What are the best essential oils for treating styes. How can you use tea tree oil to get rid of an eye stye. Which natural remedies are most effective for painful eyelid bumps. What are safe ways to treat a stye at home.

Understanding Styes: Causes and Symptoms

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a painful, red bump that forms on or near the edge of the eyelid. It occurs when an oil gland becomes clogged with excess oil, dirt, or bacteria. Styes can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but they are generally harmless and often resolve on their own within a week or two.

Common symptoms of a stye include:

• A red, swollen bump on the eyelid
• Pain and tenderness in the affected area
• Watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• A feeling of grittiness in the eye

While stress can contribute to the development of styes, maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is crucial in preventing their occurrence. Avoiding the use of eye makeup during an active stye and replacing potentially contaminated cosmetics afterward can help prevent recurrence.

The Power of Tea Tree Oil for Stye Treatment

Tea tree oil has gained significant popularity as a natural remedy for various skin conditions, including styes. Its powerful antibacterial properties make it an excellent choice for treating these painful eyelid bumps.

How does tea tree oil work against styes?

Tea tree oil contains compounds that effectively combat bacteria, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Its natural antiseptic properties help to cleanse the affected area and prevent further infection.

To use tea tree oil safely for stye treatment, it’s essential to dilute it properly. Never apply pure tea tree oil directly to your eyelids or near your eyes, as it can cause irritation. Instead, opt for specially formulated products that contain diluted tea tree oil, such as:

• Tea tree foaming face wash
• Eye makeup remover with tea tree oil
• Pre-diluted tea tree oil solutions for facial use

These products are designed to be gentle on the delicate skin around your eyes while still harnessing the beneficial properties of tea tree oil.

Essential Oils for Stye Relief: Beyond Tea Tree

While tea tree oil is a popular choice, several other essential oils can be effective in treating styes and promoting eye health. Let’s explore some of these alternatives:

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus oil has been used for centuries to treat various skin ailments, including styes. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help reduce swelling and fight infection. However, eucalyptus oil has a strong fragrance that some people may find overwhelming, so it’s important to use it cautiously and in a properly diluted form.

Lavender Essential Oil

Known for its calming scent, lavender oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for eyelid bumps. When diluted appropriately, it can help soothe the affected area and promote healing. Lavender oil is generally well-tolerated, but as with all essential oils, it should be used with care around the eyes.

Clove Essential Oil

Clove oil is both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, making it an excellent choice for treating painful eyelid bumps. Its analgesic properties can help alleviate discomfort associated with styes. To use clove oil safely, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it to the affected area.

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon oil is renowned for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which can be helpful in managing styes. Its refreshing scent is an added bonus. As with other essential oils, lemon oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before use and applied carefully to avoid direct contact with the eye.

Natural Oils for Stye Treatment: Coconut and Castor Oil

In addition to essential oils, certain natural oils can be effective in treating styes and promoting overall eye health. Two popular options are coconut oil and castor oil.

Coconut Oil: A Versatile Remedy

Organic, unrefined coconut oil is a favorite among natural health enthusiasts for its numerous benefits. When it comes to stye treatment, coconut oil offers several advantages:

• Antibacterial properties to fight infection
• Antifungal action to prevent secondary infections
• Anti-inflammatory effects to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Moisturizing properties to keep the skin hydrated

To use coconut oil for stye treatment, simply wash your hands thoroughly and apply a small amount to your eyelids. Repeat this process several times a day. However, be aware that coconut oil can clog pores in some individuals, so discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions.

Castor Oil: The Unsung Hero

Castor oil is another natural remedy that can be beneficial for stye treatment. When choosing castor oil, opt for organic, hexane-free varieties to ensure purity and safety. Castor oil offers several benefits for eye health:

• Hydrating properties to soothe dry, irritated skin
• Anti-inflammatory effects to reduce swelling
• Potential antimicrobial action to combat infection

To use castor oil, wash your hands and apply a small amount directly to your closed eyelids. You can reapply as often as needed throughout the day.

Safe and Effective Home Remedies for Stye Relief

While essential oils and natural oils can be effective, there are several other safe home remedies you can try to alleviate stye symptoms and promote healing. Here are some additional options:

Warm Compress Therapy

Applying a warm compress to the affected eye is one of the most commonly recommended treatments for styes. This simple remedy can help in several ways:

• Increases blood circulation to the area, promoting healing
• Helps to open up the clogged gland, allowing it to drain naturally
• Reduces pain and discomfort
• Softens any hardened oils that may be blocking the gland

To create a warm compress, soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water and hold it gently against the closed eyelid for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process 3-4 times daily until the stye improves.

Tea Bag Treatment

Using tea bags as a warm compress can provide additional benefits due to the antioxidants present in tea. Both green tea and black tea can be effective for this purpose. Here’s how to use tea bags for stye treatment:

1. Boil water and let it cool until it’s comfortably warm
2. Soak a tea bag in the warm water
3. Gently apply the tea bag to the affected eyelid
4. Hold it in place for 10 minutes
5. Repeat this process 5 times per day

The combination of warmth and antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Gentle Massage

Once the stye has opened and started to drain, you can gently massage the area to help express the contents and speed up the healing process. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching the affected area, and be careful not to apply too much pressure.

Preventing Styes: Tips for Maintaining Eye Health

While knowing how to treat styes is important, preventing them from occurring in the first place is even better. Here are some tips to help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of developing styes:

• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, especially before touching your face or eyes
• Remove eye makeup thoroughly before going to bed
• Replace eye makeup and cosmetic tools regularly to prevent bacterial buildup
• Avoid sharing eye makeup or towels with others
• Clean your eyelids regularly with a gentle, eye-safe cleanser
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and healthy lifestyle habits
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes unnecessarily
• Use clean, fresh contact lenses and follow proper hygiene practices if you wear them

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing styes and maintain overall eye health.

When to Seek Professional Medical Advice

While most styes can be treated effectively at home, there are situations where it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Consider seeking medical attention if:

• The stye persists for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• You experience severe pain or swelling
• Your vision becomes affected
• You develop a fever or other signs of systemic infection
• You have recurrent styes or other eyelid infections
• You have a weakened immune system or other underlying health conditions

A healthcare provider can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include prescription antibiotics or, in rare cases, surgical drainage of the stye.

Combining Natural Remedies for Optimal Stye Treatment

While individual remedies can be effective, combining multiple approaches often yields the best results for stye treatment. Here’s a comprehensive strategy that incorporates various natural remedies:

1. Start with a warm compress or tea bag treatment to soften the stye and encourage drainage
2. Follow up with a gentle cleansing using a tea tree oil-based face wash or diluted tea tree oil solution
3. Apply a small amount of coconut oil or castor oil to the affected area to provide moisture and antibacterial benefits
4. Consider using a diluted essential oil blend (such as lavender and eucalyptus) for additional anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects
5. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily, always ensuring proper hand hygiene before and after treatment

Remember to be patient, as styes can take several days to heal completely. Consistency in your treatment approach is key to achieving the best results.

By utilizing a combination of these natural remedies and maintaining good eye hygiene practices, you can effectively manage styes and promote overall eye health. However, always listen to your body and discontinue use of any treatment that causes irritation or discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.

Best Essential Oils for Stye Treatment | How To Get Rid Of An Eye Stye

7 Best Essential Oils for Painful Eyelid Bumps

1. Tea Tree Essential Oil

We discuss tea tree essential oil all the time, because it has great antibacterial properties that make it helpful for many eyelid conditions. Because tea tree is so strong and must be diluted before using, we always recommend using a prepared tea tree oil solution meant for use on the face. For example, Heyedrate Tea Tree Foaming Face Wash and Heyedrate Eye Makeup Remover are great examples that can be used while you have this condition.

2. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus leaves have been used for centuries for skin ailments, and it can be used in this case as well. Just like tea tree oil, it must be diluted properly, but it can be beneficial in managing an eyelid bump. In addition to this, it does have a strong fragrance, so some people may be sensitive to this particular oil.

3.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has anti-inflammatory properties that make it beneficial for those with eyelid lumps and bumps.  Like other essential oils, this one needs to be well diluted before using but can help manage eyelid bumps. 

4. Coconut Oil

We love coconut oil! First of all, make sure to use only organic, unrefined coconut oil, as this is less comedogenic than regular coconut oil (meaning it won’t clog pores). This oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties  that can be of benefit for many situations. Simply wash your hands and apply a small amount to your eyelids, repeating several times per day. This oil can clog pores in some people, so make sure to discontinue use if you believe this is an issue for you.

