Top 5 Natural Treatments for Pink Eye

Natural treatments for pink eye can be soothing and help to reduce pain and irritation while you wait for the pink eye virus to run its course, or if you’d rather not use prescribed pink eye drops. Of course, the best remedy is prevention, so be sure to wash hands and anything else that comes in contact with an infected eye, such as towels or clothing, to prevent spreading pink eye.

One soothing example of home remedies for pink eye is as simple as it is effective. Pediatric ophthalmologist Robert Petersen, M.D., recommends applying a warm compress to the eyes for five to ten minutes, three or four times a day.

For adults with more heavily-encrusted eyelashes and corners of the eyes, try a solution of one part baby shampoo to 10 parts warm water. Dip a cotton ball in the solution and gently soak eyes, cleaning off the crust that forms in the junction of eyelid and eyelash. The over-the-counter formula Eye-Scrub also works in place of baby shampoo.

Another highly effective of these natural treatments for pink eye is salted cotton balls. Boil a pan of water, add a large amount of salt, and soak cotton balls until the water cools so they absorb as much salt as possible. Place salted cotton balls on eye lids while you’re lying down for about five minutes—the salt helps kill the infection.

Finally, two pink eye cures using tea bags or coffee may also provide some relief. Soak a tea bag in warm water or boil coffee, then place tea bag or tissue soaked in coffee solution on the affected eye for several minutes. Rinse well, then apply eye drops.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.