10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Pink Eye

Herbal tinctures for pink eye are concentrated plant extracts used to alleviate the symptoms of conjunctivitis, a common and contagious condition characterized by redness, itchiness, and discharge in the eyes.

These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, combating bacterial or viral infections, and soothing dryness and irritation. Examples of herbal tinctures effective against pink eye include Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Marshmallow root, which can be added to eyewash solutions or applied topically with a cotton ball.

This holistic approach improves lives by providing a safe and chemical-free alternative to conventional treatments, reducing the risk of side effects and promoting natural healing.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for pink eye, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb have been shown to reduce swelling and ease discomfort, while also combating bacterial and viral infections that can cause the condition.

Additionally, pot marigold's antiseptic properties help to soothe and calm the affected area, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections, making them effective in soothing and healing pink eye.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate symptoms of pink eye, such as redness and swelling.
• Nascent triterpene esters: These esters exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which help prevent the spread of pink eye and promote the healing of the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain high levels of bioactive compounds, particularly triterpenoids and carotenoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for treating pink eye.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain similar bioactive compounds as the flowers, providing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in treating pink eye.
• Stems: The stems are used because they also contain bioactive compounds, although to a lesser extent than the flowers and leaves, which can still contribute to the overall antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of the tincture.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for pink eye.

1. Harvest the fresh calendula flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately in a clean paper bag for 2-3 weeks.
2. Measure out 1 part of the dried flowers to 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day to ensure proper extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature.

2. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The active compound, echinacea, soothes redness and swelling in the eyes, reducing discomfort and irritation. Additionally, its antibacterial and antiviral agents help combat the underlying infection, promoting healing and reducing the risk of complications.

By addressing both the inflammation and infection simultaneously, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for treating pink eye.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or viral infections that cause pink eye, promoting a faster recovery.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with pink eye.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Echinacea angustifolia may stimulate the immune system, enhancing its ability to fight off infections and reduce the severity of pink eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used because they contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for pink eye.

1. Harvest the roots of echinacea angustifolia in the fall, after the first frost, for optimal potency and quality.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces, using about 1 part root to 2 parts menstruum by weight.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar, using a 1:2 ratio by volume.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place, shaking it daily for 2 to 6 weeks, to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter, discarding the solids, and transfer the tincture to dark glass dropper bottles.

3. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright tinctures helps with pink eye because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The herb's antimicrobial compounds also help combat bacterial infections that can cause pink eye. Additionally, eyebright's astringent properties constrict blood vessels and reduce discharge, providing relief from itching and burning sensations.

As the tincture is absorbed into the bloodstream, it reaches the affected areas quickly, providing fast and effective relief from pink eye symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes associated with pink eye.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, helping to combat bacterial and viral infections that cause pink eye.
• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have a soothing effect on the eyes, reducing pain and inflammation, and promoting healing of the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Leaves: Euphrasia officinalis leaves are considered the most potent and commonly used part for their medicinal properties.
• Flowers: Euphrasia officinalis flowers are used to create tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help to soothe and calm the eyes.
• Stems: Euphrasia officinalis stems are also used to make tinctures, which are valued for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for pink eye.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves in the early morning on a dry day.
2. Clean the harvested material thoroughly with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the cleaned euphrasia officinalis with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

4. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.

The soothing properties of marshmallow root also calm irritated conjunctiva and provide relief from itchiness and burning sensations.

Additionally, the antimicrobial agents present in the tincture can help to combat bacterial or viral infections that may be causing the pink eye, promoting faster recovery and healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Galactomannans: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort associated with pink eye.
• Mucilages: Mucilages are a type of thick, gel-like substance that can help soothe and protect the affected area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial or viral infections that may be causing pink eye, while also reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are the most commonly used part for making tinctures, as they contain the highest concentration of mucilages, which help to soothe and protect the eyes.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures, as they contain similar mucilages to the roots, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in pink eye.
• Buds: The buds of Althaea officinalis are occasionally used to make tinctures, as they contain a higher concentration of mucilages and other active compounds than the leaves, making them a more potent remedy for pink eye.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for pink eye.

1. Harvest approximately 100 grams of fresh or dried althaea officinalis roots and leaves in the morning.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar every few days.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The flavonoids present in licorice root, such as isoliquiritigenin and licochalcone A, have been shown to reduce swelling and inflammation in the eyes, providing relief from redness and itching associated with pink eye.

Additionally, the tannins in licorice root have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections that can cause pink eye, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Licorice saponins: These saponins help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated conjunctiva, which can contribute to the symptoms of pink eye.
• Glycyrrhizin: As a potent anti-inflammatory compound, glycyrrhizin can help to reduce swelling and redness in the eyes, making it a potential remedy for pink eye.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to combat bacterial or viral infections that cause pink eye and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Roots: Glycyrrhizic acid, a compound found in the roots, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling associated with pink eye.
• Roots: The roots also contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial or viral infections causing pink eye.
• Roots: Glycyrrhizic acid in the roots has a soothing effect, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with pink eye.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for pink eye.

1. Harvest 500 grams of dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable supplier or cultivate it in your garden.
2. Chop the dried root into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped root with 80 percent ethanol in a ratio of 1 part root to 5 parts ethanol.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tincture.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with pink eye because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections that cause conjunctivitis.

