How to treat ear infections naturally with apple cider vinegar

Ear infections occur as a result of an overgrowth of infectious bacteria or viruses. The infection can happen in the inner, middle or outer part of the ear and cause symptoms like ear pain, hearing problems, headache, ear discharge and constant tugging at an ear. Though ear infections often clear up on their own, severe cases may require antibiotics.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) offers a potent alternative to antibiotics for treating ear infections. Research shows that this vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can help eliminate bacteria. In a 2018 study, scientists applied ACV to two species of bacteria that commonly cause ear infections: Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. They found that ACV inhibited the growth of both microbes.

The researchers also exposed bacterial cultures mixed with immune cells to ACV. They found that the cells showed fewer signs of inflammation, indicating that ACV can reduce the severity of certain bacterial infections. The researchers said that the acetic acid in ACV may be responsible for its antimicrobial effects. Previous studies showed that acetic acid can damage the cell walls of microbes.

How to use apple cider vinegar for ear infections

Undiluted ACV can damage the skin of the ear, so it’s important to mix it with equal parts of water. If the infection is in the inner or middle ear, avoid using ACV ear drops until you’ve consulted a healthcare professional. Ear drops are also unsafe for people with ear discharge as the mixture may aggravate their condition.

Stop using the drops if irritation occurs or if you experience any of the following:

• Fever
• Fluids like pus and blood leaking from the ear
• Symptoms of a middle ear infection that last more than 3 days
• Hearing loss