Jean:  I'm responding to the list because several others wanted to know the
same thing that you asked ( I hope you don't mind).

RE:> <I often recommend a substitute though...have you tried using Kyolic
> deodorized garlic drops in the ear and covered with cotton? >
>
> Chris,
>
> Please explain how an essentially topical (touching the eardrum and outer
> ear canal) application could effect a middle ear infection. Would it
> really be absorbed directly across the drum and get into the middle ear
> versus eventually getting there via absorbtion ito the circulation?????
> Just cueious.
> Jean
I know this is hard to grasp, but if you'll stick with me I can give you at
least a clue...if you use the garlic in your ear, I guarantee that you will
soon be tasting it in your mouth.  How it gets there, I'm not exactly sure,
but it does.  I believe that is how the sulfur and other antimicrobial
agents have their impact.  When I worked in women's health clinics back in
the early 1980s we used to tell women with vaginal infections who either
didn't have money for antibiotics or who wanted to avoid them to use a clove
of peeled garlic wrapped in gauze as a vaginal suppository.  After a few
hours, one can actually taste the garlic in your mouth (try it if you are
skeptical).  The epithelial/mucousal membranes are wonderful at transporting
things.  BTW, the garlic tx did work at clearing up infections.
Warmly,
Chris
--
--Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC    [log in to unmask]
INFANT CUISINE AND MOTHER CARE: Lactation Consulting, Perinatal Health
Education and Attachment Parenting Classes for parents and practitioners

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