5. Castor Oil 

Castor oil is another oil that can be useful, but make sure you use organic, hexane free castor oil. Just like coconut oil, it has hydrating properties and can assist in supporting your eye health. After washing your hands, apply castor oil directly to your closed eyelids and reapply as often as desired.

6. Clove Essential Oil

Clove is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, so it can be super beneficial for a painful eyelid bump. It may help calm both the area by simply being mixed with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and applied to the area several times per day.

7. Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon is well known for its antiseptic properties and it is also antibacterial, making it great for painful bumps and inflammation. If you have the oil handy you can dilute it with a carrier oil and apply to your eyelid bump using the same method noted above.

Our Pick: Tea Tree Foaming Face Wash with organic coconut oil, organic olive oil, and 19 other plant extracts and botanicals

12 Quick And Safe Ways To Get Rid Of A Stye

Styes are irritating and painful and every person suffering from one of these red bumps on the eyelid quickly searches for a treatment to take it away safely and fast. It is important that any treatment you try is safe, as styes are so close to the eye. Avoid anything that doesn’t seem safe, no matter how effective it sounds. Your eyesight is worth a thousand styes. These bumps are usually caused either by stress or when an oil gland becomes clogged with excess oil, dirt and/or bacteria. With this in mind, the first thing to do is keep your face clean and do not apply makeup until the stye is gone. You may even want to replace your eye makeup in case any forms of bacteria are lingering on the brushes. Here are 12 safe and effective ways to get rid of a stye that you can try at home. (Remember, even though these are safe to try, always avoid direct contact with the eye.)

1. Tea Bags

Soaking a washcloth in warm water and applying it over the eyes has been the most often repeated remedy for a stye, but why not add the antioxidants of tea to make it more effective? You can use green tea or black tea for this treatment and since everyone has tea at home, you will not have to go out to buy any ingredients.

1. Boil water and let it cool until you can handle it on your skin
2. Dip your teabag of choice into the water and apply to the affected eyelid
3. Hold the teabag against the eyelid firmly for 10 minutes
4. Repeat 5 times per day

2. Coconut Oil

Photo credit: Source

Although coconut oil has turned into a beauty and health trend, and everyone has heard about it too much over the past couple of years, it is still an effective treatment for skin issues such as styes. This oil is antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It will help to heal your stye and also reduce the pain.

1. Put a half cup of coconut oil into a clean container (this is to keep it separate from the rest of the oil – if you use it for cooking, you certainly don’t want to mix it with anything you apply to your stye)
2. Wash your hands and face (including the stye) and once everything is dry, apply a small amount of oil to the stye
3. Let it sit and sink in – do not wash it off
4. Repeat as many times as you can, but give the oil time to sink into the skin between repetitions

3. Chamomile Leaves

If you have loose leaf chamomile tea at home, you can try this remedy. If you want to try the chamomile leaves but don’t have any and don’t feel comfortable going out with a stye, you can use a regular chamomile tea bag instead.

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of chamomile leaves in a cup of hot water (herbal tea should not be added to boiling water)
2. Let it sit for 15 minutes and strain
3. Take a clean washcloth and dip a corner into the tea water
4. Apply to the stye area until the cloth is dry
5. Repeat, using a different area of the cloth as many times as you like
6. Do not re-use any part of the cloth that has touched the stye

4. Turmeric

This spice does not only add color and flavor to recipes, but it also takes away inflammation to skin problems such as styes. Turmeric has been used as a healing spice for many years, and it is a very effective and safe way to get rid of a stye. If your stye is too close to your eye to use the paste comfortably, you can make a tea out of the powder instead.

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric with enough water, coconut oil or castor oil to make a paste
2. Wash your hands, clean the stye with warm water and wash hands again
3. Apply the paste to the stye area and leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water
4. Repeat up to 4 times per day
5. Or mix 2 teaspoons of turmeric into 1 cup of hot water and make sure it is cool enough to touch on skin
6. Dip the corner of a clean washcloth into the mixture and apply to the stye area until it is dry
7. Repeat, using a clean area of the cloth up to 5 times per day

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

If you want to try this stye treatment, any apple cider vinagar will do, but the best choice is Bragg’s, organic apple cider vinegar. ACV is known for being antibacterial and antiseptic, which will help your stye to heal faster.

1. Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts filtered or cooled, boiled water
2. Put in fridge to cool for 3 hours
3. Apply to the stye area using a clean cloth or makeup pad
4. Hold on the stye until the cloth or pad is dry
5. Repeat up to 5 times per day

6. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a very powerful essential oil that has helped many people to eliminate all kinds of skin and fungal issues. This oil will also get rid of a stye, and it can be used on its own or as an addition to any other treatment on this list. If you don’t have tea tree oil at home, this one is worth going out for, even with a stye.

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of 100% natural and pure tea tree oil with 2 tablespoons of filtered or cooled, boiled water
2. Place in fridge to cool for 2 to 3 hours
3. Using a clean cloth or makeup pad, apply to the stye area and let it sink into the skin
4. Repeat 3 times per day
5. If you want to try other remedies on this list along with tea tree oil, just add a few drops of the oil to any other solution

7. Coriander Seeds

Photo credit: Source

Using this spice properly will help to reduce swelling and help your stye to heal faster. It is recommended that you use this treatment along with at least one other on this list, such as a warm compress or tea bags.

1. Add 1 tablepoon of coriander seeds to 2 cups of water and bring to a boil
2. Take off the heat and let the seeds soak for an additional 30 minutes
3. Strain and let the water cool
4. Apply to the stye area with a clean cloth up to 3 times per day

8. Salt

Salt has healing properties that will help your stye to go away faster. It will also reduce any pus that has gathered in the stye, which will cause the swelling to go down. You can use any type of salt, but Himalayan or sea salt are the best choices.

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of ground salt into 1 cup of filtered water and stir well
2. Dip a clean cloth into the water and gently apply to the stye
3. Repeat every couple of hours

9. Aloe Vera

Photo credit: Source

The aloe vera plant has many healing properties and is used to help sunburns, heal cuts and wounds and is also an effective treatment for styes. This plant is antibacterial and will reduce swelling and redness brought on by a stye. It is best to take the gel straight from an aloe plant, but if you only have access to bottled gel, you can use that as well.

1. Squeeze the gel out of an aloe leaf into a clean container
2. Apply a small amount of the gel directly to the stye
3. Let it sit and sink into the skin
4. Repeat up to 4 times per day

10. Homemade Antibacterial Cream

There are many natural ingredients that are full of antibactierial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Some of these are mentioned individually here, but you can also combine a few of them together to make a powerful, antibacterial cream for your face. you can apply this both as a preventative measure and as a treatment for styes.

1. In a bowl, combine a half cup of coconut oil and a half cup of either olive oil or jojoba oil
2. Add 10 to 15 drops of tea tree oil and an optional 5 drops of lavendar oil for added benefits
3. Mix together, then add a binding agent such as arrowroot powder or beeswax until the mixture forms a cream-like texture
4. To use it as a preventative measure, apply this to the face a couple of times a week
5. To treat a stye, apply it to the affected area 3 times per day and let it sink into the skin

11. Oil of Oregeno

Depending on the cause of the stye, it may keep coming back, even long after it goes away. Some people have experienced recurring styes for years. The reason for this is usually an infection that needs antibiotics to go away. If you are looking for a natural antibiotic, studies have shown oil of oregano to be as powerful and in some cases, even more powerful than medical antibiotics. This oil will not kill off good bacteria like the other antibiotics do, and it is safe to take.

1. Adults, put 3 drops of oil of orgeno under the tongue and hold it there as long as you can (up to 5 minutes) before swallowing
2. Repeat 3 times per day until the stye is gone
3. Alternatively, you can add 3 drops into a tablespoon of water and swallow

12. Warm Compress

As mentioned before, warm compresses are the most widely used treatment for styes. It is the safest and easiest way to get rid of a stye, so if you don’t have the time or the energy to put together the other remedies, you an try this one. The warm water will help to reduce the swelling and your stye should heal in 4 days at most.

1. Heat filtered water by a stove or a kettle until it is warm
2. Soak a clean washcloth in the water and wring out excess water
3. Put the cloth over your eyes and relax for a few minutes
4. Repeat as many times as you like

Featured photo credit: Oleg Malyshev via shutterstock.com

How Tea Tree Oil Can Enhance Your Ocular Hygiene Routine

Eye care professionals understand the importance of having a daily ocular hygiene regimen for patients who are experiencing eye irritation, dryness, discomfort, or other symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. Many patients are unaware that the lack of cleanliness of their eyelids and eyelashes may be contributing to the dry eye symptoms that they are experiencing and often don’t have the necessary eyelid hygiene products to keep them clean. 

