What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus, or a perception of ringing noise in the ears, is a condition that surfaces with age. It usually occurs in individuals aged above 50 years. However, in some cases, children and adolescents are also found to be affected by it. This condition is often a symptom of an underlying health issue such as hearing loss, ear injury, infection, or poor circulation. Tinnitus is estimated to affect 1 out of every 5 people and is quite common in its occurrence (1).
Tinnitus is usually of two types:
Subjective Tinnitus
In this type of tinnitus, the ringing sound can only be heard by the person affected by it. Subjective tinnitus is the most common type of tinnitus and is often caused by an injury to one’s ear.
Objective Tinnitus
When a doctor or anyone other than the affected individual is able to listen to the buzzing or ringing sound, it is the objective kind of tinnitus. Tinnitus could be a result of a number of underlying health issues or physical trauma. Read on to find the most common causes of tinnitus.
Causes Of Tinnitus
Age
The chances of suffering from hearing loss increase after 60 years of age. Hearing loss often triggers the onset of tinnitus.
Smoking
Tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing tinnitus.
Gender
Tinnitus is found to occur more in men than women (2).
Loud Noise
Being exposed to loud noises for a long period has the potential to cause ear damage, and this may subsequently lead to tinnitus.
Otosclerosis
This term is used to define the stiffening of the bone in the middle ear. Otosclerosis has the potential to cause tinnitus in the affected individuals.
Blockage By Earwax
Accumulation of too much earwax may lead to hearing loss and ear irritation. This can also lead to tinnitus.
Medical Conditions
Tinnitus is often a symptom of other medical conditions such as an inner ear disorder like Meniere’s disease, head or neck injuries, blood vessel disorders like atherosclerosis, head and neck tumors, and high blood pressure.
Medications
Tinnitus may also be a side effect of certain medications like antibiotics, cancer medications, diuretics, certain antidepressants, and aspirin. Now that you are well aware of the factors that have the potential to cause tinnitus, let’s take a look at the symptoms associated with this condition.
Signs And Symptoms Of Tinnitus
Some of the common symptoms associated with tinnitus include:
Buzzing, ringing or whistling sound in one or both the ears Sensitivity to certain sounds Hearing problems In some cases, tinnitus may also cause stress, depression, and fatigue.
A permanent cure for tinnitus is yet to be discovered. However, some natural remedies can be used to reduce the severity and impact of this condition. Given below is a list of home remedies that will help you in combating tinnitus and its symptoms.
Home Remedies To Treat Tinnitus
Natural Ways To Get Relief From Tinnitus
1. Glycerin And Salt
1 teaspoon of glycerin 1 teaspoon of salt 1 pint of water
You must do this at least thrice daily. The saline nature of this solution helps in decongesting the blocked nasal passage and this, in turn, can help in relieving the sensation of ringing ears caused by extra fluid in the sinuses (3).
2. Pineapple
Fresh pineapples 1 glass of water
You must do this throughout the day at regular intervals. Pineapples are a rich source of an enzyme called bromelain, along with vitamins A and C. These enzymes and vitamins exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and can thus be used to treat the inflammation caused by tinnitus (4), (5). Do not consume too much of pineapples in a day as they are known to cause allergic reactions when consumed in large quantities.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar 1 glass of water Honey (optional)
Add apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink this solution. Do this twice or thrice a day. Apple cider vinegar can fight any underlying infections that are contributing to tinnitus with its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties (6), (7).
4. Ginkgo Biloba
120 mg Ginkgo Biloba supplement Consume gingko biloba supplement. You must consume this supplement twice daily for 6 weeks. Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help combat any underlying infections that cause tinnitus. It can also reduce the ringing sensation and improve your ear functions by improving the blood circulation throughout your body (8).
5. Comfrey, Cinnamon, And Chamomile Tea
1 tablespoon of comfrey 1 tablespoon of cinnamon 1 tablespoon of chamomile 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
You must drink this tea at least thrice daily. Comfrey, cinnamon, and chamomile are all rich in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant compounds. These can be helpful in alleviating tinnitus and its symptoms (9), (10), (11).
6. Witch Hazel, Goldenseal, And Calendula
1/2 teaspoon of goldenseal 1/2 teaspoon of calendula 1 cup of water Witch hazel Cotton balls
Do this two to three times in a day. The combined anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects of goldenseal, calendula, and witch hazel may be helpful in treating any infections and secretions causing the tinnitus (12), (13), (14).
