Can herbs help with hearing loss?

Heather Vuchinich is a writer, astrologer and herbalist with more than 25 years experience in holistic healing. She has been certified as a Master Astrologer by Steven Forrest and has a MA from the Hutchins School at Sonoma State University with a focus on Environmental Psychology. She is currently attending the renowned California School of Herbal Studies to become a certified herbal practitioner. Advice in this post should not replace that of your medical physician. 

Anyone living with a hearing loss knows that it can be isolating. I have a profound hearing loss and minimal sign language skills. As a result, there have been many times over the years when I’ve felt lost and alone. The one relationship I have always been able to depend on is the one I have with nature.

Mother Earth speaks a language that anyone can hear. From my experience, she also has herbs for hearing loss that can be helpful.

Medicinal Herbs for Hearing Loss

From the beauty and hope of flowers to the mysterious underground network of roots and mycelia, the plant kingdom has much to teach us. If I was to assign a hierarchy to the world of plants, medicinal herbs would be superheroes like Superman and his alter ego Clark Kent. Many of these herbs are ordinary, nondescript “weeds.” In the right conditions, they can transform into lifesaving heroes who help us to survive in difficult environments. There are herbs for hearing loss that can heal and soothe a variety of conditions.

Therefore, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite Herbal Hearing Loss Superhero/ines. Their specific applications for hearing loss and related conditions are emphasized.

Read more: How to create a holistic hearing loss health plan

Gingko (Gingko biloba)

There are numerous research studies demonstrating gingko’s ability to alleviate tinnitus, vertigo, and in some cases, hearing loss. Gingko has been shown to improve circulation and blood supply, particularly in the brain.

In one study, Ginkgo bilboa extract used as a replacement for standard alpha blocker (nicergoline), saw significant recovery in therapeutic groups with acute cochlear deafness.

The use of gingko has been documented in traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, and it has few side effects. However, its use in the Western medical system is relatively recent. It is most effective in dosages ranging from 120-240 mg a day (divided) of a standardized extract.

Chamomile Matricaria chamomillia

This familiar member of the daisy family is one of the most comforting, soothing and healing plants available in the herbal medicine chest. Many people know of chamomile as a sleep and digestive aid. Its affinity for ear issues is not as well known.

According to a study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the dried flowers of chamomile contain many terpenoids and flavonoids contributing to its medicinal properties. Chamomile can be particularly effective when used to treat earaches and tinnitus, using a decoction of the flowers in water.

“Chamomile is particularly effective when used to treat earaches and tinnitus, using a decoction of the flowers in water.”

The recipe is as follows: Bring three cups of water to a simmer in an herbal ceramic pot or any other teapot with a long spout. Add two tablespoons of chamomile flower. Turn off the heat and coat the outside of the ear with unpetroleum or a similar product. Then, sit near the pot so that the steam from the spout is directed into the ear canal. If at any time the steam feels too hot or uncomfortable, move the spout farther away from the ear or stop treatment. This can be done twice a day to relieve discomfort from earaches and tinnitus.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John’s Wort’s most well-known superpower is its anti-depressive actions. This yellow-flowered plant also has an affinity with hearing health.

Extracts of the plant have been used for centuries in efforts to treat mental disorders as well as nerve pain, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health.

St. John’s Wort may also ease ear infections, tinnitus, and inflammation of the nervous system, which may be affecting the ears. Consider using St. John’s Wort’s oil topically in the ears or internally as a tincture. If you are experiencing depression related to your hearing loss, St. John’s Wort may also be a good choice. It is known as an “non ototoxic” anti-depressant. This means that unlike some pharmaceutical anti-depressants on the market, St. John’s Wort will not damage your hearing.

Read more: How depression and hearing loss are connected

Note: St. John’s Wort is contraindicated if you are pregnant, nursing, have manic type depression, or are currently on certain types of pharmaceutical anti-depressant medication. Check with your doctor or naturopath to make sure that this is the right choice for you.

“Sweet Tea,” Bee Balm or “Wild Bergamot” Monarda fistulosa

Long used by the indigenous tribes of the Americas, wild bergamot is a member of the mint family with many names and as many uses. Matthew Wood, a celebrated herbalist, has successfully used bee balm to treat Meniere’s Disease and tinnitus. Also, he used it with many other nervous system and immune system maladies. Sweet tea has the ability to move stuck energy and catalyze new growth. This special plant is calming and energizing at the same time. It has the ability to calm anxiety and lift the mood. Wood recommends using a very small dosage of the tincture (1 to 3 drops per day) for best results.

Have you tried any of these herbs for hearing loss-related conditions? Let us know if they help!

The information provided through this website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Hearing Like Me website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency medical services immediately.

• Author Details

Author Details

Heather Vuchinich

Heather Vuchinich is a writer, astrologer and herbalist with more than 25 years experience in holistic healing. She has been certified as a Master Astrologer by Steven Forrest and has a MA from the Hutchins School at Sonoma State University with a focus on Environmental Psychology. She is currently attending the renowned California School of Herbal Studies to become a certified herbal practitioner. She has a bi-lateral severe to profound hearing loss from birth and has been wearing hearing aids since she was 11.