Your eyelids contain meibomian glands that produce oils that become part of your tear film. At times, the duct of the gland may have a blockage, resulting in a bump on the eyelid, a condition commonly known as a stye. The blocked duct may cause localized redness, pain and swelling. You may wish to talk with your doctor about herbal treatments to reduce these symptoms, and if appropriate, your doctor can recommend the best herbal remedies for your condition.
Ginger
Extract from ginger root contains properties that may help reduce inflammation. This may not resolve the blocked oil gland, but ginger may help reduce associated swelling and discomfort. Talk with your doctor to determine if ginger may reduce stye-related inflammation and to discuss any potential side effects. Ginger could affect the clotting properties of your blood, and this may pose dangerous side effects if you take blood thinners or have a blood disorder. If you think ginger may help relieve your symptoms, your doctor will tell you how much ginger to use and when to stop using the supplement.
Licorice Root
Prolonged blockages may result in an infection in the gland, and if this occurs, licorice root extract may help resolve the infection. Research has not determined the exact benefits of licorice root in relation to treating infections. However, you may elect to talk with your doctor about the risks of trying this supplement. High doses may increase your blood pressure or cause preterm labor in pregnant women, warns the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Your doctor can determine if you have a risk for these or other side effects and tell you the appropriate dose of licorice root you will need.
Compress
To help clear the blockage, your doctor may recommend using a warm compress to loosen the matter in the gland. Make an easy compress by holding a washcloth under warm water and then wring out the excess water. Hold the cloth against your closed eyelid for around 10 minutes and then remove the cloth. Your doctor will tell you how often to apply a compress but will most likely recommend you use a compress a few times each day.
Considerations
Avoid using herbs or other supplements before you discuss potential risks with your doctor, who can help you determine if an herb may react with a medical condition or a medication you take. If your stye worsens or does not show any sign of improvement over a few weeks, your doctor may recommend a quick, in-office procedure to drain the gland. This procedure will often clear the stye, but you may continue to experience some tenderness and swelling as the area heals.
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