David C. Smalley, a comedian and fact-checker, joins the discussion to uncover the truth about ear candling. They explore its dubious origins and the staggering $1.2 million industry it has become. Is sticking a burning candle in your ear really effective or safe? They delve into the potential dangers, and the surprising lack of government intervention against it. With humor and skepticism, Smalley encourages critical thinking about alternative health practices while revealing the shocking myths and misinformation surrounding this unconventional remedy.
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Viral TikTok Video Promotes Ear Candling
A TikTok video with 4 million views shows a clinic-like setting where ear candling is performed.
The video shows a "black worm-looking thing" supposedly extracted from the ear, causing disgust and promoting the practice.
insights INSIGHT
False Origin Claim
Ear candling proponents falsely claim its origin in the Hopi Indian tribe.
The Hopi Indian Council denies any connection to this practice.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Dangers of Ear Candling
Avoid ear candling as it's pseudoscience with no evidence of effectiveness.
Serious injuries, including burns, hearing damage, and punctured eardrums, have been reported.
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Is ear candling -- the practice of inserting a lit, hollow candle in your ear to remove earwax -- a safe, practical way to get the job done? If you have a burning desire to discover the truth, listen on!
Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:
Where did the practice of ear candling originate? It's got to come from a noble, ancient, shamanic tradition and not some hippies out to make a buck, right?
Ear candling is a thriving industry that rakes in about $1.2 million a year.
Are there risks to placing a hollow, burning candle in your living human ear canal?
In spite of any of its potential dangers, at least ear candling gets rid of excess earwax and other debris like it's supposed to, right?
If ear candling is so hazardous to your health, the FDA or some governmental agency is on the case to have it banned, right? Right?
Connect with Jordan on Twitter, on Instagram, and on YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
The Jordan Harbinger Show