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| - Last Updated on December 27, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a concoction of mango, peepal, and jamun leaves can heal a perforated eardrum. We fact checked this and have deemed it false.
The Claim
An Instagram reel suggests that a perforated tympanic membrane (hole in the eardrum or “kaan ka parda fatna“) can be treated at home using a concoction made from mango, peepal, and jamun leaves. The preparation involves boiling 10 leaves of each type in 400 mL of water until it reduces to half (200 mL), mixing the remaining liquid with 100 mL of mustard oil, and further boiling it to create a concentrated mixture. This oil-leaf concoction is then applied to the ear daily, with the promise of healing the perforation within 30 days. The claimant cites a Sanskrit shloka from Ayurveda to support this remedy.
Fact Check
What does the shloka in the claim say?
The shloka referenced by the claimant is:
“दुःखवर्धनकं सिक्त्वा जम्ब्वाम्राश्वत्यपत्रजैः । क्वाथैस्तैलेन सुस्निग्धं तच्चूर्णैश्चावधूलयेत् ॥ 3 ॥”
This translates to:
“Sprinkle (the wound or affected area) with a decoction made from the leaves of jamun (Syzygium cumini), mango (Mangifera indica), and peepal (Ficus religiosa). Then, apply well-prepared oil mixed with these ingredients, ensuring it is smooth and well-soaked. Finally, dust the area with appropriate medicinal powders.”
While the shloka discusses wound healing in general, it does not mention ear conditions, or perforated eardrums. Applying this advice to a delicate issue like an eardrum perforation is not appropriate or supported by evidence.
Can this concoction of mango, peepal and jamun leaves with mustard oil heal a perforated eardrum?
No, it cannot. The eardrum, or tympanic membrane, is a thin, delicate structure that needs proper medical care. Small perforations may heal on their own, but larger ones or persistent cases require medical treatment, such as surgery (Tympanoplasty or Myringoplasty).
Homemade remedies like the one suggested can do more harm than good. Mustard oil is not sterile and can irritate the ear canal or cause infections. An older study from 1997 showed that mustard oil increased ear swelling and plasma leakage in mice, peaking around 30 minutes after application. Similarly, boiling leaves does not guarantee sterility, and plant extracts may introduce allergens or bacteria. Most importantly, we found no evidence in modern medicine that this concoction can treat perforated eardrum at home.
Additionally, two 2024 Ayurvedic case reports show that ear drum perforations can occur due to injuries, infections, or pressure changes, leading to pain, hearing loss, and sometimes dizziness. While Ayurveda doesn’t directly mention treatments for ear drum perforations, it offers effective wound care methods. In both cases, Ayurvedic medicines, used locally and systemically, helped heal large perforations and restore hearing. However, none of these methods, or any other Ayurvedic texts, mention that a concoction of mango, peepal, and jamun leaves with mustard oil can heal a perforated eardrum at home. We found no evidence to support this claim.
Moreover, we sought further verification from Ayurvedic practitioners.
We connected with Dr Annusuiya Gohil, MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, for her expert opinion on a concoction made up of mango, peepal and jamun leaves with mustard oil to treat perforated eardrum at home. She explains, “In Ayurveda, there is no direct reference to treating a perforated eardrum with a concoction of mango, peepal, and jamun leaves mixed with mustard oil. Tympanic membrane perforations are delicate conditions requiring precise care. Ayurvedic texts focus on general wound healing (Vranachikitsa) using herbs and oils, but these treatments are not specific to ear injuries. Applying unverified remedies in the ear can risk infections or worsen the condition. It is always best to consult a qualified doctor for such issues.”
Dr Manan Arora, BAMS, Specialised in Chronic Disorders & Mental Wellness, New Delhi, shared his expert insights too. He said, “The mango leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Peepal (Ashvattha) leaves are considered soothing and healing in Ayurveda, often used for wounds and inflammation. Jamun is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily benefiting digestive health and blood sugar control. When boiled in water and mixed with mustard oil (which also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties), this mixture may offer soothing effects and help reduce inflammation. However, there is no strong scientific evidence to support its ability to heal a perforated eardrum specifically.”
We also got in touch with Dr Mohit Sandhu, BAMS, Shri Shubhda Ayurveda Wellness Clinic, Gurugram, for his perspective on Ayurvedic concoction made at home using mango, peepal and jamun leaves with mustard oil for perforated eardrum. He states, “Ayurveda focuses on enhancing the body’s natural healing processes by supporting tissue repair and reducing dosha imbalances. For minor perforations, Ayurvedic remedies might show results in reducing pain and inflammation within a month. However, significant perforations often require surgical intervention for full recovery. The efficacy of this concoction for completely healing a perforated eardrum remains uncertain without proper clinical evidence. Consulting an experienced Ayurvedic physician for a personalized treatment plan is essential.”
Are there risks to using this remedy?
Yes, using this concoction can be harmful. The risks include:
- Infections: The ear is highly sensitive, and introducing unclean substances like mustard oil or plant extracts can cause bacterial or fungal infections.
- Delayed treatment: Relying on unproven remedies can delay proper medical care, making the perforation worse.
- Hearing damage: Persistent irritation or infection may lead to permanent hearing loss.
What is the best way to treat a perforated eardrum?
A perforated eardrum often heals naturally within a few weeks. However, consulting a doctor is essential to avoid complications. Treatments include:
- Observation: Many small perforations heal without intervention.
- Antibiotics: If an infection is present, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
- Surgery: For larger or non-healing perforations, surgical repair (tympanoplasty) is a safe and effective option.
It is important not to put anything in your ear unless advised by a healthcare professional. Keeping the ear clean and dry is important during the healing process.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a concoction of mango, peepal, and jamun leaves mixed with mustard oil can heal a perforated eardrum is false. The referenced Ayurvedic shloka does not support this remedy, and no scientific evidence backs it up. Using unproven treatments can harm ear health. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for ear-related issues.
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