While there are numerous over-the-counter treatments for irritated, infected eyes and eyelids, these products are often unnatural, leaving those who desire herbal, natural treatments with few options for ready-made relief. However, there are some natural remedies that can be made at home to help eyelid infections. These remedies are not intended to replace medical treatment however, so consult your doctor for proper treatment as soon as possible, as infections around the eye area can be dangerous if left untreated.
Cool, Used Tea Bags
According to Jethro Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939," used, cool tea bags can be applied to infected eyelids to help soothe irritation and redness. To use this treatment, steep two tea bags in 12 oz. hot water for 4 to 5 minutes and remove the tea bags, squeezing the liquid out of the bags between two teaspoons. Put the tea bags in a cup or bowl and place them in the freezer for 15 minutes. When the tea bags have fully cooled, place them on the eyelids, wrapped in a paper towel. Leave the tea bags on for 20 minutes before removing and discarding them. This treatment can be used as often as necessary to relieve irritation.
Lavender Essential Oil, Rose Essential Oil and Olive Oil Compress
According to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," lavender essential oil, rose essential oil and olive oil can be used to make a warm compress for infected eyelids. To make the compress, heat three tbsp. olive oil in a small saucepan until warm, but not hot. Add ¼ tsp. lavender essential oil and ¼ tsp. rose essential oil to the saucepan and stir to combine. Soak two small, clean cotton cloths in the oil mixture for two to three minutes. Place the warm cotton cloths on each eyelid and leave them on for 10 minutes in a reclining position. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and wash with a gentle cleanser after using this treatment. This remedy can be used once per day, and unused portions of this mixture can be stored in a cool, dark place for later use.
Chamomile Essential Oil, Calendula Essential Oil and Castor Oil
According to Colleen Kaye Dodt, author of "The Essential Oils Book: Creating Personal Blends for Mind & Body," a mixture of chamomile essential oil, calendula essential oil and castor oil can be used as a topical remedy for eyelid infection. To use this natural mixture, combine ½ tsp. chamomile essential oil, ½ tsp. calendula essential oil and 8 tsp. castor oil in a small bottle and shake to combine. Gently massage a very small portion of the oil mixture onto the eyelids and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with cool, clean water. There is no need to use soap unless the oils bother your skin. Unused portions of this mixture should be stored in a cool, dark place for 60 days.
References
- "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
- "The Essential Oils Book: Creating Personal Blends for Mind & Body"; Colleen Kaye Dodt; 2006
