Earache

Treating an Uncomplicated Earache with Pulsatilla

A 3-year-old child develops an earache after playing outside in the lake in the summer on a cooler, windy day. The family was away at their cottage. This was a 3^rd child, and the family had a homeopathic first aid kit. They were fairly seasoned in their experience with homeopathy. The child is clingy, seeking comfort, and prefers being held by her mother. The earache is worse in the evening, especially when lying down. The child has no fever but is slightly fussy and has a mild discharge from her nose. The discharge is a thick white. The parents are quick to respond as they have learned to look for the early signs and act fast. Once symptoms progress it can get more layered and complicated. Prevention is best but fast acting can be very profound.

Because they are suspicious it’s an earache they reach out to their Homeopath for guidance. After a thorough homeopathic assessment, the practitioner recommends Pulsatilla 30C. This remedy is well-suited for earaches that are accompanied by clinginess, weepiness, and symptoms that worsen at night or in warm rooms but improve with fresh air. Additionally, thirstless is keynote symptom of Pulsatilla may be evident. The child is given Pulsatilla 30C, and the parent notices that she begins to settle down and her discomfort eases.

Additional Supportive Measures:

• St. Francis Ear Oil: The parent applies St. Francis Ear Oil to help soothe the ear discomfort. This oil, made with a blend of herbs like mullein and garlic, is a natural support that can provide a calming effect on the ear, complementing the action of the homeopathic remedy.
• Other Remedies Considered:
  • Mercurius solubilis: Considered for earaches with more intense pain, especially if there is a thick, offensive discharge from the ear and the child is irritable or restless. Excessive saliva, night sweats and offensive breath are keynote symptoms of mercurius solubilis. However, this remedy was not selected as the symptoms were milder and more fitting for Pulsatilla.

Complementary Cell Salts:

To further support the child’s recovery, the following cell salts are used:

• Ferrum Phosphoricum 6X: Helpful for the early stages of ear discomfort, particularly when there is redness and a tendency toward inflammation.
• Kali Muriaticum 6X: Supports the resolution of any mucus or discharge that may accompany the earache, promoting a healthy ear environment.
• Silicea 6X: Aids in the gentle expulsion of any ear discharge and strengthens the body’s natural healing processes.

By combining Pulsatilla with supportive measures like St. Francis Ear Oil and cell salts, the child’s earache is managed naturally, with comfort restored and recovery supported. This approach is a gentle way to address uncomplicated ear discomfort in children, ensuring that they receive holistic care tailored to their individual needs.