A bacterial eye infection can cause inflammation, irritation and burning of the eye. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends treatment with a mild preparation of boric acid and water. The boric acid acts as a minor antibiotic to cleanse the eye and help reduce the infection. Certain herbs may also help to relieve both the cause and the discomfort associated with bacterial eye infections. While boric acid and herbs cannot treat viral eye infections, which typically must run their course, these treatments can still soothe the eye until the infection resolves completely. Always check with your doctor before using any herbal products.
Boric Acid Treatment
Step 1
Boil 1 tsp. of boric acid in 1 cup of water. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Alternately, purchase a pre-mixed boric acid solution at a pharmacy.
Step 2
Place a glass or plastic eye cup in boiling water for five minutes to sterilize the eye cup. Allow the eye cup to cool to room temperature.
Step 3
Pour the boric acid solution into the eye cup.
Step 4
Remove any contact lens in the eye. Lean forward and place the eye cup over the infected eye.
Step 5
Lean back while holding the eye cup firmly to your face. Allow the boric acid solution to wash over your eye. Leave the cup in place for one minute.
Step 6
Lean forward and remove the eye cup. Blot the eye with a sterile gauze pad. Dispose of the boric acid solution in the cup. Wash the cup thoroughly.
Herbal Treatment
Step 1
Place 1 tsp. of equal parts of the herbs eyebright, chamomile, fennel seed, marigold or plantain in the combination of your choice in boiling water.
Step 2
Steep the herbs for five to 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Step 3
Soak a sterile gauze pad with the liquid. Apply to the infected eye for 10 minutes three to four times each day.
Things You'll Need
- Boric acid
- Eye cup
- Gauze pad
- Eyebright, chamomile, fennel seed, marigold or plantain herbs
