Pink eye is the colloquial term for conjunctivitis, which is a condition in which the conjunctiva is swollen. The conjunctiva is a layer covering the whites of the eyes. Pink eye leads to watering, redness, pain, discharge, and redness in one or both eyes. It occurs due to a viral or bacterial infection or as a consequence of some allergic reaction. Typically, pink eye is not serious. It tends to cure itself in a week or two. However, since it’s highly contagious, so faster healing is ideal. If you have pink eye, try the following nine remedies to attain relief from symptoms.

Salt Water

A simple saltwater wash is a convenient remedy for pink eye that requires no exotic ingredients or procedures. Boil 1 cup of water with a half teaspoon of salt added. Use this solution as an eyewash or as eye drops. Rinsing the eyes several times a day flushes out the infection so you can recover more quickly.

Tea

Several varieties of black and green tea are effective in helping the pink eye heal. The bioflavonoids in these teas fight viral and bacterial infections. Chamomile, calendula and fennel tea are most active. You can also use plain black tea. Hot compresses made with these teas decrease irritation in the eye and reduce inflammation. Wash the cloth used for the compress after each session to prevent the infection from spreading.

Probiotics

Probiotic fluids increase the number of good bacteria and thus help in countering the effects of bad bacteria. Kefir is a natural probiotic that you can use to treat pink eye. Use it with both hot and cold compresses to relieve inflammation, itching, burning, and pain.

Raw Potato

Raw potato has a soothing effect on the skin. It helps inflammation to subside and relieves burning. Squeeze out a quantity of raw potato juice, mix it with some water and rinse eyes with it. Place thinly sliced pieces of potato on shut eyes for 10 to 15 minutes for a cooling effect. Do this as often as you want, but always use fresh juice and slices of potato.

Honey

Honey is the most widely acknowledged as an effective home remedy for pink eye. Its antibacterial and antibiotic properties are conducive to the healing of pink eye. Boil 3 tablespoons of honey in 2 cups of water or milk. Use it to wash the eyes, or alternately prepare a warm compress with it.

Eye Drops

Over-the-counter eye drops can soothe the symptoms of pink eye. They help relieve the burning and itching sensations. Also, the lubrication helps flush the infection out of the eyes, thus aiding quick recovery. If eye drops causes any irritation, discontinue their use immediately.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is a perennial plant with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It’s very effective in killing the bacteria that cause pink eye. Boil 2 teaspoons goldenseal in 1 cup of water. Use it to rinse the eyes or better yet, as a warm compress. Make fresh batches of solution each time.

Boric Acid

This weak acid is often used for treating cuts, burns, and wounds. It has purifying properties and thus is found in many facial creams. To treat pink eye, mix a small quantity of boric acid with water, and use it as an eyewash. If it causes discomfort, dilute the solution further.

Barberry Plant

The barberry plant, better known as the mountain grape, is a remedy for various microbial, fungal and parasitic infections. It contains berberine, which has great curative properties. Boil barberry plant in water to create an eyewash. Use the solution only when it has cooled down. Make a solution from fresh berries for each rinse.