How to Make a Garlic Poultice for Ear Pain or Infections

Garlic is a powerful natural remedy known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. When used as a poultice, it can help relieve pain and support healing by drawing out toxins and thinning mucus. Here’s how you can easily make a garlic poultice at home.

What You’ll Need

• 1–2 cloves of fresh garlic
• A small piece of clean cloth or gauze (a cotton handkerchief works well)
• A spoon or garlic press
• A small bowl
• A bit of olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for sensitive skin)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic

• Peel 1–2 cloves of garlic.
• Crush the garlic using a garlic press or the back of a spoon until it forms a paste. Crushing activates the allicin, garlic’s powerful healing compound.

2. Wrap the Garlic

• Place the crushed garlic in the center of your cloth or gauze.
• Fold the cloth to create a small bundle, ensuring the garlic stays inside but can release its juices.

3. Add Oil (Optional)

• If the person has sensitive skin, you can dab a bit of olive oil or coconut oil behind their ear to create a barrier.

4. Warm the Poultice

• Warm the garlic in a pan or gently warm it over a cup of hot water. You can also run the cloth under hot water before you add the garlic. It should feel warm but not hot to the touch.

5. Apply the Poultice

• Place the warm poultice just behind or over the ear—not inside it. The warmth and garlic fumes will penetrate the skin and provide relief.
• Leave it in place for 10–15 minutes, rewarming as needed.

Important Tips

• Monitor for Skin Sensitivity: Garlic is strong and can irritate the skin if left on too long. Check the skin periodically and remove the poultice if there’s redness or discomfort.
• Frequency: Use the poultice 2–3 times a day for best results.
• Do Not Apply Directly to an Open Wound: Garlic should only be used externally unless prepared specifically for internal remedies.

Why It Works

Garlic releases natural compounds that fight infection and reduce inflammation. The gentle warmth of the poultice helps thin mucus, ease pain, and improve circulation to the affected area. Here is how I treat ear infections at home.

This simple, effective remedy is a great addition to your natural medicine cabinet. Garlic has been used for centuries, and with this poultice, you can harness its healing power to support your family’s health.