There are several types of pink eye (conjunctivitis), including allergic, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, which all share two similar main symptoms: irritation and red eyes.
Each type of pink eye should be treated appropriately and safely, whether using at-home or prescription remedies. Always consult an eye doctor before you begin any kind of treatment, even if it's natural.
If you’re leaning toward natural remedies for pink eye, be warned that many have not been clinically proven to be effective or approved by the FDA, even if it seems like some people swear by them.
Some important initial steps to take include the following:
- Remove contact lenses (switch to glasses for the duration of the pink eye infection)
- Avoid known irritants and allergens
- Wash hands frequently
- Do not share personal items, since pink eye is often very contagious
SEE RELATED: Pink eye (conjunctivitis) treatment
Natural remedies for pink eye
While the following may be advertised as natural remedies for pink eye, always talk to an eye doctor before starting any treatment for an eye infection on your own. Some of the following remedies could actually make your infection worse or hurt your eyes in other ways.
Essential oils
Essential oils are not suggested to be used in or around the eyes, it can cause irritation and burning, something you’re likely already experiencing as a result of your pink eye.
You might see essential oils like these advertised for eye infections:
- Peppermint oil
- Tea tree oil
- Lavender oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Myrrh oil
However, there is no research supporting that these help with pink eye or any other eye infection.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil, though not an essential oil, has also been suggested as a pink eye ointment to relieve symptoms such as dryness and inflammation. One older study on rabbits' eyes found that virgin coconut oil could have mild anti-inflammatory effects, but there's no strong evidence that it helps humans with pink eye or other eye conditions.
Avoid applying coconut oil on or near your eyes, since it could make the irritation worse.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is sometimes promoted for health benefits, like lowering cholesterol and boosting skin health. While ACV has several healthy qualities, it hasn't been approved to treat any specific health problems.
Can you use apple cider vinegar for pink eye? No. Though it is widely discussed on the internet, applying ACV in or near your eyes, even if it has been diluted, is not a proven or safe remedy for conjunctivitis. It can cause even more irritation and even damage your cornea.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used for centuries as an ingredient in traditional medicine.
It's often used as a powder, although it can also be found in pills and capsules, as an extract or in its original root form, which is used in cooking. Turmeric teas and milks are also popular ways to consume the plant. For the majority of people, turmeric is safe to eat or drink, but supplements should only be used with a doctor's guidance.
Researchers are looking at ways curcumin (a compound in turmeric) could one day help reduce eye inflammation, but there is no strong evidence it works for conjunctivitis.
Turmeric and curcumin have not been approved for the treatment of pink eye. It is not recommended to place them on or near your eyes.
Homeopathic remedies for conjunctivitis
There have been few studies on the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies for conjunctivitis, and the body chemistry of each individual can influence how well homeopathic remedies work in general.
Some homeopathic practitioners may suggest remedies such as:
- Belladonna
- Euphrasia
- Argentum nitricum
- Sulphur
- Pulsatilla
However, there is no reliable evidence to support remedies like these for pink eye. Consult an eye doctor or primary care doctor before beginning a homeopathic treatment.
Herbal remedies for pink eye
Herbal remedies should also be used with caution when it comes to treating pink eye. Herbs may interact with other herbs or medicine already being taken for pink eye, as well as medications for unrelated conditions, which can heighten side effects or do more harm than good.
There is no strong evidence that these or other herbs can treat pink eye:
- Chamomile
- Marigold
- Plantain
- Eyebright
- Fennel seed
You might also see an herbal eyewash recommended for conjunctivitis, but these aren't proven treatments either, and can carry risks of their own. Always consult an eye doctor doctor before you use any herbal remedies.
Green tea for pink eye
A polyphenol found in green tea called EGCG has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. However, green tea is not proven to treat any type of pink eye.
While a bag of green tea may not heal your pink eye, it may help your eyes feel more comfortable. For example, placing a chilled green tea bag over your eye for a little while could help them feel less dry and inflamed.
Remember: Tea bags should always be cooled to a safe temperature before coming into contact with the skin. If you only have pink eye in one eye, avoid touching both eyes with the same tea bag since it could transfer germs to the healthy eye.
Natural supplements for pink eye prevention
Some supplements have been said to help your immune system, but there isn't strong evidence that they specifically prevent pink eye. However, by enriching your diet with certain nutrients, you can support your immune system and eye health, which in turn could help prevent future infections.
Vitamins and nutrients often associated with immune health may include:
Vitamin A
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Though these may help your overall health, they will not cure an existing infection. Getting these nutrients as part of a balanced diet is generally recommended, but talk to a doctor before you start taking any supplements.
Additional considerations for conjunctivitis
Other remedies to consider include cold or warm compresses and over-the-counter artificial tears to help relieve pink eye symptoms. Talk to your eye doctor about these options.
It is also recommended to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
If your conjunctivitis persists for an extended period of time or your symptoms are severe, consult an eye doctor for the next appropriate steps. In some cases, you may need prescription conjunctivitis treatment.
You can also take active steps to help prevent pink eye in the future, such as washing your hands often and avoiding touching your eyes.
To support your overall eye health, stay up to date with routine eye exams, and don’t hesitate to schedule an additional exam if you begin experiencing problems with your vision.