7. Mistletoe Tea
3 teaspoons of mistletoe 3 cups of water Honey (optional)
You can consume this tea thrice daily for best results. Tinnitus is sometimes also the result of high blood pressure. Mistletoe not only helps to lower the blood pressure but also improves the blood circulation so that more oxygen and nutrients can reach your ears. Thus, mistletoe is also one of the best options to relieve tinnitus symptoms naturally (15).
8. Green Tea
1 green tea bag 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
You must drink green tea at least thrice daily. Green tea is a natural antioxidant and can combat infections and free radicals that are preventing your ringing ears from healing (16), (17).
9. Best Essential Oils
1. Lavender Oil
2 to 3 drops of lavender oil Cotton balls
You must follow this regimen every night for at least two weeks. Lavender oil exhibits antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties that can relieve tinnitus and its symptoms over time (18).
2. Cypress Oil
2 to 3 drops of cypress oil 2 cotton balls
You must do this every night. Cypress oil is a natural sedative and can promote sleep and reduce anxiety in those affected with tinnitus. The antiseptic properties of cypress oil help in treating infections that may be a potential cause of tinnitus, while its antispasmodic nature helps in relaxing the muscles and alleviating the symptoms of ringing ears (19).
3. Juniper Oil
3 drops of juniper oil 2 cotton balls
You must follow this remedy every night for at least two weeks. Like lavender and cypress oils, juniper oil is also an essential oil that can help reduce stress and anxiety caused by tinnitus. And similar to the other two oils, the antiseptic and antispasmodic nature of juniper oil can be helpful in treating tinnitus and its symptoms (20).
10. Castor Oil
1 to 2 drops of castor oil Cotton balls
Do this at least twice daily. Castor oil, scientifically referred to as Ricinus communis, has a high content of vitamin E. It thus exhibits antioxidant properties and is also an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. These properties can help reduce the pain and inflammation caused by tinnitus and render gradual relief (21).
11. Coconut Oil
1 to 2 drops of coconut oil Do this at least twice daily. The antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of coconut oil can help in fighting off any infection in your ears that may be a potential cause of tinnitus. Warmed coconut oil can also help in loosening any congested earwax that may aggravate the ringing in your ears (22).
12. Sesame Oil
1 teaspoon of sesame oil You must do this two to three times daily. Sesame oil is a natural antioxidant. It possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can combat ear infections and free radicals. Thus, sesame oil is a good natural remedy to treat tinnitus and its symptoms (23).
13. Ginger
1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger 1 cup of hot water Honey (optional)
Drink this tea at least thrice daily. Being an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant, ginger can help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by tinnitus (24).
14. Garlic
1 garlic clove 1 teaspoon of mustard oil
Do this once every night. Garlic is rich in a compound called allicin. Allicin is a natural antioxidant and can help eliminate any free radicals that may aggravate tinnitus. Garlic also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can fight off any infections causing tinnitus (25), (26), (27).
15. Onion Juice
1 onion You can do this 3 to 5 times a week for best results. Onions are rich in a compound called quercetin that exhibits antioxidant properties. In addition to this, onions are also known for their antibacterial properties. A combination of these properties of onions can help in treating tinnitus while alleviating its symptoms (28), (29).
16. Fenugreek Seeds
1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
Drink this at least thrice daily. Fenugreek contains linolenic acids that exhibit antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The combined effect of these properties of fenugreek can help relieve the infection and pain associated with tinnitus (30), (31), (32). Pregnant women are advised to stay away from this remedy as fenugreek seeds are known to cause contractions in some cases.
17. Sunflower Seeds
1 to 2 teaspoons of sunflower seeds 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
Do this at least twice daily. Sunflower seeds are rich in magnesium and copper. While magnesium can help relieve the anxiety and stress associated with tinnitus, copper can help strengthen the ear bones. In addition to these, sunflower seeds are also natural antioxidants, and a combination of their properties can help in the treatment of tinnitus (33), (34), (35).
18. Basil Leaves
2 to 3 tablespoons of basil leaves Do this for a week, twice daily. Other than being an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, basil also exhibits strong antibacterial properties that can help in combating the underlying infections that are a probable cause of tinnitus. Basil also acts as an adaptogen and helps to alleviate anxiety and stress caused by tinnitus (36), (37), (38).
19. Wolfberry
1 to 2 teaspoons of wolfberry 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
You must drink this infusion at least once daily. Wolfberry is a Chinese fruit with numerous healing properties. It is rich in many vitamins and minerals that help in improving blood circulation and act as antioxidants to heal tinnitus and its symptoms (39).
