Eye problems are never fun, especially for kids. Pink eye is a common childhood ailment that can also spread to adults. With these home remedies for pink eye though, you’ll know what to do if you or your child have to deal with it!
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, aka conjunctivitis, is when the conjunctiva in the eyes becomes inflamed and irritated. Eyes can be red for several reasons, but pink eye is caused by viruses, bacteria, or sometimes allergies. If there’s a foreign object in the eye this can cause red eyes and an irritated cornea, but it’s not necessarily an eye infection.
Types of Pink Eye
- Viral pink eye– Viral conjunctivitis is by far the most common. Usually caused by adenovirus (mild cold and flu), but can also be caused by herpes simplex and other viruses.
- Bacterial pink eye – Pink eye caused by bacterial infection is much less common, but it can happen. The most common bacteria behind it are Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus pneumonia, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
- Allergic pink eye – This type is triggered by allergens like pollen.
- Baby pink eye – Newborns and infants can get pink eye for a different reason. Sometimes it’s caused by a partially clogged or unopened tear duct. It can also be caused by an infection transmitted from the mom at birth or irritation due to newborn eye drops for STIs.
Pink eye lasts for a few days to a few weeks. Anyone can get pink eye, but it’s most common in school-age children. Pink eye that’s due to an allergic reaction will last as long as that person is around their allergen.
Some sources say you can tell if it’s bacterial conjunctivitis or viral based on the discharge color. But it’s a little trickier than that. Even eye experts only had a 48% accuracy rate in determining the cause. And testing isn’t always accurate. Up to 90% of pink eye is caused by adenoviruses.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
The main symptom in cases of pink eye is a pink or red eye, but here are some more to look out for:
- Dry eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Red eyes
- A gritty feeling
- Eye inflammation
- Discharge that forms a crust (can be yellow, clear, green, or white). This can cause the eyes to seal together at night, making it difficult to open the eye the next morning.
Since the body is fighting off an infection or allergen, it’s also common to feel tired and generally under the weather.
How Does Pink Eye Spread?
This eye condition is easily spread from person to person. If someone touches their eye and then touches something (or someone) else, the virus or bacteria will spread. Adenovirus is the most common viral infection behind pink eye. This virus can live on surfaces for months and is resistant to some cleaners.
Any mom can tell you how hard it is to keep little hands from wiping noses and eyes. And then wiping it on toys, doorknobs, other siblings…
Conventional Pink Eye Treatments
Since most cases are caused by a virus, there aren’t a lot of medical treatment options. Sometimes a primary care provider or ophthalmologist (eye doctor) will prescribe antibiotics or antibiotic eye drops. The CDC recommends against this though for viral infection.
Anti-viral medications for pink eye don’t treat the most common strains. A 2011 study looked at anti-viral meds for pink eye. Most focused on treating the herpes virus (which causes very few cases). And some of the antiviral drugs are known to be toxic or ineffective. The study authors conclude that there are no known effective drug treatments for viral pink eye.
Allergic pink eye is a little different. It’s most often treated with over-the-counter antihistamines. Sometimes anti-inflammatory eye drops are used.
If there’s pain or inflammation, ibuprofen is sometimes used.
When To See Your Doctor
Most cases of pink eye don’t need medical attention and go away on their own. The CDC recommends seeing a healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Pain in the eye
- Sensitivity to light – especially indoor light
- Intense redness in the whites of the eyes
- Blurred vision that doesn’t improve after wiping away any discharge
- Newborns that have pink eye should see their pediatrician right away
Good Hygiene Habits For Eyes
Eye health isn’t just about which natural remedies or pharmaceutical medicines you take though. Healthy habits can help mitigate the spread and relieve pink eye fast. Here are some ways to help keep pink eye from getting worse.
- Don’t use contact lenses during pink eye. These cause more irritation.
- Change pillowcases and sheets often.
- Avoid touching affected eyes and wash hands afterward if you do.
- You can also use a clean washcloth and some warm water for a warm compress. Some sources recommend using a cool compress to calm inflammation.
- Use a warm washcloth to help wipe off the crusty discharge – especially in the mornings
- Don’t use eye makeup when you have pink eye. And throw eye makeup away once the pink eye is gone. Mascara and other eye makeup with water should be replaced every 3 months. Waterless eye makeup, like eyeliner pencils, is good for 6-12 months. These products are more prone to growing bacteria since they’re applied to the moist eye area.
Home Remedies For Pink Eye
While there aren’t many conventional options, here’s where home treatments can really shine! Here are some of the most common and most evidence based home remedies for pink eye.
Allergic Pink Eye Solutions
If the pink eye is due to allergies, here’s how to get to the root cause and address the symptoms naturally. Fixing leaky gut symptoms is also key. For fast symptom relief, Genexa offers homeopathic medicine for kids and adults.
You can find their Kid’s Cold Crush and Kid’s Allergy Care remedies for runny, sneezy noses and watery eyes here. They also have adult versions on their site.