At I-MED Pharma, we’re a leading provider of dry eye and ocular surface disease products. Our line of I-LID ’N LASH® products can enhance your patients’ ocular hygiene regime.  I-LID ’N LASH® PLUS is recommended for patients requiring more intensive cleansing of the periorbital region. A unique quality of I-LID ‘N LASH® PLUS is that it contains tea tree oil (TTO), a natural oil that is renowned for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of tea tree oil and how it can enhance your patients’ ocular hygiene regimen.

What Is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil is a natural oil that is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca Alternifolia tree, a woody, shrub-like tree which grows in Australia. Tea tree oil contains nearly 100 different components and it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-protozoal, and anti-bacterial properties. TTO is a safe and effective ingredient. Its natural skin-sanitizing benefits cleanse away dirt, bacteria, and toxins, leaving the skin feeling healthier and more hydrated.

How Do Tea Tree Oil Products Benefit Ocular Health?

Due to its natural ability to help kill bacteria, demodex mites, and other culprits that can lead to eyelid infection, inflammation, and dry eye, tea tree oil has received much attention from the optometry and ophthalmology communities. Eye care professionals can help patients who frequently experience eye inflammation, styes, ocular rosacea, and symptoms of dry eye by recommending ocular hygiene products that are formulated with tea tree oil. These products can be used to help reduce the symptoms of these eye problems in a safe, effective, and healthy manner.

Tea Tree Oil Can Help Defend Against: 

• Demodex – When patients have a buildup of itchy, sticky, yellowish discharge at the base of the eyelashes, it could be a result of a demodex infestation. Demodex mites are tenacious and unwanted eight-legged invaders that can reside in hair follicles and sebaceous glands in the lid margins. If not properly diagnosed and treated, a demodex infestation can lead to eye itching, burning, dryness, irritation, or watering; patients may also experience blurry vision, the feeling of heavy eyelids, and other discomforting symptoms. Fortunately, tea tree oil also has excellent concentration-dependent Demodex-killing properties.

• Blepharitis – Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids in which they become red, irritated, and itchy with dandruff-like scales that form on the eyelashes. Blepharitis is very common, especially among patients who have oily skin, dandruff, or acne rosacea. Patients with blepharitis may experience a gritty or burning sensation in their eyes, excessive tearing, itching, dry eyes, red and swollen eyelids, or crusting of the eyelids. The anti-infective properties of tea tree oil can effectively reduce inflammation and improve other Blepharitis symptoms that patients may be experiencing. 

• Dry Eye Disease – Demodex and blepharitis are both conditions that, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a common cause of evaporative dry eye. MGD occurs due to a blockage, or some other abnormality of the meibomian glands that renders them unable to secrete enough oil into the tears. These canal-like glands are in the eyelids and often become clogged, leading to inflammation. Adding a consistent eyelid and eyelash regimen with a tea tree oil formulation can help patients keep their eyelids and eyelashes clean and clear while helping manage conditions such as Demodex, Blepharitis, and Dry Eye Disease.

Why Use Tea Tree Oil Formulated I-LID ’N LASH® Products?

With the incredible benefits tea tree oil offers for ocular health, patients suffering from eye inflammation, dryness, or discomfort resulting from conditions like Demodex, Blepharitis, and Dry Eye Disease should consider incorporating tea tree oil formulated products into their ocular hygiene regime. The I-LID ’N LASH® PLUS line of ocular hygiene products offers the solution that eye care professionals with these patients need. I-LID ’N LASH® PLUS cleansing wipes are formulated with 5% TTO and can be used daily to clear ocular debris from the eyelids and eyelashes.  Daily use of the I-LID ’N LASH® wipes is recommended to help mitigate the risk of future dryness and discomfort. While these dry eyelid wipes do not contain TTO, they are effective in maintaining lid and lash health for patients with dry eyes or sensitive skin.

Tea tree oil formulated products are increasing in popularity in the optometry and ophthalmology communities. Eye care professionals who want to provide their patients with safe and effective products for enhancing their ocular hygiene routine should consider I-MED Pharma’s line of I-LID ’N LASH® ocular hygiene products. For more information, check out our line of I-LID ’N LASH® products.

The use of tea tree oil in treating blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction

Oman J Ophthalmol. 2018 Jan-Apr; 11(1): 11–15.

Thuraya Noaman Maher

Almadar Medical Centre, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Almadar Medical Centre, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Address for correspondence: Dr. Thuraya Noaman Maher, Almadar Medical Centre, P. O. Box: 80789, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. E-mail: moc.liamtekcor@rehamayaruht

This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 License, which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon the work non-commercially, as long as the author is credited and the new creations are licensed under the identical terms.

This article has been cited by other articles in PMC.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction are chronic inflammatory conditions with overlapping pathophysiology and symptomatology. Both microbial infection and seborrhea contribute to the pathophysiology and both may benefit from treatment with tea tree oil (TTO). We evaluated the therapeutic effect of eyelids scrubbing with TTO in a group of patients with lid margin disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Forty patients were recruited. Half of them received lid scrubbing with a TTO formula (Naviblef™) and the other half was treated by massage and cleansing. The effect on ocular surface symptoms, tear film stability, and lid signs was evaluated.

RESULTS:

All patients receiving TTO improved in symptoms, signs, and tear film stability, and the improvement was statistically significant at P < 0.001. Only five patients in massage group showed improvement. The changes in massage group were not statistically significant at P < 0.001. TTO is very effective in relieving symptoms and improving tear film stability and lid signs.

Keywords: Blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, ocular surface disease index, tea tree oil

Introduction

Blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) are chronic inflammatory conditions that involve the eyelid margins and meibomian glands, respectively. They have a complex pathogenesis and may result in alteration of the tear film, eye irritation, and ocular surface disease.[1] Their pathophysiology shows considerable overlap, with microbial infection and seborrhea playing the major role in the development of the surface disease. [2]

The clinical picture is also overlapping with no pathognomonic symptom or sign. Tea tree oil (TTO) has anti-infective and wound-healing properties and has proven effective in treating MGD associated with Demodex.[3]

In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of eyelids scrubbing with TTO in a group of patients with lid margin disease (blepharitis/MGD).

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted in compliance with good clinical practices, applicable local regulations, and the Declaration of Helsinki. Forty patients with blepharitis/MGD were recruited between October 2015 and June 2016. Inclusion and exclusion criteria are shown in . The diagnosis was based largely on the recommendation of the International Workshop on MGD.[4]

Table 1

Study inclusion and exclusion criteria

Patients were equally divided into two groups: TTO group and massage and cleansing group, which will be referred to as massage group. Informed consent was obtained from each patient. At enrolment, patients completed a self-evaluation questionnaire on ocular surface disease and the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) was calculated for each patient. A baseline slit lamp examination included examining the eyelids for margin hyperemia, presence of collarettes, presence of greasy scales or debris on eyelashes, and eyelash loss or misdirection. We also assessed the meibomian gland orifices and foam collection in the tear meniscus and at the lateral canthus. The ocular surface was assessed for the presence of greasy tear film, conjunctival hyperemia, and conjunctival and corneal staining. Schirmer 1 test with anesthesia scores was calculated for two eyes of each patient. Tear break-up time (TBUT) of the worse eye at baseline was considered for evaluating the effect of treatment on tear film stability. Using fluorescein dye, an illuminated slit lamp, and cobalt blue filter, the time needed till the first appearance of a dark, dry spot after a complete blink was measured. TBUT was checked twice in each eye and the two readings were averaged.

In TTO group, each patient was examined four times: at enrolment, then after 30, 45, and 60 days from beginning the treatment, while in massage group, they were examined at enrolment and after 30 and 60 days from initiating the treatment. At each follow-up visit, they were reevaluated for symptoms and lid signs. In the last checkup (60 days after starting treatment), OSDI and TBUT were also evaluated.

Patients in TTO group were prescribed a commercially available TTO eyelid scrub (Naviblef™ Eyelid Foam/Novax Pharma/Italy) to be applied 2 times daily in the 1^st month (30 days).

The method of application was explained to the patients. The foam was to be sprayed on clean fingers; then, while eyes were kept closed, eyelashes and eyelid margins were to be rubbed with the foam for 60–90 s. After each application, eyes and eyelids were to be rinsed thoroughly with clean water. The frequency was reduced after the first follow-up visit to 1 time daily and was further reduced to 1 time every other day after 45 days of starting treatment. A preservative-free lubricant was prescribed 4 times daily after the scrub.

In the massage group, patients were advised about using warm compresses and performing eyelid massage for 5 min 4 times daily, in addition to cleansing the lid margins with mild (baby) shampoo and cotton buds 4 times per day, followed by preservative-free lubricants 4 times daily.

Primary outcome measures were a decrease in OSDI from baseline and an increase in TBUT. The secondary outcome measure was improvement in lid signs.

Results

To determine the statistical significance of the improvement in OSDI and TBUT scores, the paired t-test with a two-tailed distribution was performed. A level of P = 0.01 was assumed significant to compare the results of both TTO group and the massage group before and after treatment. Excel 2016 was used to draw [Figures and ] and to perform all the mean and standard deviation calculations used to express the OSDI, TBUT, and age records and to perform the statistical analysis.

Tear break-up time scores before and after treatment

Ocular surface disease index scores mean before and after treatment

Eleven men and nine women were enrolled in TTO group. Their ages ranged between 39 and 68 years. Mean age was 51.47 ± 9.24 years. Nineteen of them completed the study; one female patient dropped out after developing contact dermatitis.

At baseline, in the TTO group, the mean of OSDI score was 47.83 ± 8.37, with 95% confidence interval ranging between 43.82 and 51.83. TBUT ranged between 5 and 8 s with a mean of 6.68 ± 0.84 s and a 95% confidence interval of 6.28–7.08. Posttreatment OSDI scored a mean of 8.71 ± 3.99 and the 95% confidence interval was 6.8–10.62. The TBUT improved to 14.47 ± 1.78 s ranging from 11 to 18 s with 95% confidence interval of 13.62–15.32. The change from baseline was statistically significant for both outcome measures at P < 0.001, and the conversion rate was 100%.

By the end of the study, all patients in TTO group reported subjective improvement in their symptoms notably light sensitivity, grittiness, soreness, discomfort during reading or night driving, and while using visual display units. One female patient complained of eye irritation and was found not to follow the instructions carefully as she kept her eyes open while massaging the lids. She was re-instructed regarding proper application and showed good improvement after that. Another female patient developed contact dermatitis in the upper eyelid as she scrubbed the entire area of the lid and not strictly the eyelid margin, and for that, she was excluded from the study. All patients were able to reduce the frequency of lubrication after 1 month.

In the massage group, there were 10 females and 10 males. Their age ranged between 43 and 70 years with a mean of 52.94 ± 9.31 years. Three male patients dropped out due to poor compliance.

Baseline OSDI mean was 44.34 ± 6.83 with 95% confidence interval of 40.88–47.80. Baseline TBUT ranged between 5 and 8 s with a mean of 6.5 ± 0.92 and 95% confidence interval of 6.04–6.96. After treatment, the mean for OSDI became 30.05 ± 8.86 with a 95% confidence interval of 25. 56–34.53. TBUT ranged between 5.5 and 14 s with a mean of 8.35 ± 2.94 and the 95% confidence interval was 6.86–9.84. The changes in OSDI and TBUT were not statistically significant at P < 0.01 (P = 0.03, P = 0.01, respectively). The conversion rate was 29.4%. Only five patients improved subjectively. Improvement was mostly noticed in grittiness, soreness, and while watching TV, although they mentioned that commitment to treatment was not easy for them. None of the patients in this group including those who improved was comfortable reducing the frequency of lubrication. Figures and represent the pre- and post-treatment TBUT and OSDI scores for the two groups, respectively.

Data about lid signs in both groups at baseline and at conclusion of the study are shown in . Only signs that were positive in the study patients at inclusion are included.

Table 2

Eyelid signs at baseline and at conclusion of study for tea tree oil and massage groups

Discussion

Lid margin disease is multifactorial. Both commensals and infective bacteria or the toxins produced by them may contribute to the pathologic course of blepharitis/MGD. The bacterial components may include Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Propionibacterium acnes, Corynebacterium sp., and Moraxella.[5,6] Infestation of the bases of eyelashes and follicles with Demodex mites can also cause blepharitis.[7,8,9,10] Demodex mites have been found in young adults, but the incidence of infestation increases with age.[11]

De Venecia and Siong found Demodex in patients with MGD, anterior blepharitis, and mixed blepharitis in an incidence of 85%, 95%, and 97%, respectively.[12] Symbiosis or commensalism between mites and microbes could be part of the pathogenesis of MGD. Obstruction of the meibomian glands by plugging solidified secretion also plays an important role in MGD development.[13] It is well agreed that it is the interrelation of many factors which results in inflammation of eyelids, and in real-life scenarios, bacteria usually exist in complex communities interacting with other organisms and rarely exist on their own. [14]

Because of this interaction and due to the considerable overlap in the pathophysiology and the clinical picture, effective management of lid margin disease should address the multiple underlying factors to positively reflect on patients’ quality of life. Yet, there is little evidence in supporting a curative or universal approach to blepharitis management.[15] Treatment is generally based on severity, suspected etiology, availability of therapeutics, as well as the local clinical practices.

TTO is a natural oil distilled from the leaf of Melaleuca alternifolia that has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiprotozoal properties in addition to an anti-inflammatory effect. It is effective against S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans and is known to be highly effective in eradicating Demodex.[7,16]

The formula of TTO that was used in our study contains extracts of TTO, extracts of pharmaceutical grade chamomile which has soothing and decongestant properties, and Vitamin B5 which is known to have moisturizing properties.

In this study, patients who used TTO enjoyed the positive effect shortly after starting the treatment with a significant improvement in OSDI and TBUT in all of them. The compliance was very good because of the rapid and noticeable change in symptoms that they felt. Typically, patients described having fresh eyes upon awakening in the morning. The need to use eye lubricants was greatly reduced after 1 month of daily application of the scrub. No antibiotic or steroid eye ointment was required to control symptoms or improve lid signs. In this, we agree with Hirsch-Hoffmann et al., who reported symptomatic improvement in 40.5% of their patients who used Naviblef^®. Among the six different systemic and topical modalities of treatment they used, Naviblef^® was the most effective in improving symptoms; this occurred despite a very low Demodex eradication rate (6%).[17] Koo et al. also found TTO eyelid scrub effective in improving subjective ocular symptoms in patients with Demodex blepharitis. [18] Our results also agree with those of Gao et al., who described symptomatic relief and notable reduction of inflammatory signs in 10 out of 11 patients they treated with TTO scrub and shampoo.[19] In our study, the female patient who developed contact dermatitis after applying the foam over the entire upper lid reaching the eyebrows was concomitantly using different kinds of cosmetic lotions which may have contributed to the development of irritation. Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported in about 5% of those who use TTO.[20] This is however infrequent when it is used in a low concentration.

In the massage group, the mean difference in OSDI was very low, indicating that the number of patients who improved was low. Most patients confirmed that they performed the massage and cleansing at least once daily, but adherence to the instructions regarding the frequency, techniques, and duration of the massage session was greatly variable because they found it tedious and time-consuming. This may explain the poor benefit from treatment and the poor compliance. The report of the subcommittee of the International Workshop on MGD noted that although recommendations for the performance of lid warming and lid hygiene are commonly made, warm compress therapy is poorly standardized, the precise technique varies greatly both in duration and in frequency of lid warming and cleansing, and patients commonly develop their own methods of performing lid hygiene regardless of instructions.[1]

TTO scrub strips the lid margin from the irritating meibum and thus opens the plugged meibomian glands without the need for meibum expression, which is usually felt unpleasant by the patient. It also acts against a wide range of microorganisms that may possibly be present. The broad-spectrum therapeutic effect of TTO makes it an ideal and practical option to treat lid margin disease, especially when facilities to diagnose the underlying cause are unavailable. The wound-healing and soothing effects attributed to it and the rapid response adds to its affectivity in relieving symptoms and makes patients better at complying with treatment.

Conclusion

Further studies that include a large number of patients over prolonged time are important to define the role and the best practice in using TTO in ocular surface disease.

