No. Putting warm mustard oil or any oil into the ear is not advised for ear pain. It can be unsafe and can delay proper care.
fact_checkWhat experts say
- infoEar pain often comes from an ear infection, hard ear wax, or an injury to the ear.12
- infoNo oil or other fluid should be put inside the ear unless a doctor or health worker has prescribed it.12
- infoEar pain should not be treated with home remedies such as hot or cold oil, or with medicines that were not prescribed.1
- infoMost earaches get better on their own, but medical help is needed if it does not improve in 2 to 3 days or if there are other worrying signs.2
- infoPutting oil or other things into the ear is not safe; objects can push wax deeper, damage the eardrum, or cause infection.1
lightbulbWhy people believe it
Warm oil feels soothing, and many families have used it as a traditional remedy for ear pain. So it is easy to believe it will help.
checklistWhat to do
- check_circleDo not put oil or any fluid inside the ear.12
- check_circleYou can put a warm cloth on the ear from outside to ease the pain.2
- check_circleA painkiller that is safe for you can help with the pain; ask a doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.2
- check_circleSee a doctor or health worker if the pain does not get better in 2 to 3 days, or sooner if you are worried.12
emergencySee a doctor if
- errorFluid or pus coming from the ear.12
- errorEar pain lasting more than 2 to 3 days or not improving.2
- errorHigh fever, feeling very unwell, or swelling around the ear.2
- errorHearing loss or a change in hearing.12
- errorSomething stuck in the ear, or a child under 2 with pain in both ears.12