By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Pink Eye
Herbal creams for pink eye are topical treatments infused with natural ingredients that help alleviate symptoms of conjunctivitis, a common eye infection characterized by redness, itching, and discharge.
Examples of herbal creams include those containing aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
These creams can provide relief, improve vision, and reduce the risk of infection, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by pink eye.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for pink eye, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Echinacea purpurea
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Euphrasia officinalis
- 7. Plantago major
- 8. Symphytum officinale
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Hypericum perforatum
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for pink eye?
- What ailments similar to pink eye are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, help to soothe and calm the affected eye, reducing redness and swelling. Additionally, its natural antiseptic properties combat bacterial and viral infections that can cause pink eye, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of complications.
This natural remedy provides gentle, effective relief for pink eye sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with pink eye.
- Triterpenoids: They help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, alleviating symptoms of pink eye.
- Flavonoids: They possess antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that cause pink eye, thus preventing infection and promoting recovery.
- Nascent sesquiterpene lactones: They have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects, which help to reduce the severity of pink eye symptoms and accelerate the healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for pink eye.
- Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are used to make creams for pink eye due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm irritated conjunctiva.
- Seeds: The seeds of Calendula officinalis are used in creams for pink eye because they contain triterpenoids, which have antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing bacterial and viral infections.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used in creams for pink eye due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which helps alleviate symptoms of pink eye.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for pink eye.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried calendula officinalis flowers from a trusted supplier or your own garden after 2 weeks of blooming.
- Steep 2 cups of dried flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove solids.
- Mix 1 cup of beeswax with 1 cup of shea butter and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler at 160-180°f.
- Combine the infused liquid with 1 cup of distilled water and the cooled wax mixture to create the cream base.
2. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, help to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye. Additionally, Echinacea's immunomodulatory effects support the body's natural defense mechanisms, promoting a speedy recovery and reducing the severity of symptoms.
This natural remedy provides relief from pink eye's discomfort and promotes overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with pink eye.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with pink eye.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid present in Echinacea, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate pink eye symptoms such as redness and itching.
- Triterpene saponins: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye, promoting the healing process and reducing the risk of complications.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for pink eye.
- Flowers: They contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them effective in soothing and protecting the affected area.
- Roots: They are rich in echinacosides, which have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: They have a high concentration of caffeic acid derivatives, which possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat pink eye infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for pink eye.
- Harvest echinacea purpurea roots in late summer or early fall after the plant has finished blooming.
- Dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 hours.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 2 ounces of distilled water to create a strong infusion.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter with the infusion in a double boiler.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with pink eye because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel from the aloe vera plant contains compounds that reduce redness and swelling, providing relief from the discomfort associated with pink eye. Aloe vera's antimicrobial properties also help combat the bacterial or viral infection causing the condition, while its moisturizing properties soothe and calm the affected area, promoting quick healing and reducing the risk of complications.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for pink eye sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with pink eye.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone compound that helps reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, thereby alleviating the symptoms of pink eye.
- Saponins: Saponins are a type of triterpenoid glycoside that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the affected eyes and reduce discomfort associated with pink eye.
- Vitamins a and e: Vitamins A and E are potent antioxidants present in Aloe vera that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, promote healing, and reduce the risk of further infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the primary source of the gel and juice used in creams to treat pink eye due to their high content of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds are used to extract compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating pink eye.
- Barks: Aloe vera barks contain a high amount of aloin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which are used to treat pink eye and other eye infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for pink eye.
- Harvest 100g of fresh aloe vera gel from mature plants and rinse it with distilled water.
- Combine the aloe vera gel with 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add 20g of shea butter and 10g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for 30 minutes before whipping it.
- Transfer the whipped cream into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The root of Glycyrrhiza glabra contains compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which soothe the eyes and reduce redness. These compounds also help combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye, promoting faster recovery.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to calm and protect the eye, reducing discomfort and promoting a smooth healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with pink eye.
- Saponins: These triterpene saponins help with pink eye by reducing inflammation and combating bacterial infections, which are common causes of pink eye.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpene glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of pink eye, such as redness and swelling, and also exhibits antimicrobial activity.
- Flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams, particularly luteolin and kaempferol, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the eye from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with pink eye.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for pink eye.
- Roots: Roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with pink eye.
- Leaves: Leaves are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and protect the affected eye.
- Barks: Barks are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling in the eye.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for pink eye.
- Harvest 20-30 dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots that have been stored in an airtight container for at least 6 months.
- Combine 100g of the dried roots with 200ml of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the mixture has reduced to 50% of its original volume.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Mix 10g of beeswax with 20g of coconut oil and 20g of shea butter in a double boiler to create a smooth cream.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and inulin, work to reduce swelling and combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye. Additionally, the soothing and calming effects of dandelion help to ease discomfort and promote healing.
As a natural remedy, dandelion cream offers a gentle and effective way to alleviate pink eye symptoms, providing relief and promoting a speedy recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with pink eye.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with pink eye.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may be contributing to pink eye.
- Apolactone: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the irritated conjunctiva and reduce the risk of further infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: Their extracts are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and treat pink eye.
- Flowers: The dandelion flower extracts are often used for their antimicrobial properties to combat infections that cause pink eye.
- Roots: The root extracts contain compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with pink eye.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for pink eye.
- Harvest 100g of taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at peak potency during springtime.
- Dry the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 30°c for 2 hours.
- Infuse 20g of dried taraxacum officinale in 100ml of carrier oil at 60°c for 4 hours.
- Mix 10ml of infused taraxacum officinale oil with 20g of beeswax and 20ml of distilled water at 60°c for 10 minutes.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth cream texture in 5 minutes.
