Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, involves the inflammation of the conjunctiva (a membrane that lines the inner eyelid and covers the eyeball).
It is caused by infections or allergies and is characterized by symptoms like swelling, redness, itchiness, and discharge.
The condition is typically mild and resolves on its own within a few weeks, but it can be uncomfortable for many.
Fortunately, many home remedies can help relieve pink eye symptoms and speed up recovery. One such remedy is applying cooled tea bags to the infected eyes.
This article dives into the potential benefits of using tea bags for pink eye and how to use them for effective relief.
Do tea bags help with pink eye
Tea bags can provide relief for pink eye symptoms. While there are few studies to justify this claim, tea bags have been used for years for relief from eye concerns.
Certain types of tea, such as chamomile, green, and black, may have anti-inflammatory properties that may help discomfort from pink eye.
Using warm, damp tea bags as a compress on the affected eye can be soothing.
However, it’s important to note that while tea bags can offer some relief, they are not a substitute for professional treatment.
Consulting a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment is essential for managing pink eye effectively.
Recommended read: Looking for more natural ways to get rid of pink eye at home? Check out our article — Exploring Quick Pink Eye Home Remedies
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Tea bags for pink eye

Tea bags, such as chamomile, green, and black tea, may help provide relief from mild viral pink eye symptoms.
They contain properties that may help reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by this condition.
Let us look at the potential benefits of tea bags as a natural pink eye remedy:
Chamomile tea bag for pink eye
Chamomile tea, also known as manzanilla tea in Spanish, can be a calming and soothing remedy for pink eye.
The anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile tea can help reduce red eyes, swelling, and discomfort associated with pink eye.
It also has inherent antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial or microbial infections.
Chamomile is usually well-tolerated and safe, making it a gentle choice for individuals looking for a natural remedy.
Using caffeine-free manzanilla tea for pink eye may provide effective relief.
Explore the various essential oils used for pink eye treatment with our article: Essential Oils for Pink Eye: Are They Safe?
Green tea bags for pink eye
Green tea can also help relieve the symptoms of pink eye. According to Frontiers in Nutrition, green tea extract has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit eye diseases.
In addition, green tea is abundant in antioxidants, which also help inhibit inflammation.
To use green tea for pink eye, apply a cooled green tea bag to the infected eye for 10 to 15 minutes. It may help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Understand more about pink eye antibiotics with our article: Pink Eye Antibiotics: Effective Way to Get Rid of Conjunctivitis
Black tea bags for pink eye
Black tea contains tannins and antioxidants and may help relieve pink eye symptoms.
The astringent qualities of tannins can help minimize inflammation, providing relief from irritation.
In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of black tea may aid in reducing redness and swelling.
Black tea also has antimicrobial effects, which can inhibit bacterial growth in cases of bacterial pink eye.
Applying a warm black tea compress to the infected eye provides relief and relaxation.
Recommended read: Identifying the cause of pink eye can help find the ideal treatment option for relief. Learn more in our article — Uncovering Pink Eye Causes: A Comprehensive Guide
How to use tea bags for pink eye
Using tea bags for pink eye involves a simple and calming process. It involves using tea bags (chamomile, black, or green), warm water, and a clean cloth.
Follow these steps for safely and effectively using a tea bag for pink eye:
- Opt for caffeine-free tea bags and ensure they are clean and free from additives
- Boil a cup of water and steep a tea bag in it for a few minutes
- Gently remove the tea bag from the cup and let it cool down until it is comfortably warm to the touch
- Squeeze out excess liquid from the tea bag and make sure it doesn’t drip
- Lie down in a comfortable position and close your eyes
- Place the warm tea bag on the infected eyes for about 10 to 15 minutes
- Dispose of the tea bag after use and do not reuse it
- Repeat this process multiple times throughout the day as necessary for relief. It is important to use a fresh tea bag for each application
Want to know more about over the counter pink eye medications? Read our article: Exploring Over The Counter Pink Eye Medicine: Relief at Your Fingertips
Key takeaways
Tea bags can complement traditional pink eye treatment with their natural and soothing effects.
Caffeine-free tea bags, such as chamomile, green, and black tea, have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce pink eye symptoms.
Nevertheless, it is essential to seek guidance from a medical professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Check out: Restasis Ophthalmic Emulsion
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tea bags help with eye infections?
Tea bags may help relieve eye infections, such as pink eye, red eye, and styes, due to their natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Do tea bags help pink eye?
Certain caffeine-free tea bags, like chamomile, green, and black, can offer relief from pink eye symptoms.
What is the fastest way to fix pink eye?
While there is no instant remedy for pink eye, following prescribed treatments based on the condition’s cause can help fight the infection faster.
How do you cure pink eye fast?
Timely diagnosis and proper treatment, which may involve prescribed antibiotics, are essential for a quick recovery from pink eye.
How long do you leave a tea bag on pink eye?
Leave a warm tea bag on the affected eye for 10-15 minutes. This allows the natural properties of the tea to work on the pink eye.
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