Alison Odey

Meniere’s disease characteristically shows symptoms of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus with associated nausea, vomiting and loss of balance and sometimes disturbed vision.

The cause is said to be unknown, however some possible causes are increase of fluids in the inner ear, impaired blood flow to the brain, allergies, stress, deficiency of B vitamins or an impaired carbohydrate metabolism.

One of the most effective remedies has been found to be reducing salt intake as it is thought to help reduce possible fluid accumulation in the inner ear.

Often attacks of Meniere’s will follow an illness in which antibiotics were given and on inspection the drums will often appear darkened indicating fluid trapped in the inner ear.
In this case ‘Tiger Balm'(TM) or any other heat rub rubbed around the ears or onion poultices held over the ears can help to drain fluid.
See page on ‘Onion poultices’

Herbs can also help. Specifically: herbs such as Euphorbia and Lobelia, which can help open up the Eustachian tubes and improve drainage, Elecampane and Marshmallow to soothe and also to help drainage and Myrrh or Golden Seal as antibiotics.

Also if you smoke…stop, as smoking greatly reduces blood flow to the small capillaries that supply the nerves of the inner ear.

Avoiding caffeine can help some people as it will help to reduce over stimulation of the nerve endings.

Niacin or Vitamin B3 has also been thought to be useful in some instances, as it is a strong vasodilator, and can increase circulation to the nerves of the ear but be very careful how you use it. Start with very small doses and always combine with a vitamin B complex.
See page on ‘Niacin – use of B3’.

Vitamin B should always be taken anyway as many patients with Meniere’s have been found to be chronically B vitamin deficient.

In some situations Evening Primrose oil has been of help as it aids in reducing inflammation and muscle tension.

It is also worth seeking Osteopathic treatment as this can often greatly improve drainage to the head area.

Massage to ease muscle tension around the neck can also help.