Conjunctivitis is a contagious eye condition where there is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Symptoms include eye pain, burning, discharge of a sticky fluid, redness and blurred vision. Conjunctivitis is so contagious that contact lenses have to be removed during the infection and preferably replaced with new ones once symptoms subside.

Besides avoiding touching the infected region, frequent washing and your doctor’s medication, you can try conjunctivitis home remedies to treat and control the infection.

One conjunctivitis home remedy involves the use of calendula for reducing conjunctivitis itching and inflammation. Used as a local compress and eyewash, it is the perfect antiseptic to heal and soothe the irritation.

Another home remedy involves making an eyewash of 2 tsp. chamomile flowers, 2 cups of boiling water and a teaspoon of Oregon grape root. Mix them together and let to sit for 20 minutes, after which you have to cool, strain and use the mixture as an eyewash.

You can also try using a lotion of Vitamin A and applying it directly to the infected eye.

In case your eyes swell, try peeling a potato and cutting it into thin slices and placing it on the affected eye.

Fennel makes a great conjunctivitis home remedy as it helps in improving vision problems. Fennel can be eaten raw or made as a tea to use as an eyewash.

Eyebright herb as drops is much safer and effective as eye drops than commercial ones.

Similarly, the natural antibiotic and anti inflammatory properties of goldenseal make it effective in killing different kinds of bacteria and in reducing swelling in tissues.

Goldthread tea can be used as an eyewash to effectively treat the conjunctivitis inflammation and eye infection, while acting as a good pain reliever.

Another effective conjunctivitis home remedy involves making a cold infusion of marigold plant by placing it in water and using it as an eyewash for fast relief.

Mix about 200 ml spinach juice and 300 ml carrot juice and drink it every day for 10 days for a natural and effective conjunctivitis home remedy.

Also try drinking a mixture of a cup of Indian gooseberry juice and two teaspoons honey twice a day for at least a week.

Add a handful of dried coriander to 60 ml of water, and use the infusion for washing your eyes. This not only provides relief from the burning sensation, but also helps reduce the inflammation of the eyes.

Last, but not least, eating more of vitamin A and B2 foods and restricting alcohol consumption and smoking provides lots of relief from conjunctivitis. Also avoid sharing towels, pillows and handkerchiefs to prevent the spread of the infection. Moreover, your hanky and bedspread has to be changed frequently.

Preferably, use a herbal disinfectant soap to wash your face. You can also check the spread of the infection by wearing goggles, and keeping the goggles clean and neat at all times. Avoid sunlight and bright light as it irritates your eyes.

Though a conjunctivitis home remedy can effectively treat the condition, it is always better to consult your doctor if there are no changes in symptoms.