Alternative Health Blog

There are few things more distracting to everyday life than tinnitus, a term 12 million Americans know all to well is the scientific ID for ringing in the ears. Some people suffer intermittent ringing, other hear it non-stop. There are some natural options to stop the ringing—or hissing, clicking, buzzing, humming, whooshing—and they start with ginkgo biloba.

Taking ginkgo by tincture or capsule is aimed at improving blood circulation in the head and neck. You want to take the suggested daily dose but split it over three meals or snacks. It might not be the swiftest way to a clear head in that most natural health practitioners caution patients to give ginkgo a full two months to build up a therapeutic effect. For anyone who has suffered with tinnitus for much longer than that, the time frame might not seem as daunting.

You can take other steps while looking for ginkgo to work its herbal success. Tinnitus is caused by damage to tiny nerve endings in the inner ear, which most often occurs from exposure to loud noise (which might be voluntary or involuntary). But other possible damage can be caused by abnormal blood pressure (high or low), diabetes, thyroid problems, allergies or a head/neck injuries. Treating those conditions when possible can eliminate tinnitus.

Another possibility: Some anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics and even aspirin can be causing the ringing and other unwanted sounds. Changing or reducing the dose often works wonders.

New research from researchers at State University of New York in Buffalo shows that tinnitus might be activated more from brain activity than ear structure or damage. The study figures to help target when medications and remedies might be most effective. It certainly makes a case for being patient with ginkgo, which has long been associated with improving cognitive abilities. One new study reported that ginkgo can prevent further brain cell damage after strokes.

A couple other ideas: Some osteopathic physicians have helped people with cranoisacral therapy,, which is a gentle manipulation of bones in the head (nothing to avoid). Other practitioners say losing weight can help anyone with tinnitus who is over a healthy weight.

As for everyday habits, some people with tinnitus improve by drinking less coffee, tea or cola. And exercise is a documented antidote to preventing any return of the tinnitus. 

Bob Condor blogs for Alternative Health Journal every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.