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

References

1. Nichols KK, Foulks GN, Bron AJ, Glasgow BJ, Dogru M, Tsubota K, et al. The international workshop on meibomian gland dysfunction: Executive summary. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2011;52:1922–9. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]2. Seal DV, Wright P, Ficker L, Hagan K, Troski M, Menday P, et al. Placebo controlled trial of fusidic acid gel and oxytetracycline for recurrent blepharitis and rosacea. Br J Ophthalmol. 1995;79:42–5. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]3. Thode AR, Latkany RA. Current and emerging therapeutic strategies for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) Drugs. 2015;75:1177–85. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]4. Tomlinson A, Bron AJ, Korb DR, Amano S, Paugh JR, Pearce EI, et al. The international workshop on meibomian gland dysfunction: Report of the diagnosis subcommittee. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2011;52:2006–49. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]5. Driver PJ, Lemp MA. Meibomian gland dysfunction. Surv Ophthalmol. 1996;40:343–67. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]6. O’Brien TP. The role of bacteria in blepharitis. Ocul Surf. 2009;7:S21–2. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]7. Gao YY, Di Pascuale MA, Li W, Liu DT, Baradaran-Rafii A, Elizondo A, et al. High prevalence of Demodex in eyelashes with cylindrical dandruff. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2005;46:3089–94. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]9. Kim JT, Lee SH, Chun YS, Kim JC. Tear cytokines and chemokines in patients with Demodex blepharitis. Cytokine. 2011;53:94–9. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]10. Lee SH, Chun YS, Kim JH, Kim ES, Kim JC. The relationship between Demodex and ocular discomfort. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2010;51:2906–11. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]12. De Venecia AB, Siong RL. Demodex sp. infestation in anterior blepharitis, meibomian-gland dysfunction, and mixed blepharitis. Phillip J Ophthalmol. 2001;36:15–22. [Google Scholar]13. Pinna A, Piccinini P, Carta F. Effect of oral linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid on meibomian gland dysfunction. Cornea. 2007;26:260–4. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]14. Zinder SH, Salyers AA. Microbial ecology-new directions, new importance. In: Boone DR, Castenholz RW, editors. Bergey’s Manual of Systematic Biology. Vol. 1. New York: Springer-Verlag; 2001. pp. 101–9. [Google Scholar]16. Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree) oil: A review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006;19:50–62. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]17. Hirsch-Hoffmann S, Kaufmann C, Bänninger PB, Thiel MA. Treatment options for Demodex blepharitis: Patient choice and efficacy. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd. 2015;232:384–7. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]18. Koo H, Kim TH, Kim KW, Wee SW, Chun YS, Kim JC, et al. Ocular surface discomfort and Demodex: Effect of tea tree oil eyelid scrub in Demodex blepharitis. J Korean Med Sci. 2012;27:1574–9. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]19. Gao YY, Di Pascuale MA, Elizondo A, Tseng SC. Clinical treatment of ocular demodecosis by lid scrub with tea tree oil. Cornea. 2007;26:136–43. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]20. Studdiford J, Stonehouse A. Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) National Institutes of Health, Department of Family & Community. Medicine. Faculty Papers. Paper 12. 2007. [Last accessed on 2016 Sep 16]. Available from: http://www.jdc.jefferson.edu/fmfp/12 .

Does tea tree oil need to be refrigerated? – Mvorganizing.org

Does tea tree oil need to be refrigerated?

Tea tree oil has a shelf life of between one and two years. If stored properly in a cool, dark place, it will last for closer to two years. However, even if it is stored poorly, it will likely stay useful for a year or more. Tea tree oil does not need to be refrigerated.

Can I apply tea tree oil overnight?

1. Tea tree oil clears the skin. “Allow the solution to stay on your skin for a few hours or overnight then rinse your face with warm water,” she recommends. “This treatment can be repeated daily and should help stop breakouts.”

Does Tea Tree Oil close pores?

Tea tree oil for acne can work its way into skin pores, helping to disinfect the skin. This essential oil can help unblock the sebaceous glands by penetrating deep into the skin and unclogging the pores. Tea tree oil also works as a moisturizing solvent and can be utilized as a cleanser.

Does tea tree oil penetrate the skin?

Tea tree oil is a powerful antimicrobial. It kills many bacteria and fungi. The full strength oil has the ability to penetrate through intact skin to destroy deeper pockets of pus.

Does tea tree oil work on everyone?

tea tree oil doesn’t work for everyone since it made me break out (i used it properly) but it works for almost everyone so you should try… Find this Pin and more on Skin Care and Beauty by Zoe M.

Is tea tree oil actually good?

When used topically, tea tree oil is generally safe and might be helpful in treating acne and other superficial skin infections. Avoid oral use of tea tree oil, which is toxic when swallowed.

How long does tea tree oil take to work?

Tea tree oil can take about 12 weeks for your skin to reap the benefits. Once you know how to use tea tree oil on your face (properly), you can expect to experience clearer skin within a few months. Your skin needs time to adjust to this new ingredient, and over time, your skin will naturally produce less acne and oil.

Is tea tree oil bad for eyes?

With the incredible benefits tea tree oil offers for ocular health, patients suffering from eye inflammation, dryness, or discomfort resulting from conditions like Demodex, Blepharitis, and Dry Eye Disease should consider incorporating tea tree oil formulated products into their ocular hygiene regime.

Is tea tree oil good for eye bags?

Tea tree oil also has anti-inflammatory properties, and has been shown to reduce eye puffiness when applied in a gel formulation. Astringent oils such as lemon oil may also be effective in tightening up loose eyelid skin to reduce puffiness.

Is Tea Tree Oil Good for eyelash growth?

Tea Tree Oil For Eyelash Growth Use a cleanser infused with tea tree oil to unblock follicles around the eyes, kill eyelash mites, and promote healthy eyelash growth. Never apply undiluted tea tree oil directly onto your eyes.

Is tea tree oil good for eye stye?

50% tea tree oil or tea tree shampoo has been tried as a treatment as well. Tea tree oil, however, can be very irritating to the eye and should be used with caution. While uncomfortable and annoying, Chalazion are usually not dangerous. They can persist for months and wax and wane.

Will coconut oil help a stye?

Use Coconut Oil One of the main ways coconut oil helps treat styes is by lessening inflammation. In addition to having anti-inflammatory effects, coconut oil is antibacterial and antifungal. It’s also completely safe to use around your eyes.

Is Turmeric Good for styes?

A wonder antiseptic, turmeric can be used for treating topical as well as internal infections. The healing properties of this herb make it an effective remedy for treating stye. Mix a pinch of turmeric with some water and rinse your eyes with this at least twice a day.

Do eye drops help styes?

4. OTC stye remedies. Many drugstores sell eye drops that may help relieve the pain of styes. These remedies will not heal the stye, but they may help ease the pain.

Can certain foods cause styes?

An increasing number of children are getting red bumps on their eyelids, or styes, accounting for about 20 percent of eye infection cases, due to a diet of high-fat foods, such as fried chicken and french fries, an ophthalmologist said yesterday.

Why am I getting styes all of a sudden?

Styes are caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland or hair follicle on your eyelid. These glands and follicles can get clogged with dead skin cells and other debris. Sometimes, bacteria get trapped inside and cause an infection.

What vitamin is good for styes?

Supplements including Vitamin C, Zinc, Vitamin A and a short course of the herbal preparation, Echinacea, may be used – particularly if there is a general tendency to infections. Recurrant sties can occur for no obvious reason.

Is a stye caused by lack of sleep?

The cause of most styes is unknown, though stress and a lack of sleep increase risk. Poor eye hygiene, such as not removing eye makeup, can also cause a stye. Blepharitis, a chronic inflammation of the eyelids, may also put you at risk of developing a stye.

Eye Stye & Treatment | Eye-Revive

Stye – Infection of one of the glands in the lid margin

A stye is an infection of the glands on the inside or outside margin of the eyelid.  It typically appears as red bump (abscess filled with pus) on the eyelid. Indications of styes are redness, swelling, tenderness and pain around infected area of the eye.  Commonly caused by a blockage of oil glands near the eyelashes and is tender and can be painful. You may be more prone to styes is you have skin conditions such as acne rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis, have a medical condition such as diabetes and/or never remove makeup properly or use old contaminated makeup.

If you are unsure of whether you have a stye or not, look for symptoms like redness, localized pain and swelling, a bump on the lid and irritation of the eye. You may also experience blurred vision, discomfort blinking and crusting of the eyelid margins. It’s important to keep your hands clean when touching your eyes and to gently cleanse the eye with water regularly to prevent this condition.  Some people get more than one stye at a time.

There are two types of styes: external hordeolum and internal hordeolum. Both are usually caused by staphylococcus a type of bacterial.  Styes are not contagious.  A chalazion is a cyst that develops in the oil glands near the eyelid.  People with recurring styes may develop staph blepharitis, a chronic eyelid infection.  Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid caused by infection, allergies, and untreated chalazion.

