Is it true that eating earwax can make you mute?

Jul 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a淡黄色黏稠物质 secreted by the ceruminous glands in the external auditory canal. Its main components include shed epithelial cells, fatty acids, cholesterol, small amounts of moisture, and trace elements. Essentially, it is a normal metabolic product secreted by the human body. It does not contain toxic substances nor does it have any adverse effects on the body's vocal system. (Note: "淡黄色黏稠物质" was left untranslated in the initial response. The accurate translation would be "pale yellow viscous substance.") Corrected translation: Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a pale yellow viscous substance secreted by the ceruminous glands in the external auditory canal. Its main components include shed epithelial cells, fatty acids, cholesterol, small amounts of moisture, and trace elements. Essentially, it is a normal metabolic product secreted by the human body. It does not contain toxic substances nor does it have any adverse effects on the body's vocal system.

Under normal circumstances, earwax refers to cerumen. The claim that consuming cerumen causes muteness is a rumor without any scientific basis and is completely unfounded. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In medical terms, earwax is known as cerumen, a slightly yellowish viscous substance secreted by the ceruminous glands in the external ear canal. Its primary components include shed epithelial cells, fatty acids, cholesterol, small amounts of moisture, and trace elements. Essentially, it is a normal metabolic product secreted by the human body, containing no toxic substances and posing no adverse effects on the body's vocalization system.

Vocal function is primarily coordinated by the vocal cords, throat muscles, and the nervous system. If muteness occurs, it is usually related to throat disorders, nervous system diseases, or psychological factors, and has no connection whatsoever with contact with cerumen. In fact, cerumen has a protective function for the ear canal, helping to trap dust and prevent foreign substances from entering. Under normal circumstances, there is no need for deliberate cleaning, nor will accidental ingestion lead to speech disorders.

In daily life, one should develop good personal hygiene habits, maintain ear canal cleanliness, and avoid using sharp objects to clean the ear canal. If excessive cerumen or ear discomfort occurs, timely medical attention should be sought, and the condition should be managed by a qualified physician.