10 best natural remedies for conjunctivitis (2023)

Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye infection caused by a virus, bacteria, allergen, or irritant. It is characterized by redness, itching, and discharge from the eyes and is highly contagious. Although pink eye usually clears up on its own in a week or two, there are things you can do to help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. This article looks at the top 10 natural remedies for conjunctivitis and when to seek medical attention.

Different types of conjunctivitis (pink eye)

The duration of conjunctivitis can vary depending on the underlying cause, but most cases resolve within 7-10 days. There are several different types of conjunctivitis, including:

• viral conjunctivitisIt is the most common type of conjunctivitis and is caused by viruses such as the common cold virus or the herpes simplex virus. It is highly contagious and can be easily spread through contact with an infected person or their secretions. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own in 1 to 2 weeks.
• bacterial conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is also highly contagious and can be passed through contact with an infected person or their secretions. Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotics and clears up in a few days to a week.
• allergic conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other allergens. It can also be caused by exposure to irritants like smoke or chemicals. Allergic conjunctivitis persists as long as the allergen is present, but symptoms can usually be controlled with antihistamines and other medications.
• chemical conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to irritants such as chlorine, smoke, or other chemicals. It can also be caused by exposure to certain medications, including eye drops or ointments.
• giant papillary conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is a chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually caused by foreign objects such as contact lenses. It can also be caused by an allergy to contact lens solution or other materials.

How to get rid of conjunctivitis naturally

While medication is essential for some cases of conjunctivitis, some home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. These remedies include:

1. Including hot

Warm compresses are a simple yet effective home remedy for conjunctivitis. Helps reduce inflammation, relieve discomfort, and promote healing. (fuente）

Warm compresses help improve blood flow to the affected area, which can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. It also helps loosen any crusts or discharge that may be in the eye.

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water to reduce the spread of infection.
• Soak a clean washcloth or cotton ball in warm water.
• Squeeze out excess water, then place a warm compress on the affected eye for about 10 minutes or until the cloth cools.
• Repeat the process for each eye up to 3 times daily using a clean new cloth or cotton ball.
• Discard the cloth or cotton ball after each use and do not reuse.
• After you finish the compress, wash your hands again with warm, soapy water.

A clean cloth should be used between each use to prevent the spread of infection. Also, avoid using hot water as it can further irritate your eyes.

2. Cold compress

Cold compresses are another simple and effective home remedy for conjunctivitis. It can help relieve itching, irritation, and swelling in the affected eye.

The cold temperature of the dressing helps to reduce inflammation and numb the affected area, thus relieving symptoms. It also helps to constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing redness in the eyes.

• Wash your hands well with soap and warm water.
• Apply a cold compress by dipping a soft, clean cloth in cold water.
• Squeeze excess water from the cloth and place it over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.
• Repeat the cold pack several times throughout the day for best results.
• Be sure to use a new, clean cloth each time you apply a compress.
• Avoid sharing towels or clothing with other people.
• Use a clean cloth or cloth-wrapped gel pack to avoid direct skin contact.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy that is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It contains antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight infections.

Aloe vera can also help reduce inflammation and redness in the eyes. In addition, it relieves itching and burning.

• Wash your hands well with soap and water.
• Mix one part aloe vera gel with one part boiled or distilled water.
• Dip a cotton ball or cheesecloth into the mixture.
• Squeeze out excess fluid and apply the mixture to the affected eye.
• Leave the mixture on the eyes for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Rinse affected eyes with distilled or boiled water.
• Repeat this process 3 to 4 times a day until the red eye symptoms disappear.

Always use fresh aloe vera leaves and a clean cotton ball or swab with each use to prevent the spread of infection.

4. Chamomile tea

chamomile teaIt is a natural remedy that is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Helps reduce inflammation, redness and swelling of the eyes and relieves itching and burning. The antibacterial properties of the tea can also help fight any infection that may be present.

• Boil a cup of water and steep a chamomile tea bag for 5 minutes.
• Let the tea cool to room temperature.
• Dip a cotton ball in the tea and squeeze it to make it moist but not drippy.
• Apply the tea-soaked cotton ball to the affected eye and leave it on for a few minutes.
• Repeat the same process for the other eye with a new cotton ball.

A fresh cup of chamomile tea and a clean cotton ball should be used with each use to prevent the spread of infection.

5. Cucumber slices

Cucumber slices are a simple yet effective home remedy for conjunctivitis. The coolness and moisture of cucumbers can help soothe and relieve symptoms of conjunctivitis, such as itching, irritation, and swelling.

