What is the best remedy for otitis media (ear infection) in children? Not antibiotics contrary to popular opinions by doctors. Ear infections are generally viral not bacterial so children generally only get temporary relief from antibiotics. After the antibiotics they are more suseptible to get more ear infections. Why? Because the antibiotics kill all the good bacteria in the gut leaving the child immune system low and their digestion impaired which then creates more phlegm. Chinese herbs are an exceptional remedy for ear infections. Also probiotics are extremely important.