Essential Oils For Pink Eye

Pink eye is also known as conjunctivitis. The conjunctivitis is redness and swelling of the conjunctiva. Conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and eye surface. The lining of the eyes is usually clear. If irritation or any type of infection occurs, this lining becomes red and swollen. To understand the difference, see the pictures of a normal eye and a pink eye. Pinkeye is a very common infection. It is not usually serious and goes away in around 7 to 10 days without any medical treatment.

Most of the cases of pinkeye are caused by:

• Dry eyes due to exposure to wind and sun
• Infections caused by viruses or bacteria.
• Allergies 
• Dry eyes from lack of tears  
• Chemicals, fumes, or smoke 

Pinkeye can be caused by two reasons, i.e. pinkeye caused by bacteria and pinkeye caused by a virus. Both viral and bacterial pinkeye are very contagious and spread very easily. Most of the cases are caused by a virus and there is no medicine available to cure it. So it is very important to prevent spreading of pinkeye caused by the virus. The sharing of an object like a washcloth or towel, with a person who has pinkeye can spread the infection easily. 

Viral conjunctivitis: It is caused by a virus, like the common cold, etc. This type of pink eye is very contagious, but usually will clear up on its own within 7-8 days without medical treatment.

Bacterial conjunctivitis: It is caused by bacteria; this type of conjunctivitis can be caused serious damage to the eye if left untreated.

Allergic conjunctivitis: It is caused by eye irritants like dust, pollen and animal dander among susceptible individuals. 

Pink Eye Symptoms

The primary symptom of pink eye is a pink appearance of the eye. All other symptoms of pink eye depend on the type of conjunctivitis:

Viral conjunctivitis: Watery, itchy eyes; sensitivity to light. 

Bacterial conjunctivitis: A sticky, greenish-yellow or yellow discharge in the corner of the eye. Sometimes this discharge can be caused the eyelids to be stuck together when you wake up. 

Allergic conjunctivitis: Itchy, burning, Watery eyes, runny nose, and light sensitivity. It is not contagious.

Essential oils for pink eye

Neem Essential Oil

Neem oil is very useful to get relief from skin irritation. It has soothing and antibiotic properties. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can decrease the effects and the symptoms of conjunctivitis. 

How to use

Take 1-2 drops of neem Essential oil

Apply this oil around the eye and eyelid before going to bed. 

Melaleuca Essential Oils

Melaleuca essential oil is very helpful to fight against the infection. But never get this essential oil directly in your eyes. It may cause burning. If it happens then put some drops of cold milk in your eyes to get relief from the burning.

How to use?

Take 1-2 drops of melaleuca and the same quantity of coconut or almond oil

Mix both the oils properly

Rub the oil around the over the brow bone, outside of the eye, and underneath the eye along the sinus cavities

Repeat this remedy several times in a day to get relief fast.

Lavender Essential Oils

Lavender essential oil is also very helpful to fight against the infection. It is one of the best remedy for pinkeye infection. But never get this essential oil directly in your eyes. It may also cause burning of the eyes. If it happens then put some drops of cold milk in your eyes to get relief from the burning.

How to use?

Take 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil and the same quantity of coconut or almond oil

Mix both the oils properly

Rub the oil around the outside of the eye, over the eye brow bone, and under the eyes along the sinus cavities

Repeat this remedy several times in a day to get relief fast.

Note: Be sure, you are using a high quality of essential oils. Cheap oils are not only less effective, but they can be harmful for your body.