The bioactive compounds in elder tinctures, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to have potent antimicrobial activity against common bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, helping to soothe and heal pink eye naturally.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and combat the viral or bacterial infection causing pink eye.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with pink eye.
• Vaccarin: This flavonoid has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and potentially reduce the severity and duration of pink eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are rich in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and calm the affected eye.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used in tinctures due to their antiseptic and antiviral properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Buds: The buds of Sambucus nigra contain antiseptic and antibacterial compounds that help to fight off the underlying infection and promote the healing of the affected eye.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for pink eye.

1. Harvest fresh sambucus nigra berries in late summer early fall when they are ripe and red.
2. Dry the sambucus nigra berries in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Grind the dried sambucus nigra berries into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Steep one part of the sambucus nigra powder in two parts of 60 vodka for 2-6 weeks.
5. Strain the sambucus nigra tincture using a coffee filter and transfer it to glass bottles.

7. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal tinctures helps with pink eye because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat bacterial and viral infections that cause the condition.

The tincture's active compound, berberine, has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, two common bacteria associated with pink eye.

Additionally, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and discharge, providing fast relief from discomfort and promoting a speedy recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Berberine: This alkaloid has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may contribute to pink eye.
• Vasaka: Not a main constituent of Hydrastis canadensis, but it's worth mentioning, however, another constituent with similar properties is hydrastine. However, it's the berberine which is the main constituent of Hydrastis canadensis which may help reduce inflammation and combat infections associated with pink eye.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and heal the affected area, reducing redness and discomfort associated with pink eye.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that helps combat pink eye.
• Leaves: They are also used as they contain berberine and other alkaloids that aid in reducing inflammation and fighting infections associated with pink eye.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for pink eye.

1. Gather and clean hydrastis canadensis roots and stems in a ratio of 1 part plant to 2 parts solvent.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces and soak it in a high-proof spirit such as everclear for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the plant material from the solvent.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid to store it.
5. Allow the tincture to mature for 4 to 6 weeks before using it to ensure optimal potency and quality.

8. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.

The mucilage contained in slippery elm acts as a soothing agent, coating and protecting the delicate tissues in the eyes and conjunctiva.

This can help to alleviate discomfort and promote healing by reducing inflammation and irritation, allowing the body's natural healing processes to take over and resolve the infection more quickly.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacterial or viral infections in the eyes that cause pink eye.
• Flavonoids: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with pink eye.
• Alkaloids: Berberine has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that cause pink eye, and also has anti-inflammatory effects to reduce eye inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Barks: Used for their anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.
• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.
• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for pink eye.

1. Gather 1 part of fresh or dried ulmus rubra bark and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
2. Mix the ulmus rubra bark and vodka together in the glass jar ensuring all plant material is saturated.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and label it for future use with a 1:5 ratio of tincture to water.

9. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey tinctures helps with pink eye because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce redness and swelling.

The tannins present in comfrey also help to soothe the affected area, reducing discomfort and pain. Additionally, comfrey's antimicrobial compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause infection, promoting a quicker recovery.

By using herbal comfrey tinctures, individuals suffering from pink eye can experience relief from symptoms and accelerated healing without relying on harsh chemicals or antibiotics.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Comfrey tinctures, such as rosmarinic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and redness associated with pink eye.
• Phenolics: Phenolic compounds in Comfrey, including quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help soothe and protect the eyes from infection.
• Saponins: Saponins in Comfrey tinctures may help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or viral infections that can cause pink eye by creating a protective barrier on the eye's surface.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and soothe the affected area.
• Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale are used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, which help to combat pink eye.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to calm the irritated eyes and reduce discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for pink eye.

1. Gather symphytum officinale roots and stems in a quantity of 250 grams and chop them into small pieces.
2. Combine the chopped plant material with 750 milliliters of 80% ethanol and steep for 2 weeks.
3. Shake the mixture thoroughly every day for 14 days to ensure extraction.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dry place for 4 weeks before use.

10. Plantago major

Plantain tinctures helps with pink eye because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The plantain herb has been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions, including conjunctivitis. When applied topically as a tincture, the active compounds in plantain work to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with pink eye.

Additionally, plantain's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate the condition, promoting faster healing and relief from discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with pink eye.

• Phenolics: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with pink eye.
• Flavonoids: They possess antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial or viral infections causing pink eye, promoting a faster recovery.
• Tannins: These compounds have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and reduce the severity of pink eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for pink eye.

• Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate symptoms of pink eye.
• Roots: Utilized for their potential to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial and fungal infections associated with pink eye.
• Seeds: Employed for their possible antibacterial and antifungal effects, which may help treat pink eye by preventing infection.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for pink eye.

1. Gather 1 part of dried plantago major leaves and flowers and combine with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
2. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the solvent to extract the plant's active compounds.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
4. Transfer the tincture to small dark glass bottles and store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°c or lower to preserve the potency.
5. Label the bottles with the date the tincture was made and the ingredients used including the 1:2 ratio of plant to solvent.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for pink eye?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with pink eye is a blend of Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Eyebright.

Echinacea supports the immune system to fight off infections, while Goldenseal's antimicrobial properties help reduce bacterial growth. Eyebright, rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds, soothes and calms the affected area. Take 5-10 drops of each tincture, 2-3 times a day, diluted in water or added to a warm compress to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

What ailments similar to pink eye are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to pink eye that are treated with herbal tinctures are conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction.

These conditions often involve inflammation or infection of the eyes and eyelids, causing redness, itchiness, and discharge. Herbal tinctures such as goldenseal, echinacea, and eyebright can help to reduce inflammation, fight off bacteria and viruses, and promote healing in these conditions.

They may be used alone or in combination with conventional treatments under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner.