"An independent clinical study of ear candle use conducted by Daniel R. Seely, MD of the Spokane ENT Clinic, Spokane,WA (Laryngoscope 1996;106:1226-9) identified 21 ear injuries resulting from ear candle use in a survey of 122 otolaryngologists. The study concluded that ear candles have no benefit in the management of cerumen problems and may, in fact, result in serious injury. Injuries such as burns of the pinna and external auditory canal, partial or complete occlusions of the ear canal with candle wax, and tympanic membrane perforation were identified in the epidemiological survey.
FDA became concerned about the safety issues with ear candles after receiving reports of patient injury caused by the ear candling procedure. Although there are proponents who argue in favor of the use of ear candles, FDA is unaware of any controlled studies or other scientific evidence that support the safety and effectiveness of these devices for any of the purported claims or intended uses as contained in the labeling."
http://www.entlink.net/press/bulletin/Candles.cfm