The best way of treating a stye is through the application of hot warm compresses with our Stye Kit and gentle cleansing with Tea Tree Foaming facial cleanser. The hot moist compress helps the clogged gland to open and drain the white or yellow discharge.  If the gland opens, gentle message around the stye to help it drain.  Do not squeeze it.  Use our Stye Care Kit and Tea Tree Foaming facial cleanser to treat your styes twice daily unless otherwise instructed. Remember to wash hand thoroughly.  If there is no improvement see your Optometerist.

How to get rid of blepharitis by great home remedies

Blepharitis is a description of a disease when the oil glands inside your eyelashes are clogged because of some types of infection. It will cause irritated sensation. In a simple meaning, blepharitis means eyelid inflammation. There are two kinds of blepharitis, namely, anterior and posterir. Anterior is external eyelid inflammation whereas posterior occurs inside your eyes.
What are causes of blepharitis?
The causes of eyelid inflammation vary however, there are several common factors can be mentioned are dandruff on your eyebrows or scalp, eyelash lice, allergic response to makeup or side effects of medicines. Plus, some types of bacteria infection as well as disruption of oil glands can lead to eyelid inflammation too.
What are symptoms of blepharitis?
You may experience itchy eyelids, swelling and irritating sensation in your eyelids or red eyes. Other factors that can be diagnosed with eyelid inflammation are that intensified sensitivity to the light or crusting inside your eyelashes.
Blepharitis may be quite troublesome and irritated and even worse, it can affect deeply your vision. Thus, it is recommended that you should seek for remedies as soon as possible whenever you are diagnosed with eyelid inflammation. If left untreated, blepharitis can cause severe eye infection.
Otherwise, you can try several below therapies to treat blepharitis. Let’s take a look at those helpful remedies.

1. Keep your eyelid healthy

Apparently, the first thing to remember is to maintain your eye’s health as hygiene as possible. Prevention is better than cure. Since this can be long – lasting problems, you should pratice keep your skin at a healthy condition to prevent further damages. A study conducted in the Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews in 2012 reports that the more hygiene the eyelid is, the higher the chance of symptom relief will be provided for anterior or posterior blepharitis.
Moreover, frequently cleanse your eyelids will do the best to keep your eye clean as well. Or you can adop a cleaning solution suggested by your doctor. This can inhibit crust from gathering on the eyelashes, oil residue or scaly patches as well.

2. Warm Compress

Known as another extremely effective method to treat blepharitis, warm compress will aid you in providing relief as well as loosening scales in your eyelashes. Moreover, it can dilute oil ooze from the oil glands, thereby the risk of extended lump will be reduce tremendously. In addtion, blood circulation will be stimulated, so that healing process can be speeded up.
How to use:
Soak a towel in warm water and squeeze out the excessive water.
Gently place the towel and rub on the eyelid.
Repeat the process for several times till you notice the improvement.
Small reminder: use separated washcloths for each eye.

3. Tea Tree Oil

A very useful essential oil can be used to treat blepharitis is tea tree oil. Using tea tree oil, the root cause of eyelid inflammtion can be wiped out due to tea tree oil’s wonderful anti – inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This incredible oil can effectively work as a machine to eradicate ocular demodex as well as enhance subjective ocular symptoms.
How to use:
Mix some drops of tea tree oil into some carrier oils such as olive oil or coconut oil.
Dip a cotton ball in this mixture and gently rub it on your closed eyelids.
Leave it be for 5 – 10 mins and repeat the whole process for 2 – 3 times a day till you notice the improvement

4. Aloe Vera

To treat eyelid inflammation, aloe vera boast moiturizing property that can drastically reduce the burning sensation as well as the irritated feelings in your eyelids. Furthermore, moiturized eyelid can prevent the gathering of crust and flakes, thus eyelid inflammation can be stopped as well.
How to use:
Extract the fresh gel from a raw aloe vera leaf.
Gently apply this gel on your eyelid and leave it for 5 – 10 minutes.
After that, cleanse it thoroughly with warm water.
Repeat the process for 2 – 3 times a day.

5. Coconut Oil

Similar to tea tree oil, using coconut oil to treat blepharitis can bring us the same results as well. Thanks to its anti – inflammatory and antibacterial compounds, the itching sensation and burning feeling now can be solved.
How to use:
Dip a cotton swab into a cup of coconut oil
And gently rub it on your closed eyelid and leave it for 15 – 20 minutes
Rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
Repeat the whole process for several times a day to get the best results.

6. Indian Lilac

You can manipulate dandruff and crust in your eyelid by using Idian Lilac which is also known as neem. This herb can be very effective in getting rid of crust and dandruff due to its antifungal and anti – inflammatory properties. Plus, it can provide relief and soothe the pain caused by blepharitis as well.
How to use:
Put some neem leaves into boiling water and wait until it cools down.
Use this to get rid of dandruff from your hair 2 – 3 times a week.

TEA TREE OIL – “For acne, herpes, barley, runny nose, bad breath, thrush, dandruff. How to apply “

I always buy only 100% tea tree oil, sometimes lower content. I use it everywhere and everywhere and recommend it to all my friends. A natural remedy that helps literally from all sores.
1) When pimple just starts to creep out, a red swelling appears, if you immediately drip it with oil, then the pimple will not come out at all!
If you still had to squeeze out a pimple, then you can avoid bad consequences in the form of a red spot, etc., if you immediately smear it with oil.
2) As soon as it starts to come out herpes a burning sensation appears on the lip, again lubricate this place with tea tree oil, then the herpes will change his mind)
3) From barley on the eye also helps! I also experienced this on myself, as soon as I noticed a swelling on the eyelid, I immediately dropped oil on a cotton pad and rubbed the swollen area with it, the next day I found absolutely nothing!
4) From runny nose dilute drops of 5-6 100% oil in a glass of warm water and this solution should be used to rinse the nose.
5) From odor from the mouth drip a couple of drops of oil together with toothpaste on a toothbrush and brush your teeth as usual, or dissolve 10 drops in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with this solution! And you don’t need to buy any rinse aid!
6) From thrush I drip tea tree oil (10-15 drops) into a bucket of water and wash as usual. But it should be noted that of course it is not enough to treat such a disease from the outside, it is also necessary from the inside – well, there are pills for this.But for prevention, this oil is excellent!
7) Well, from dandruff when washing my head, I pour shampoo into my palm and drip a couple of drops of oil there, so my head, freshness is ensured)
Well, so far, almost all the methods that I myself have experienced)

90,000 Causes and symptoms of barley in the eye in adults and children

Barley on the eye is an inflammation of one of the many sebaceous glands of the eyelid, which occurs due to non-observance of hygiene rules or a decrease in local immunity.According to statistics, every third person at least once in his life suffered from this disease, the causative agent of which is Staphylococcus aureus. When painful barley occurs inside the eyelid, it is difficult to resist the urge to squeeze out the contents of the pimple. However, getting rid of it yourself is categorically undesirable, because this can cause serious complications. During the period of illness, it is not recommended to touch the site of inflammation, you should immediately consult a doctor who will help you quickly and safely cope with the problem.

Causes of the appearance of barley on the eye

One of the main reasons for the appearance of barley on the eye in an adult is a bacterial infection – Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus aureus. Normally, this bacterium lives on the skin and does not cause any harm to the body, but under the influence of a number of unfavorable factors, a suitable environment for its reproduction is created.

At the same time, there are accumulations of sebaceous and meibomian glands inside the eyelid. The latter produce the oily part of the tear, the purpose of which is to ensure the stability of the tear film and smooth gliding of the eyelids over the surface of the eye.Disruption of these glands can lead to their inflammation and the formation of a small purulent pimple.

A number of the most common factors provoking barley in the eyelid can also be identified:

• weakening of the immune system;
• diabetes mellitus;
• worms;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• colds;
• hypothermia;
• disregard for hygiene rules;
• use of other people’s cosmetics;
• stress.

Another possible causative agent of the inflammatory process is the parasite – demodex. This mite lives on the skin of 80% of the world’s population. For a healthy person, it is not dangerous, however, if there is a weakened immune system, endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, skin diseases, demodex can cause various inflammations, including the formation of barley.

Is it contagious to others?

This disease is not transmitted by airborne droplets. However, contact with a person who has an abscess, especially an external one, can acquire an infection.Infection occurs due to the fact that a fluid is formed in the focus of inflammation, which is then released through the pores to the surface of the skin, and with it the infection comes out. It, in turn, can spread to a healthy person through clothing, household items, cosmetics, handshake, etc.

