They are medicinal. They are compounds extracted from plants. I use them in place of antibiotics, pain relievers, anti inflamatories, etc.

For example, I put a few drops of peppermint oil on my neck, behind my ears and on my temples when I have a headache. I use a mix of a few oils mixed with a little oilive oil for an ear infection. If I have something going on internally, I take an oregano oil pill because it is a super strong antibacterial and antiviral.

I diffuse certain oils in the air and breathe them in when congested. I also make a eucalyptus rub that works like Vicks vapo rub.

I use other oils for cuts, stings, skin issues, etc. There's an oil for pretty much anything. Our creator is awesome like that

Essentially, I'm like my own pharmacist. I also use them to make my own cleaners, hand sanitizer, deodorizers, sleep aids, etc.

I think they are awesome and I attempt to resolve most issues naturally.

For that ear pain you can also try cutting up some garlic and letting it sit in a bit of olive oil for a while and then putting the oil on a cotton ball and placing it in the ear. You can also put some dry rice and salt in a sock and microwave it until it is warm. Lay down on that for a while. It can help relieve the pressure.

It sounds like you need a doctor perhaps, but there are natural options you can try when things crop up initially to keep them from getting out of hand.