6. Euphrasia officinalis
Euphrasia officinalis, also known as eyebright, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The herb's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and glycosides, have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections that cause pink eye. Eyebright creams also have a soothing effect on the conjunctiva, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort.
The natural ingredients in eyebright creams provide a gentle and effective treatment option for pink eye, allowing for quick recovery and relief from symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis creams that help with pink eye.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Euphrasia officinalis have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce redness, swelling, and infection associated with pink eye.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: Phenylethanoid glycosides exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which contribute to soothing and calming the affected eye, thereby reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Euphrasia officinalis have potent antioxidant properties that help protect the eye from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of the conjunctiva, thus alleviating pink eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: They are rich in bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections associated with pink eye.
- Flowers: The flowers contain flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in soothing pink eye symptoms.
- Stems: They contain a combination of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected eye area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for pink eye.
- Harvest 500g of fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves in the early morning and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
- Steep 200g of the cleaned leaves in 1000ml of hot distilled water for 30 minutes then strain and discard.
- Combine 200g of beeswax with 300g of sweet almond oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Add 100g of the strained herbal infusion to the melted beeswax and oil mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into sterile containers and let it cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
7. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant contains compounds that reduce swelling and redness in the affected area, providing relief from the discomfort associated with pink eye. Additionally, the cream's ability to combat bacterial and viral infections helps to accelerate the healing process, reducing the duration and severity of the condition.
This makes plantain cream a popular natural remedy for pink eye.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with pink eye.
- Apolin: A triterpenoid saponin, Apolin helps reduce inflammation and soothe the eyes, thereby alleviating the symptoms of pink eye.
- Apolinoside: A triterpenoid glycoside, Apolinoside exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat the bacterial or viral infection causing pink eye.
- Apolin b: A triterpenoid saponin, Apolin B has been shown to possess strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, contributing to its potential in treating pink eye.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: The leaves of Plantago major are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Plantago major are used because of their antimicrobial properties, which can help in treating pink eye.
- Roots: The roots of Plantago major are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in reducing pink eye symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for pink eye.
- Harvest plantago major leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine 10 grams of dried plantago major leaves with 50 grams of base oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes to infuse the base oil.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and bottle it as herbal cream for topical use.
8. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as allantoin and rosmarinic acid, reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, making it an effective treatment for conjunctivitis. Additionally, comfrey's soothing and protective properties calm the irritated conjunctiva, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection.
This natural remedy provides relief from the discomfort and pain associated with pink eye.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with pink eye.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in comfrey, such as allantoin and rosmarinic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness associated with pink eye.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate symptoms of pink eye, such as itchiness and discharge.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpene, exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat bacterial or viral infections that cause pink eye, while also soothing the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: These leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and soothe the eye area.
- Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale contain mucilage, a natural substance that protects and lubricates the eye, promoting healing.
- Leaves : The leaves are also a rich source of antioxidants, which help to combat oxidative stress and promote the recovery of pink eye.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for pink eye.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of dried symphytum officinale root and leaves from a trusted supplier for 250 grams.
- Combine 250 grams of dried symphytum officinale root and leaves with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 6 to 8 hours to facilitate extraction of the active ingredients.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then filter the liquid through a coffee filter paper for 30 minutes.
- Mix 50 milliliters of the symphytum officinale extract with 50 grams of beeswax and 20 milliliters of vitamin e oil in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce swelling and calm irritation in the eyes. This makes it an effective natural remedy for soothing pink eye symptoms, including redness, itching, and discharge.
The cream's gentle and non-irritating formula also allows for easy application and absorption, providing quick relief from pink eye discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with pink eye.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with pink eye.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and heal the affected eye area while preventing infection.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, reducing redness and promoting the healing of the conjunctiva in pink eye cases.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for pink eye.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of chamazulene and apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties that help soothe and calm pink eye.
- Leaves: They are used due to their ability to provide a natural soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, which helps to reduce redness and discomfort associated with pink eye.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of fatty acids and other nutrients that help to moisturize and protect the delicate tissues around the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for pink eye.
- Harvest 30-40 matricaria chamomilla flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency and store in an airtight container.
- Infuse 200ml of carrier oil in a double boiler with 30-40 dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Mix 50g of beeswax with 50g of shea butter and 50g of coconut oil in a heat-resistant bowl.
- Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined and cooled slightly.
10. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Hypericum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with pink eye. The cream also exhibits antiseptic properties, effectively combating the bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye, promoting a faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.
Its soothing effects also alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with pink eye.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the symptoms of pink eye, such as redness and swelling, and prevent the spread of infection.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, promoting healing and soothing the irritated conjunctiva.
- Hyperforin: This alkaloid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye, while also reducing inflammation and promoting the healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for pink eye.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and anthraquinones, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Flowers: They contain hyperforin and hypericin, which are thought to possess antibacterial and antiviral properties.
- Stems: They contain a combination of flavonoids, anthraquinones, and other compounds, which may contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for pink eye.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves at the peak of their potency when flowers are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 35-40°c for 2-3 hours to preserve their properties.
- Combine the dried flowers and leaves with 100 grams of jojoba oil and 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 60-70°c for 10-15 minutes while occasionally stirring until the beeswax melts completely.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool before transferring it to a glass jar for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for pink eye?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with pink eye is a blend of aloe vera, calendula, and tea tree oil.
Aloe vera soothes and moisturizes the eye, while calendula reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Tea tree oil, with its antimicrobial properties, helps combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye. Apply a thin layer of this combination to the affected area multiple times a day to promote quick healing and reduce discomfort.
This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective alternative to conventional treatments.
What ailments similar to pink eye are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to pink eye that are treated with herbal creams are conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and styes.
Herbal creams containing ingredients such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the affected areas.
These creams can reduce redness, swelling, and discharge associated with these conditions, promoting faster healing and relief from discomfort.