Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common eye problem with symptoms like itching, redness, thick, whitish drainage, and swelling just to name a few. It can be triggered by a bacteria or a virus and can be contagious if you don’t take proper precautions. The symptoms for bacterial pink eye tend to disappear after 10 days. On the other hand, viral conjunctivitis can have symptoms last for a month with the front of the eyes becoming swollen and tender to the touch.

Although you should see a doctor for your pink eye, there are some home remedies that can alleviate the symptoms for you. Here are some for you to consider.

Green tea 

Green tea contains antioxidants and bioflavonoids that can alleviate inflammation and irritation on your eyes. This is particularly useful if you are dealing with bacterial or viral conjunctivitis. To use this treatment, simply boil some water and pour over your green tea bag and allow to steep for five minutes. Allow the tea bag to cool down first before placing on the affected eye. You can also make a cup of this tea and make a hot compress with it using a clean washcloth and place over the infected eye to get the same results. 

Honey 

Another possible treatment for pink eye is honey. In this treatment, you need to combine ¼ teaspoon of honey with ¼ cup of pure water and some salt. Dissolve the honey and salt in lukewarm water. Once the ingredients have been incorporated into the water properly, use a clean eye dropper and place one to two drops of the solution on each eye. You can repeat this every few hours if you like. 

Turmeric 

Turmeric may be a typical ingredient in your dishes but did you know that it can be used as a home remedy? This spice has compounds that can minimize inflammation.  The antibacterial properties present in it can also alleviate the symptoms of pink eye when you apply it topically. One way to do this is to add two tablespoons of turmeric powder to a cup of boiling water. Place a clean washcloth or cotton pad into the cup and use it as a warm compress. 

Herbal teas 

Another possible solution to your pink eye woes is herbal tea. Think calendula, chamomile, and fennel, just to name a few, and make a hot compress with it. Again, just steep the tea bags in a cup of hot water and dip a washcloth in it once it has cooled down. Place the washcloth over the infected eye and let it soothe the itching and dryness. 

Holy basil 

Holy basil, or tulsi, can also be used as a remedy to fight off pink eye. This is due to the fact that holy basil contains anti-inflammatory as well as soothing properties that can protect your eyes against free radicals and other environmental damages. Holy basil also has the ability to combat fungal, viral, and bacterial infections in the eyes. Soak the leaves of the holy basil in boiled water for 10 minutes then use the water for eye wash.