Transmission of a dangerous pathogen can easily occur if an abscess has burst in the patient. Its contents usually go outside throughout the whole day, so it is very important all this time to carefully monitor the hygiene of not only your own hands, but also to treat the site of inflammation with antiseptic agents in order to protect others and prevent the spread of infection.

Symptoms and early signs

Sometimes the disease is mild, without causing any discomfort, and manifests itself only by the formation of a small tubercle on the lower or upper eyelid. But most often, the symptoms of barley on the eye bring many inconveniences in the form of painful sensations, itching, swelling, headache and redness of the eyes.

It is best to start treatment even before a pimple appears on the skin. At the beginning, a person notes a slight swelling of the eyelid and redness.After a few hours, itching appears, which only intensifies over time. After about a day, you can feel the resulting lump under the skin, resembling a boil or pimple.

Classification

Depending on the number of abscesses, there are multiple and single. Unlike solitary ones, multiple lesions cause more intense symptoms and are accompanied by general malaise. This situation requires immediate consultation with an ophthalmologist.

If the disease manifests itself for the first time, they speak of an acute course of the disease, but in the case when inflammation in the eyes appears with some frequency, barley is called recurrent.

By localization, the abscess can be internal and external.

Internal

A small pimple appears on the conjunctival side, caused by inflammation of the meibomian glands. In the first 2-3 days, a tubercle forms on the inner surface of the eyelid, accompanied by pain and itching. After 3-4 days, it is opened, and a small scar is formed at this place.

Outdoor

Swelling occurs at the ciliary edge, and after a few days it fills with pus.Usually, the barley is opened after 3-4 days, the contents come out, the wound ceases to be painful and heals soon.

Stages of the disease

There are several stages in the development of the disease:

1. Infiltration. A small tubercle appears on the inner or outer surface of the eyelid, which can be easily confused with a speck in the eye. In this area, itching, redness, slight swelling occurs, which intensify over time.
2. Suppuration.Over time, the swelling increases, fills with pus, and causes severe discomfort when touched or blinked.
3. Breakthrough of the abscess. In the normal course of the disease, after 3-4 days, the abscess matures and breaks out on its own, the contents come out to the surface of the skin. if this does not happen, the purulent capsule will have to be opened surgically in the doctor’s office.
4. Healing. The affected area ceases to be painful, the wound heals, a crust forms, which disappears in the next few days, revealing healthy tissues.

Diagnostics and treatment

For a quick and effective treatment of the disease, you should seek medical help as soon as possible. The optometrist of the First Clinic Orekhovo, before choosing the appropriate therapy, will prescribe a test to determine the nature of inflammation and the sensitivity of pathogenic bacteria to antibiotics. Based on the results of laboratory studies, a treatment plan is drawn up, which includes not only the intake of antibacterial drugs, but also the external use of appropriate drops and gels.

Will it pass by itself?

In many cases, the abscess goes away on its own and does not require special treatment, but you should not neglect a visit to a specialist. The doctor will give the necessary recommendations and control so that the healing process takes place safely and quickly. However, it happens that over time, the barley remains intact and the opening of the abscess does not occur. Such inflammation on the eyelid can persist for more than one month and often it is possible to get rid of it only during the process of surgical intervention.

What not to do with barley

Never try to squeeze out the abscess. Purulent contents can spread through the blood throughout the eye, which leads to blood poisoning, eyelid abscess and other extremely dangerous consequences.

When an abscess appears, it is also not recommended:

• rub and comb your eyes;
• perform any kind of manipulation with dirty hands;
• apply cosmetics;
• use contact lenses;
• Warm up or cool the site of inflammation.

Complications

If you ignore the disease and do not start treatment on time, there is a high risk of developing the following complications:

• Conjunctivitis – spread of pus over the eyeball and inflammation of the mucous membrane.
• Orbital cellulitis is a purulent inflammation of the orbital tissue of the eyeball. When purulent contents are released, the infection can spread to the deeper layers of the skin and eye tissue.
• Chalazion – barley is reborn into a round formation on the outside of the eyelid.It is painless, but it causes discomfort, as it puts pressure on the eyeball and reduces the quality of vision.
• Vascular plexus thrombosis is a violation of blood circulation in the central vein or its branches due to vascular obstruction.
• Meningitis – inflammation of the brain due to the spread of infection.
• Sepsis – blood poisoning when purulent contents enter it.

Barley in a child

In children, due to the peculiarities of the immune system and their lifestyle, this purulent disease occurs quite often.Inadequate treatment or untimely medical care can provoke an abscess of the eyelids and other equally dangerous complications.

It is important to understand that in children under one year old, the orbital tissue of the eyeball is especially fragile, so ordinary barley can turn into an abscess even faster – within a few hours. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor the health of the child and, at the first suspicion of a disease, immediately consult a specialist.

Disease prevention

To prevent the development of barley, the following recommendations should be followed:

• regularly clean the surface of the eyelids;
• strengthen the immune system;
• to eat foods rich in vitamins and microelements;
• exclude alcohol and smoking;
• to reduce the number of stressful situations;
• to establish a sleep mode;
• Visit an ophthalmologist regularly for a prophylactic examination of the organs of vision.

The ophthalmologist of our medical clinic has extensive experience in the treatment of inflammatory eye diseases and will do everything necessary to effectively and quickly cope with pathology once and for all. You can make an appointment by calling +7 (499) 653-58-25 or by leaving a request on the website.

Aojiru green juice of young barley leaves YUWA Aojiru (50 pcs)

Japanese Aojiru is a green juice of various plants, rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and trace elements, a large amount of fiber.Raw materials for Aojiru are grown in ecologically clean areas in the south of the country. Young shoots of barley have a full range of vitamins, minerals, micro-macroelements necessary for a person, a complex of SOD – a group of antioxidant enzymes that block cancer cells in the body, as well as associated with longevity, essential amino acids. Unlike conventional chemical vitamin complexes, they are preserved in their natural form in Aojiru.
Renowned Japanese pharmacist and doctor Yoshihide Hagiwara has devoted decades to researching barley greens.None of the plants he studied could match the amount of vitamins and minerals in comparison with barley. The doctor has developed a unique method for drying the juice of young greens, which preserves all the beneficial properties of the plant and goes directly to the human body. Hagiwara patented this method, for which he received a prestigious award in the field of science and technology.

Effect of use:
– is a prophylaxis against cancer, cardiovascular diseases and premature aging.
– the presence of iron and chlorophyll has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the circulatory system, due to which oxygen is supplied to all organs.
– eliminates bad breath and body odor.
– has a positive effect on immunity, healing of wounds and ulcers.
– makes the skin more youthful, improves complexion, helps fight acne, heals nails and hair.
– due to the large amount of fiber – improves metabolism, relieves constipation, naturally normalizes weight.
– maintains the acid-base balance in the body.
– being a rich source of calcium, it strengthens bones and teeth.
– removes toxins and toxins from the body.
– increases mental capacity, physical and mental stamina.
– due to the large presence of chlorophyll, the composition of which is almost the same as hemoglobin, purifies and renews the blood.
– has a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

Recommended to use:
– for pregnant women, children and the elderly;
– for diabetics and those suffering from drops in blood pressure;
– to everyone who is not able to eat fresh vegetables every day;
– to persons with weakened immunity, physical weakness, mental stress;
– living in cold climates.

Ingredients: calcium 8.64 mg, iron 1.13 mg, zinc 0.07 mg, potassium 38.4 mg, magnesium 3.6 mg, vitamin B1 0.01 mg, vitamin B2 0.02 g, vitamin B6 0.01 mg, biotin 0.5 μg, folic acid 3.6 μg, vitamin C 0.07 mg, vitamin E 0.15 mg, vitamin K 43.2 μg, beta-carotene 120 μg, isoleucine 21.84 mg, leucine 43.2 mg, lysine 31.2 mg, methionine 6.24 mg, cystine 6.24 mg, phenylalanine 26.4 mg, tyrosine 11.76 mg, threonine 21.84 mg , tryptophan 8.16 mg, valine 28.8 mg, histidine 8.4 mg, arginine 26.4 mg, alanine 31.2 mg, aspartic acid 48 mg, glutamic acid 62.4 mg, glycine 26.4 mg, proline 26.4 mg, serine 20.16 mg
Energy value (for 3 g / 1 packet): Calories 6.41 kcal, proteins 0.48 g, fats 0.06 g, carbohydrates 1.59 g, sugars 0.37 g, dietary fiber 1.22 g, sodium chloride equivalent 0.024 g

Method of application: Stir 1 sachet (3 gr.) well in 80-100 ml. drink water or milk prepared drink. Use a shaker if necessary.
Store in a dry place at room temperature.
Shelf life: 3 years.