20. Yogurt
A bowl of yogurt Include yogurt in your diet. Consume yogurt daily to relieve tinnitus. Yogurt is rich in many nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and vitamins B-2 and B-12. Many individuals suffering from tinnitus are found to be deficient in different forms of vitamin B, and thus, yogurt can be the perfect remedy to restore this deficiency. Also, these nutrients exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can be of great help in the treatment of tinnitus (40), (41).
21. Oregano
1 teaspoon of dried oregano 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
Drink this infusion twice daily. Oregano is a natural antioxidant that also possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help to reduce the inflammation and other symptoms of tinnitus (42), (43), (44).
22. Plantain
1 plantain 1 cup of water
Do this thrice daily for 6 weeks. Plantains are raw bananas with high nutrient content. They are known to lower blood pressure, which is one of the underlying causes of tinnitus. Plantains can also improve blood flow and help in treating tinnitus and its symptoms (45).
23. Passionflower
1 teaspoon of dried passionflowers 1 cup of water Honey (optional)
You must drink this infusion once daily, preferably before going to bed. Passionflower can improve blood flow and is also used in the treatment of many cardiovascular diseases. Tinnitus is itself a symptom of such diseases in some cases. Passionflower can thus help in treating tinnitus while also alleviating anxiety and stress caused by its onset (46).
24. Vitamins
According to a study conducted in 1993, some individuals affected by tinnitus were found to be deficient in vitamin B12 (47). And a restoration of this deficiency was found to improve the condition of the affected individuals. In addition to this vitamin, you can also address other vitamin deficiencies (if any) for your overall health and well-being. However, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor before going ahead and treating tinnitus with vitamin supplements. Instead, you can add foods rich in vitamin B12 such as milk, cheese, and fish to your daily diet (48). Including some of the remedies mentioned here in your daily routine is sure to have a positive impact on your present condition. In addition to these remedies, you can also make some lifestyle changes and take some precautions to increase the effectiveness of your treatment.
Preventive Tips
Follow A Healthy Diet
Avoid intake of salt, sugar, alcohol, caffeine, and fast food. Instead, opt for a healthy diet that consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
Consume Dry Fruits
Include dry fruits like apricots, walnuts, and pistachios in your diet. These are found to treat tinnitus naturally.
Engage In Aerobic Exercises
Engaging in mild to moderate forms of aerobic exercises may help in naturally relieving the symptoms associated with tinnitus. However, you should be careful in your attempts as high-impact aerobics may worsen your condition.
Try Finger Drumming
Finger drumming is observed to relieve the symptoms of tinnitus. All you have to do is wrap your fingers around the back of your neck and place your palms on both your ears. Put your index finger on your middle finger and snap them by applying a little pressure. Repeat this at least 50 times.
Sound Therapy
Some devices and applications provide subtle or ambient sounds that can provide relaxation from tinnitus.
Avoid Consuming Alcohol
Alcohol consumption may worsen your condition if you are suffering from tinnitus.
Quit Smoking
Smokers are prone to developing tinnitus. Thus, you must quit smoking if you are already suffering from this condition.
Get Your Earwax Removed
The accumulation of earwax in your ears can also cause tinnitus. In such an instance, it is recommended to see your physician and get the earwax removed.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a practice that involves inserting needles into certain points of your body. It is done under medical supervision and is found to reduce the symptoms of tinnitus to a great extent.
Try Relaxation Techniques
Meditating and listening to calming soundtracks can help you relax and overcome the symptoms of tinnitus. How to stop ear ringing after a concert (loud music)? If your ears are ringing after a concert, listen to some relaxing soundtracks and try to distract yourself from the ringing noise. Also, de-stress yourself with meditation and avoid alcohol as it may cause the blood to flow into your ears and worsen the ringing. How to stop ear ringing due to cold? The ear ringing that develops due to a cold usually goes away on its own. However, if the ringing is unbearable, it is recommended to drink plenty of clear liquids and take any appropriate decongestant, such as Benadryl, to get relief from the cold. What kind of headphones should be used by people with tinnitus? Sound therapy using noise-canceling headphones can be helpful in decreasing the frequency and period of ringing associated with tinnitus. Does drinking water help treat tinnitus? Possibly. Anecdotal evidence suggests that staying hydrated may help balance the body’s fluid levels and soothe tinnitus. However, more research is needed in this regard. Does lemon juice help treat tinnitus? Possibly. The flavonoids in lemon juice may help relieve tinnitus and vertigo (49). Is turmeric good for tinnitus? Possibly. Anecdotal evidence suggests that turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe tinnitus. Can pillows cause tinnitus? Possibly. Using pillows may cause tinnitus as your neck muscles may spasm due to improper bending or torsion.
