Eye infections can occur for a number of reasons, but they are usually caused by viruses and bacteria. Symptoms of an eye infection include swelling, watering and redness. Treatments for eye infections, such as potent eye drops, involve solutions that combat bacteria. Another treatment incorporates the use of chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are flowering plants from the Asteraceae family native to China, where they have been used medicinally since ancient times. The flowers have anti- inflammatory properties and their natural vitamin C content fights germs and infections. A little tea made from chrysanthemums will make an eye wash that can combat infections.
Step 1
Purchase chrysanthemum and an eye wash glass. Chrysanthemum can be found in tea bag form and in dried bud form. Either of these forms will work to make tea. Chrysanthemum tea bags can be found in grocery stores in the tea and coffee isle. Dried chrysanthemum buds can be found in health food stores or herb shops. Another way to purchase chrysanthemum is online, as there are several websites that cater to teas or herbs. Many sell chrysanthemum exclusively. Eye wash glasses can be found in health food stores and can be found in some first aid kits. Other places you can purchase them include an eye doctor's office and Internet stores.
Step 2
Make a cup of tea using chrysanthemum. If tea bags were purchased, follow the instructions on the packaging. Usually, this means steeping a bag in hot water for around 5 minutes. If dried buds were purchased, put 10 to 20 buds in a teapot or pan, and add 1 cup of hot water. Let the buds steep for 5 minutes. Allow the tea to cool down before application to prevent damage to the eye.
Step 3
Strain the tea into a cup to remove particles. Pour the strained tea into a eye wash glass until the liquid level comes close to the top of the glass. Bend over and place the cup opening directly onto the infected eye so that you form a seal. Hold the glass firmly to the eye and tilt your head back. Rinse the eye by repeatedly opening, closing and rolling the eye in the tea for a minimum of 5 minutes. For more serious infections, a 20-minute rinse is recommended. Do this twice a day or until symptoms reside. If the problem persists for more than a few days, contact a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Chrysanthemum tea
- Eye wash glass
