
Sonus Complete is an excellent supplement available in the form of capsules, which has shown to have brilliant results for the problem of tinnitus. There are many more such supplements available in the market. Along with these, there are also different kinds of home remedies, which can help in combating the problem of tinnitus to quite an extent. Mentioned below are 10 such remedies, which are extremely effective for the problem.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
This natural ingredient helps in combating any underlying infections, which are aggravating the problem of tinnitus. ACV abounds in antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties (1). Take 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and add the same to a glass of water. You can also add honey to this if you want. Mix all the ingredients well. Now drink this solution two to three times a day for quick results. Apple cider vinegar is readily available in the market and is affordable as well.
2. Combination of Salt and Glycerin
We know that the ear, nose, and throat are connected to one another. The combination of salt and glycerin helps in making a solution that is saline in nature. The blocked nasal passage is decongested with the help of this solution (2). Interestingly, with the congestion of the nasal passage gone, the sensation of ringing ears is relieved to a great extent. Usually, when fluids get deposited in the sinuses, there is nasal passage blockage. For making the solution, you will need 1 teaspoon each of glycerin and salt and a pint of water. Add the salt and glycerin to the water and mix well. Now pour this solution to a spray bottle. Everyday sprays the nostrils with this solution. This must be done minimum thrice daily.
3. Mistletoe Tea
One of the main reasons for tinnitus is high blood pressure. Mistletoe not only helps in lowering the blood pressure, but it also plays a pivotal role in improving blood circulation in the body. With better blood circulation, nutrients, as well as oxygen, reach different parts of the body and the ears. For relieving symptoms of tinnitus, mistletoe tea proves to be very effective (3). You will need 3 teaspoons of mistletoe and 3 cups of water. You can also use honey. The mistletoe is to be added to water and it should be allowed to steep overnight. Strain the liquid and drink it the next day as many times as possible. For additional taste and flavor, add honey.
4. Pineapple
Pineapples abound in an enzyme called bromelain. They are also rich in vitamins A and C. Both the vitamins and the enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties, which alleviates symptoms of inflammation caused due to tinnitus (4). Peel a pineapple takes about ¼ part of it. Now cut it into small pieces. Blend the pieces with a glass of water. All throughout the day, sip on this water. You can also chew on these small pieces of pineapple from time to time. However, refrain from consuming too much of pineapple as it might trigger allergic reactions in the body.
5. Ginkgo Biloba
Also known as maidenhair tree, Ginkgo Biloba has antifungal and antibacterial properties. These help in keeping all kinds of infections at bay which might cause tinnitus. The ringing sensation in the ears is reduced by this ingredient and ear functions are also improved (5). 120mg Ginkgo Biloba supplements are available in the market. You have to take 1 supplement each twice a day for the best results. This has to be continued for 6 weeks.
6. Castor Oil
The scientific name of castor oil is Ricinus communis and it is a rich source of vitamin E. Therefore it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties (6). The pain and inflammation caused by tinnitus are managed with this natural ingredient and gradual relief is rendered to a great extent. Put 2 drops of castor oil in the affected ear directly and use a cotton ball for plugging the ear so that the oil doesn’t come out. This should be done twice daily for good results.
7. Ginger
Ginger is an excellent antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent as well. As a result, this natural ingredient can help in relieving the inflammation and pain caused by tinnitus (7). Take a cup of hot water and add freshly grated ginger (about ½ teaspoon) to the same. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Now strain this mixture and drink this tea when it is hot. If you wish, you can add honey to the mixture for added flavors and taste. You must drink this tea a minimum of three times a day for the best results.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antifungal, antibacterial and antioxidant properties and it can fight any infection which can be a cause of tinnitus (8). Warm coconut oil can also lead to loosening of congested earwax, which might be a reason for aggravated ringing in the ears. Take some coconut oil and warm the same in an oven or a pan. See that the oil is not too hot. Now pour 1-2 drops of the warm oil in the affected ear. Leave it like that for some till it gets completely absorbed. You will feel some relief after some time.
9. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are a rich source of copper and magnesium. Magnesium helps in relieving stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus (9, 10). On the other hand, copper can help in strengthening the ear bones. These seeds are excellent natural antioxidants and all these together help in alleviating symptoms of tinnitus. Take 1-2 teaspoons of sunflower seeds and soak the same in a cup of water. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and boil the same. After simmering for 5 minutes, strain the liquid. Add some honey to it and drink the solution while it is warm. Do this two times daily.
10. Yogurt
Yogurt contains various kinds of nutrients including calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B-12, vitamin B-2, etc. Many patients suffering from tinnitus have vitamin B deficiency in different forms. Yogurt is one of the best natural foods for combating this deficiency. Also, yogurt has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces symptoms of tinnitus to a great extent. Include a bowl of yogurt in your daily diet and leverage the benefits of this awesome ingredient (11, 12).
All the ingredients used in the home remedies are completely natural and organic. Hence, there are no risks of any kind of side effects taking place from the same. Also, these ingredients are readily available and quite affordable as well. So anyone and everyone can try these remedies at home for combating the problem of tinnitus. There are also various kinds of therapies which one can try for dealing with the problem of tinnitus successfully.v