6 Natural Cures for Blocked Ears and What to Try if They Fail

Blocked ears can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and even affect your hearing and balance. Whether it’s due to a cold, earwax build-up, allergies, or pressure changes, many people seek natural cures for blocked ears before turning to medical intervention. At Junction Pharmacy, we understand how disruptive blocked ears can be, and we’re here to help you find relief.

In this article, we’ll explore six natural remedies that may help ease the sensation of fullness or pressure in your ears, as well as when to seek professional treatment like earwax removal if these methods don’t do the trick.

1. Steam Inhalation

One of the most accessible remedies for blocked ears caused by congestion or a recent cold is steam inhalation. Inhaling warm, moist air can help thin mucus in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, easing pressure behind the ears.

How to try it:

• –> Boil a kettle and pour hot water into a bowl

• –> Lean over the bowl, drape a towel over your head, and inhale the steam for 10–15 minutes

• –> You can add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for added benefit

This method is particularly useful if your ear blockage is related to sinus congestion or a lingering upper respiratory infection.

2. Warm Compress

A warm compress applied over the affected ear can encourage drainage and improve circulation in the area, which may help open the Eustachian tubes or soften impacted earwax.

How to try it:

• –> Soak a clean flannel in warm water and wring it out

• –> Hold the cloth against the blocked ear for 5–10 minutes

• –> Repeat a few times a day as needed

This method is gentle and often soothing, especially if ear discomfort is accompanied by tension or jaw pain.

3. Swallowing and Yawning Techniques

If your ears are blocked due to changes in pressure (such as after flying or driving at high altitude), simple movements like swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalise pressure.

Another technique you can try is the Valsalva manoeuvre:

• –> Pinch your nose shut, close your mouth, and gently blow as if you’re trying to exhale through your nose

• –> This can sometimes ‘pop’ the ears and restore normal pressure

• –> Avoid forceful blowing, which could damage the ear

These are ideal for temporary pressure-related blockages.

4. Natural Ear Drops 

If your blocked ear is due to earwax, natural oils may help soften the wax so it clears on its own or is easier to remove.

How to try it:

• –> Warm a few drops of olive oil (never hot) and place them in the affected ear using a dropper while lying on your side

• –> Stay in that position for 5–10 minutes

• –> Repeat twice daily for up to five days

Some people also use garlic oil, known for its mild antibacterial properties. Be cautious with any home remedy involving oils – if you suspect an infection, avoid putting anything in the ear without medical advice.

5. Hydration and Saltwater Nasal Rinse

Dehydration can contribute to thickened mucus, which may worsen sinus-related ear blockages. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially if you’re feeling under the weather.

A saline nasal rinse can also help:

• –> Use a saline spray or neti pot to flush the nasal passages

• –> This can reduce sinus pressure that may be contributing to blocked ears

This approach is particularly helpful if you suffer from allergies or sinus congestion.

6. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can prevent fluid from building up in the ear overnight, especially if you’re dealing with a cold or sinus infection.

Try sleeping with an extra pillow or propping the head of your bed slightly. This can encourage better drainage and reduce the pressure you feel in the ears in the morning.

What to Try If Natural Cures Don’t Work

If you’ve tried these natural cures for blocked ears without success, it may be time to seek professional help. At Junction Pharmacy, we offer earwax removal services using safe, modern techniques like microsuction or irrigation.

Microsuction is a quick and highly effective procedure performed by trained professionals. It involves using a gentle suction device to remove built-up wax without introducing water into the ear. It’s ideal for people with narrow ear canals, hearing aids, or a history of ear infections.

Our earwax removal service includes:

• –> A consultation to assess your symptoms

• –> Examination using a video otoscope

• –> Fast, clean removal with minimal discomfort

• –> Advice on future ear care and prevention

We recommend professional earwax removal over DIY methods such as cotton buds or candle treatments, which can damage the ear canal or push wax deeper.

Get a Professional Ear Assessment

Blocked ears can be irritating and affect your daily life, but there are several natural remedies that can offer relief. Whether it’s steam, oil drops, or pressure equalisation techniques, starting with gentle at-home methods is a sensible first step.

If your symptoms persist, become painful, or start affecting your hearing, don’t wait – visit Junction Pharmacy for a professional assessment. Our expert team will help you get to the root of the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Book your earwax removal appointment today or speak to one of our pharmacists for friendly, expert advice.

This blog was written on behalf of Junction Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.