Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Garlic has a long-standing history in traditional medicine for the treatment of ear infections and earaches. Folk remedies have involved the use of garlic oil or crushed garlic cloves, often mixed with a carrier oil, and applied as ear drops. The rationale behind this practice is garlic's natural antimicrobial properties, attributed primarily to the compound allicin. However, the scientific evidence supporting garlic’s effectiveness specifically for ear infections or earaches is limited and mostly anecdotal. While some laboratory studies demonstrate that garlic extracts can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, including pathogens associated with ear infections, there are very few high-quality clinical trials evaluating its safety or efficacy when used as a remedy for ear conditions in humans. Moreover, placing garlic or garlic oil directly in the ear canal carries risks, especially if the eardrum is ruptured, and is not recommended by most medical professionals. In summary, while the use of garlic for ear infections is rooted in traditional medicine and there is some laboratory evidence suggesting antimicrobial activity, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking.

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Products containing Garlic

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