(Natural) Artificial Tears
These help by lubricating the eyes and calming the irritation. While they won’t kill viruses or bacteria, eye drops can help provide soothing relief. Do not use eye drops labeled for red eyes.
These actions can exacerbate and worsen pink eye symptoms.
While many artificial tears contain preservatives and chemicals that I prefer to avoid, there are natural options available. You can find a natural version of artificial tears here.
Vitamins and Supplements
Maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial for combatting pathogens. Probiotics, zinc, and vitamin C are essential supplements for this purpose.
In a 2008 study, lactobacillus eye drops were found to alleviate pink eye symptoms such as itching and discharge. Taking probiotics internally also promotes a healthy microbiome, supporting overall health. A 2020 study identified lactobacillus and bifidobacterium probiotics as effective against bacterial strains that commonly cause bacterial pink eye.
French ophthalmologists in 2003 emphasized the importance of zinc, vitamin C, and magnesium for allergic pink eye. Zinc and vitamin C are recommended by Mount Sinai Hospital in New York for boosting the immune system to combat pink eye.
Breastmilk
Some recommend using Breastmilk as a natural remedy for pink eye. Studies on its efficacy have shown mixed results. While it has been found to inhibit certain bacteria, it may not have an effect on others.
It is important to note that these studies were conducted in Petri dishes and not on actual humans. Additionally, viruses are the primary cause of pink eye, not bacteria.
If you choose to use breastmilk for pink eye, apply a few drops of clean breastmilk to the affected eye as needed.
Chamomile Home Remedy for Pink Eye
Chamomile is a soothing herb that can help alleviate eye infections and inflammation. It is safe for use by individuals of all ages, including children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. However, individuals with eye irritation due to hay fever or allergies should exercise caution.
A 1990 study reported cases of allergic reactions to chamomile eyewash in individuals with seasonal allergies and hay fever. These individuals did not experience any adverse effects from consuming chamomile tea.
To use chamomile, soak chamomile tea bags in warm water and place them over closed eyelids. Alternatively, dip a washcloth in warm tea made from whole chamomile herb and apply it to the eyes. The European Medicines Agency recommends infusing 3-10 grams of dried chamomile flowers in 100ml of water for a compress.
You can also create a chamomile eye wash using well-strained chamomile tea.
Cats Claw Bark
Cats claw is a well-known herbal remedy for various ailments, including pink eye. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can provide relief from eye inflammation and stimulate the immune system. However, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or by individuals taking immunosuppressant drugs.
Due to its drying effects, cats claw is best used in combination with moisturizing and soothing herbs like plantain leaf.
To use cats claw, simmer 1 gram of dried cats claw root in 1 cup of water for about 20 minutes. Add 1 tsp of plantain if desired, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain well and use it as a warm (not hot) eye wash or warm compress on the eyelid.
Eyebright
Eyebright is a well-known herb for soothing irritated eyes caused by allergies and colds. It is particularly effective for allergic and inflammatory conjunctivitis.
In a 2000 study, eyebright eye drops were found to be beneficial for patients with inflammatory and catarrhal conjunctivitis, with most patients experiencing a complete recovery.
To use eyebright:
- Apply eyebright tea bags soaked in warm water to closed eyes for 10-20 minutes
- Prepare a tea using 1-3 teaspoons of eyebright herb per 1 cup of hot water. Steep for 30 minutes, strain well, and use as a warm compress or eye wash. Purchase eyebright herb here.
- If you prefer a premade solution, you can find an eyebright eye wash solution or eyebright eye drops for purchase.
Garlic Home Remedy For Pink Eye
Garlic is a potent antiviral and antibacterial remedy that can inhibit various pathogens, including the adenovirus responsible for most cases of pink eye. Including garlic in the diet through options like fermented garlic honey or roasted garlic soup can be beneficial.
An alternative is to consume diced raw garlic followed by water, although this method may be too spicy for some individuals.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a popular remedy for colds and flu, known for its antiviral properties and immune-stimulating effects. A 2009 study confirmed its effectiveness against various viral strains, including the adenovirus that causes pink eye.
Echinacea is most effective when used at the onset of illness and may not be as effective if started several days into the ailment.
When dealing with pink eye, consider using aronia berry syrup or tea as an alternative to elderberry, as aronia has been shown to be effective against adenoviruses, the common cause of pink eye.
Astragalus, an herbal adaptogen, has been found to inhibit adenovirus replication and help kill the virus. It can be used in various forms such as tincture, decoction, syrup, or capsules.
While colloidal silver has antimicrobial properties, using it in the eyes can cause irritation and potential damage. It is recommended to use other safe and effective options for pink eye treatment.
If symptoms of pink eye persist or worsen, especially in young children, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare practitioner. Experiment with different home remedies to find the most suitable option for you.
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- Sugimura, T., et al. (2021). Efficacy and safety of breast milk eye drops in infants with eye discharge. Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992), 110(4), 1322–1329.
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