Cucumber slices help reduce inflammation and provide a cooling effect that can help relieve discomfort and itching. Plus, they contain antioxidants that help boost the immune system and promote healing.

• Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them well.
• Cut the fresh cucumbers into thin slices.
• Place the cucumber slices on your closed eyelids for about 10 minutes.
• Rinse eyes with clean, cool water.
• Repeat this process three to four times a day until the symptoms of conjunctivitis disappear.
• Discard cucumber slices after each use and do not reuse them as this can spread bacteria.

6. Honey

Honey is a natural remedy that is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Honey helps reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling in the eyes and can relieve itching and burning. Its antibacterial properties can also help fight any infection that may be present.

• Boil 1 cup of water and add a tablespoon of honey.
• Let the mixture cool.
• Dip a cotton ball in the honey and water mixture and hold it over your closed eyes for a few minutes.
• Discard the used cotton balls and repeat the process with new ones.
• Repeat this process 2-3 times a day until the red eye symptoms disappear.

Instead of a mixture of honey and water, you can mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 teaspoon of warm water and drink it twice a day. This helps reduce inflammation, irritation, and redness in the eyes.

7. saline solution

Saline solution is a simple and effective home remedy for conjunctivitis. It is a natural disinfectant that can help clean the eyes.

The saline solution can also help remove any irritants or bacteria from the eyes while providing soothing and moisturizing benefits. It is a safe and gentle treatment that can be used by both adults and children.

• handwashing. Wash your hands well with soap and water before and after using the saline solution.
• Fill the saline solution into a clean container. A sterile solution should be used to prevent further infection.
• Tilt your head back and lower your lower eyelid. Squeeze a drop or two of saline solution onto the lower eyelid.
• Close your eyes and gently massage your eyelids. This helps the solution to spread evenly over the eyes.
• With eyes open, wipe up excess solution with a clean tissue.
• Repeat the above steps with the other eye if necessary.

8. Tea tree oil

tea tree oilIt is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating conjunctivitis. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential option for reducing inflammation, redness, and puffiness in the eyes, as well as fighting any bacterial or viral infections that may be present.

• Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in 1/4 cup of warm water.
• Using a cotton swab, apply diluted tea tree oil to the affected eye area.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse with water.
• Repeat this process thrice a day for a few days or until the infection clears up.

9. turmeric

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that may be effective in treating conjunctivitis. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to fight any infection that could cause pinkeye.

• Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with one tablespoon of water to make a turmeric paste.
• Dip a cotton ball into the turmeric paste.
• Place a cotton ball on the affected eye and leave it on for a few minutes.
• Rinse eyes with clean, cool water.
• Repeat this process two to three times a day for a few days until the conjunctivitis clears up.

Turmeric can help reduce inflammation and redness in the eyes. It also promotes healing and prevents the spread of infection. However, care should be taken when using turmeric as it can stain clothing and other surfaces.

10. yogurt

yoghurtis a common food that contains beneficial probiotics that help boost the immune system and fight bacterial infections that can cause conjunctivitis.

The probiotics in yogurt can also help restore the balance of good bacteria in the body, reducing inflammation and irritation in the eyes.

• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Put a few tablespoons of natural yogurt in a clean container.
• Dip a cotton ball in yogurt and apply to the affected eye.
• Let the yogurt rest for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse the yogurt with clean lukewarm water.
• Repeat this process three times a day until the red eye symptoms disappear.

How to prevent conjunctivitis and prevent it from spreading?

Follow these tips to reduce your risk of pinkeye and keep your eyes healthy.

• Wash your hands often – Be sure to wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before and after handling food, and after touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid touching your eyes: Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can spread the virus.
• Surface disinfection: Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses. This includes countertops, doorknobs, toys, and other surfaces.
• Avoid sharing items: Do not share items such as towels, pillows, and cosmetics with other people.
• Wear glasses instead of contacts: If you wear contacts, change them to glasses until the conjunctivitis clears up.
• Avoid close contact: Avoid close contact with people who have conjunctivitis.
• Change your pillowcases: wash them often and change them every few days.
• Get rid of your makeup – Get rid of all the eye makeup you have been wearing while suffering from pinkeye.

When to consult a doctor?

It is important to see your health care provider if you experience any of the following symptoms of conjunctivitis:

• severe eye pain
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• severe redness of the eyes
• Yellow, green, or thick eye discharge
• feel as if something is caught in the eye
• Symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of home treatment.
• If you have a weakened immune system or other health problems.
• If you have been exposed to someone with conjunctivitis