Home Remedies for Eye Infections That Work
Eye infection is a common condition that almost everyone faces at some point in their lifetime.
There are many reasons for eye infections, such as viruses, bacteria, allergies, or other microbiological means.
Nearly a million people get eye infection yearly that needs medical attention.
It is very annoying when your eyes become irritated or itchy. But there are numerous ways you can protect your eyes.
You can try some home remedies like eye washes to keep your eyes from getting irritated.
Read on to find out more about these remedies and how to use them.
Home remedies for eye infection
Daily routine and pollution affect our eyes more than we think.
Chemicals, pollution, or dirt can make your eyes irritating or itchy. If ignored, it can lead to eye infections.
Thus it is essential to take good care of your eyes.
You can try natural remedies or eye washes to reduce your discomfort.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil can bring many health benefits due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
There are not many human studies on the effectiveness of eye health. But its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a safe, natural remedy to treat dry eyes.
When applied, it creates a protective layer over the tear film layer. It reduces the evaporation of eye fluid called aqueous humor, reducing dryness.
To use coconut oil, you can soak a cotton ball in the oil and place it on your closed eyes.
You can do this several times a day until you feel better.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is made by the fermentation of apples.
It has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
However, not many clinical studies back up its health benefits. Consult your doctor before considering using ACV for eye infections.
According to NCPC, Vinegar can cause irritation, redness, and corneal injury.
Hence take the following precautions while using ACV:
- Use a very diluted solution of ACV and water. Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water
- Use a cotton ball to apply the solution to your closed eyes
- It is fine if some of it gets into the eye
- Use the solution three times a day
- Always use a fresh cotton ball for each treatment
- Treat both eyes even if only one eye is infected
Usually, the infection clears up within a day or two. However, continue the treatment to make sure the infection does not return.
Tea tree oil for eye infection
Tea Tree Oil (TTO) is a natural oil extracted from Melaleuca Alternifolia.
It has anti-infective and wound-healing properties and is proven effective in treating infection due to Demodex.
A study on patients showed improvement in symptoms and tear film stability after using TTO.
Witch hazel for eye infection
Witch hazel is a medicinal plant used in a variety of ways.
Due to their anti-inflammatory properties, its leaves and bark are used as teas and ointments.
Witch hazel is rich in Tannin, which is a Polyphenol. It modulates the immune response.
However, more study is needed to see the effectiveness of Witch hazel for eye infection.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a medicinal and aromatic plant that belongs to the daisy family.
It contains Terpenoids and Flavonoids, which contribute to the Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of the plant.
For years, people have used Chamomile tea to relieve eye infections, Conjunctivitis, and blocked tear ducts.
To use Chamomile tea, you can follow the given instructions:
- Brew one teaspoon of Chamomile tea with one cup of boiling water
- Steep for five minutes and place it in the fridge to cool down
- You can use this liquid as an eyewash to reduce itchiness, inflammation, and irritation
Though it has been used for years, there is still not much research that shows the efficacy of Chamomile for eye infections.
Thus speak with your doctor before you consider using it for your eyes.
Thus speak with your doctor if you have any allergies related to the Chamomile plant.
Green Tea bag
Green tea is produced from Camellia Sinensis leaves.
Green tea is rich in bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Using green tea bags on the eyes reduces the swelling and soothes your eyes. However, there is no scientific proof to prove that they treat eye infections.
To use green tea bags, refrigerate them for a while and place them on your eyes for twenty minutes. Do this two times daily to reduce the pain and swelling.
Homemade eye wash
Eyewash liquids are used to reduce eye irritation at home.
You can use eyewash to reduce irritation, burning, or itchy feelings in the eyes.
Saltwater (Saline water)
Saltwater, also known as Saline water, contains high concentrations of dissolved salts.
It can treat eye infections effectively due to its Antimicrobial properties.
Saltwater works like teardrops. It is a natural remedy that clears away pus, discharge, or dirt.
To make saltwater
You can make this natural eye wash at home by following the instructions:
- Mix one teaspoon of salt in half a liter of water (Use boiled and then cooled water)
- Soak the cotton ball in the liquid and wipe your eyes from the corner end to your nose
- Use fresh cotton after each wipe
- Repeat this several times until the eye irritation stops
Warm compress for eye infection
Warm compress increases blood circulation near eye areas, and increases tear production.
Using it regularly releases the oil glands of your eyelid. This releases oil accumulated near the eyelids, which improves tear quality and reduces irritation.
How to use a warm compress
You can make a warm compress by yourself at home by following the instructions:
- Add warm water to a bowl
- Soak a clean, lint-free cloth in water
- Wring out the water from the cloth and place the cloth on your closed eyes
- You can do this several times until you feel better
Takeaway
Although many natural remedies are available, they can not treat all eye problems.
You should follow these remedies to keep your eyes clean and healthy.
You can use the above-mentioned oils to reduce the irritation and eye wash to keep your eyes clean.
If your eye infection is getting severe and painful, then seek immediate medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to use for eye infection?
Medicine to use for eye infection depends on its severity and causes. Such as, for bacterial infection, you can use antibiotics or Natamycin antifungal. Do not take the medicines without first talking with your doctor, as it may not work for you.
How can I treat an eye infection at home?
There are many ways you can treat an eye infection at home, such as using antibiotics. But it is better to speak with your doctor as it might not work for you depending on your cause of infections.
Can an eye infection heal naturally?
There are some eye infections, like viral Conjunctivitis, which heal naturally in five to ten days. But some eye infections need proper treatment. Thus seek medical attention if you have severe symptoms.
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