Eating Earwax: What will Happen?
Short Answer: If you accidentally ate earwax, you would most likely not get sick, but you might feel nauseous or uncomfortable due to its bitter taste and irritating effect on the digestive tract. Earwax is a waxy substance that is produced by glands in the ear canal to protect and lubricate the skin inside the ears. It helps prevent foreign objects, such as dust, dirt, or even a bug, from reaching the eardrum. Earwax also contains dead skin cells, hair, and various substances, such as keratin, cholesterol, fatty acids, squalene, and alcohol esters. If you accidentally eat earwax, you will most likely not experience any serious harm or illness. Earwax is not toxic or poisonous, and it does not contain any harmful bacteria or viruses. However, eating earwax may cause some unpleasant effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. This is because earwax has a bitter and unpleasant taste, and it may irritate the lining of the digestive tract. Earwax contains squalene, which is a natural antioxidant that can protect the skin from damage and aging. Squalene can also lower cholesterol levels and improve immune system function. However, the amount of squalene in earwax is very small, and it is unlikely to have any significant benefits if ingested. It is quite uncommon to eat earwax on purpose, as most people find it disgusting and unappealing. However, some people may have a psychological condition called pica, which is a compulsive desire to eat non-food items, such as dirt, clay,