Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear-lining tissues in the eyelid covering the white part of the eye. Like a typical infection, pink eye can be treated at home with essential oils and other natural remedies. Discover below a list of essential oils for pink eye and other natural treatments you can use. to treat pink eye.
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What Causes Pink Eye?
Pink eye is caused majorly by a virus. Other secondary causes include irritants, allergens, and bacteria. Pink eye is contagious and is mostly seen in kids, though it can spread to everyone. Doctors can’t do much to treat a viral infection. Therefore, a pink eye is mainly left to run its course, or the doctor may prescribe over-the-counter saline eye drops to reduce uncomfortable signs.
Symptoms of pink eye include;
- Swelling
- Itching
- Redness
- Non-stop tears.
- The eyelids are stuck together, especially in the morning.
Are Essential Oils Good for Pink Eye?
Essential oils are known to enhance one’s circulation and immune system, assisting in fighting off microbes. These oils offer antisepsis, protecting against passing it along or reinfection. Essential oils function well in soaps and sprays for disinfection and cleaning.
Some essential oils induce sleep and calm if you have pink eye. Others have antioxidant capabilities to remove inflamed tissues. Other essential oils offer analgesia to reduce the achy discomfort characterized by the pink eye.
Essential oils for pink eye can be used by kids aged two and older and adults.
The most common types of essential oils for conjunctivitis or pink eye include;
- Lavender oil
- Tea tree oil
- Neem oil
- Roman chamomile oil
- Helichrysum oil
- Patchouli oil
- Copaiba oil
Lavender Oil for Pink Eye
Lavender is mostly common for reducing the swelling and redness of inflamed tissues. Lavender oil repels microbes, such as bacteria or viruses that cause pink eye. It is an analgesic, which means it supports any discomfort you are feeling. For some, lavender oil is soothing and used as a sleeping aid, especially for the young ones.
How to Use Lavender Oil for Pink Eye
Add one drop of lavender oil to 3ml witch hazel and 10ml of water. Blend properly and add to 30ml distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray the dilution on your linen 15-30 minutes before bedtime or generally in the evening.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea has been used for years to remove microbes with its ability to repel viruses and cleansing antisepsis. It has strong monoterpene components that offer a variety of benefits. For instance, it enhances your immune system, giving extra help when experiencing a pink eye. Its camphor elements boost breathing when inflamed eye tissues lead to nasal congestion.
How to Use Tea Tree Oil
Blend 3-4 drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil and massage on your neck’s front. Circulation will ensure the absorption of the oil and delivery to the eye tissues. For young kids, use 0.5% topical dilution by blending one drop of the same with 10ml of carrier oil.
Neem Oil for Pink Eye
Neem contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial elements that help combat viruses, bacteria while soothing inflammation. It also relieves pain and irritated skin. Neem oil can be used together with tea tree oil for a mixed antiviral and antimicrobial properties effect.
How to Use Neem Oil for Pink Eye
Apply a reasonably small amount of neem oil around the infected eye, probably before going to bed. You will begin to notice improvements within a few days.
Roman Chamomile Oil
It is an essential oil that is known for soothing signs of inflammation. It is protective and cleansing, gently lowering pink eye swelling and irritation. Roman chamomile oil lightens moods, and it has flavonoids that cause a relaxant effect on smooth muscle.
How to Use Roman Chamomile oil
Prep a sachet by adding a cloth with 2-3 drops of chamomile oil, putting it in a muslin bag or organza. Place under the pillow or in your immediate area.
Helichrysum Oil
It boosts the immune system and provides general calm. Helichrysum oil reduces the swelling, redness, and pain present in the pink eye’s inflamed tissues. Its main component, known as pinene, is an uplifting and respiratory stimulant.
How to Use Helichrysum for Pink Eye
Put one drop of the oil and place it nearby as a handy inhaler.
Patchouli Oil
It is known to have a mysterious aroma. Patchouli is made up of components that protect the skin tissues, such as your delicate eyelids. The components assist with skin regeneration, for instance, if you are experiencing a pink eye. beta-patchoulene removes microbes and irritations. Patchouli has also been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Use Patchouli Oil for Pink Eye
If you have a lava necklace, add 1 or 2 drops and allow the aroma to caress your face towards the eyes.
Copaiba Oil
It is common for boosting the immune system and the ability to manage the pink eye. It has adequate sesquiterpene compounds that provide the required protection. β-caryophyllene is among these compounds known to be non-steroidal since it offers relief to irritated tissues.
How to Use Copaiba for Pink Eye
For kids aged 2-6 years old, prepare a 1% dilution of hand soap by mixing six drops of copaiba oil to 30ml of castile soap. For children aged seven and above and adults, you can use 15 drops in the same amount of liquid castile soap.
Other Remedies for Pink Eye
Aside from the above-mentioned essential oils for pink eyes, there are other home remedies for pink eye. Some are not necessarily crucial oils, but they function almost the same. They include;
- Coconut oil.
- Frankincense oil.
- Turmeric powder. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is usually taken orally. A study proved that if taken regularly, turmeric powder helps treat eye inflammations.
- Green tea
Bottom Line
Treating pink eye requires extra care. You should ensure minimal hand contact with your face, but you have to touch your face, ensure you wash your hands well. Essential oils for the pink eye will also benefit the healing process. Be sure to consult with your doctor before buying essential oils for your pink eye.