Volume: 50 bags of 3 grams.

Tea tree oil, its useful properties and contraindications

Even our ancestors knew about the benefits and properties of tea tree: it was used for many purposes, but only in the 21st century the use of tea oil reached its maximum, because it was taken for its extraction and processing world famous company NSP. This company differs significantly from competing development companies, at least in that it does not save on raw materials, but uses 100% tea tree oil imported from Australia.

Tea oil produced in accordance with GMP quality standards has an immunostimulating, bactericidal, antiseptic and antifungal agent on the body. And today we are starting a series of articles on the benefits and various uses of tea tree oil.

Benefits of tea tree oil

Perhaps the most amazing effect of tea tree oil is that using it you can take care of both yourself and your pets.For example, if your pet has fleas, then a few drops of this oil can be applied to its fur. And if the animal has ticks, then you need to drop oil on the parasite (tick in this case) and pull out the sucked reptile with tweezers. Oil blocks the flow of oxygen to the head of the tick, it suffocates and dies. And if, after removing ticks and / or fleas, the animal still has scratches, then oil will help out again: you just need to wipe the itch with a mixture of tea tree oil and olive oil and the discomfort will subside in a few minutes.

It is worth talking about the excellent properties of tea tree oil, which have a positive effect on the human body. This oil can be used for personal hygiene, for injuries, skin diseases, colds. Also, the oil is great for care, for: hair, skin of the face and hands, oral cavity and even for personal hygiene, which we will discuss in detail in the following articles.

Potential Tea Tree Oil Allergy

Before using tea tree oil, a small allergy test should be done.This can be done in 2 ways:

• Apply a drop of undiluted oil to the wrist and wait for the reaction: if there is no redness or burning sensation, then you can safely start using the oil;
• you need to drop oil on a napkin and inhale the smell several times, if there are no allergic symptoms, then there are no contraindications for use.

How to use tea tree oil

The first and perhaps most surprising fact is that tea tree oil can, and even should, be used for injuries.For example, in case of a bruise, a gauze swab dipped in olive oil mixed with tea tree oil – 10: 1 ratio – should be applied to the damaged area and secured with a plaster.

In case of a burn, immediately, immediately after contact of the irritant with the skin, apply something cold, literally for 2-3 minutes, and then drip 2-3 drops of oil on the burned skin and massage with light movements until the oil is completely absorbed. This procedure should be repeated 2a times a day. And if the burn is not thermal, but vegetable (i.e.That is, a burn with poisonous herbs), then a mixture of olive oil and tea tree oil will come to the rescue, in the same ratio of 10: 1. The repetition rate of the procedure is the same as for a thermal burn.

A blend of olive-tea tree oils copes well with stretch marks. Already in the familiar proportion, 10: 1, you need to rub into the sore spot, and for a stronger effect, you need to add a few drops to a warm bath. Only in this case, not a mixture of two oils is added, but only tea tree oil.And if you add a little more oil (about five drops), then not only the pain from the injury will disappear, but also the dryness and irritation of the skin will disappear, because tea tree oil has an amazing nourishing effect.

If you or your child got cut or got an abrasion, disinfect the injury site or simply wash it with warm water and soap, and then apply the same mixture of “olive + tea oil”, but in a ratio of 8: 1.

Children’s health and tea tree oil

This is where tea tree oil comes in handy.For example, when caring for a baby’s ears, you can wipe the auricle, again, with a mixture of two oils (olive and tea tree) and drip one drop into each ear. To remove the crusts on the baby’s head, you also need to use this mixture: just rub it into the crusts themselves and the skin around them with light movements, and after five minutes, rinse with warm water. And the crusts were gone.

When coughing, so as not to injure the child’s fragile immune system with tablets intended for adults and, of course, not adding to health, you can add one or two drops of oil to the inhaler and drip onto the pillow.These simple actions will make it easier for the child to breathe, eliminate a runny nose and cough. And by the way, tea tree oil can be easily washed from bedding and clothes.

But not only for health purposes, you can use oil for children. It is also useful for disinfecting a children’s room: all you need to do is add a few drops of oil to a spray bottle with warm water and spray it around the room. This operation can be performed not only in the children’s room, but throughout the house: the freshness and purity of the air is ensured for a long time.

Surprisingly, tea tree oil can be used even for washing (!) Children’s clothes. Just add 10 drops per 4 liters of water to the washing machine. If desired, you can add oil to the rinse aid, the proportions are maintained. For adult clothing, this is undesirable, even rather meaningless: adult clothing has a denser and more rigid structure and light esters of oil simply do not penetrate the fibers. But an aqueous solution of tea tree oil can be used to disinfect plumbing fixtures.

Use of tea tree oil against parasites and insects

Also, tea tree oil can be used against insects and parasites. How to deal with ticks has already been described above, no matter how offensive it may sound, but the procedure for removing a tick from a pet’s body is no different. But with head lice, the situation is slightly different. The oil should be added to the shampoo and the hair should be washed according to your usual schedule. It is recommended to rinse brushes and combs every day with a weak oil solution.

In case of an insect bite, you just need to wipe the affected area of ​​the skin with oil, if there are a lot of kusov, then a mixture of two oils – olive and tea tree will help.

Let’s talk about hair and face care using tea tree oil, as well as the use of oil in personal hygiene.

In windy weather, the lips suffer greatly: cracks appear on them or, even worse, herpes. The following procedure will help to get rid of the lesions: put 3 drops of tea tree oil in a glass of warm water and, with a cotton swab dipped in this solution, wipe the inflamed areas.

And if barley appears on the eyes from the wind or from other irritants, then you should add oil to hot water and hold your face over the outgoing steam. The eyes must be closed.

For treatment, especially for acne, wipe problem areas with undiluted tea tree oil, or for best results, add the oil to your daily skin care product.

There is also a very useful face mask based on cocoa butter, tea tree oil and the usual face cream.Just add a few drops of both oils to your face cream and apply as you like. In general, tea tree oil can always be added to foot lotion, hand cream, and body milk – it is clear that only the location of exposure will change, the effect will be the same: soft and moisturized skin.

This is not the end of the moisturizing properties of tea tree oil: it fights corns very well. It is enough to apply two drops of oil on rough skin and rub until completely absorbed.You need to repeat these actions until the corns completely disappear and, preferably, before bedtime.

And who does not like massage, but such that after it all pain in the muscles disappears, and the skin becomes soft and smooth? It’s easy to do: just add 4-5 drops of tea tree oil to your regular massage oil and enjoy.

And finally, let’s touch on a topic unloved by many ladies: shaving the legs and bikini area. How women did not fight here, relief comes only from chemicals that dry out the skin and really do nothing.But here tea tree oil also comes to the rescue: mix it with olive oil and wipe the skin after shaving, thus preventing irritation and redness.

But not only women benefit from tea tree oil, men will be surprised by its antiseptic properties. Just when shaving, you need to use a shaving gel or cream with oil added to it.

Hair care with tea tree oil

With dandruff, no one cancels shampooing with regenerating shampoos, but it must be done in a special way.For one shampooing procedure, you need to take 2-3 drops of oil, apply the mixture to your hair and let it stand for about five minutes. The procedure should be repeated until the dandruff disappears completely, and it will disappear very quickly. You should also do with dry or oily hair, but you need to keep the shampoo a little longer – about ten minutes.

Many people actively use tea tree oil for acute respiratory viral infections and colds, be it a common cough or, for example, bronchitis. With the same bronchitis, five drops of tea tree oil should be rubbed into the chest area with light movements, and then covered with a blanket, i.e.That is, you need to create warmth.

How to use and choose tea tree oil

Rinse with warm water and a few drops of tea tree oil will help relieve sore throat.

And if your ear suddenly hurts, then just drip it with a heated mixture of olive and tea tree oil – a ratio of 2: 1.

Tea tree oil has been shown to be highly effective against rhinitis. You just need to find painful points on the bridge of the nose and on the wings of the nose, and rub oil into them (with light movements!).

But tea tree oil does not only fight against colds. As a good antiseptic and with excellent analgesic properties, the oil is good for oral diseases.

For a toothache, the following recipe: just drip a few drops of oil on a cotton swab, apply the swab to the aching tooth and wait until the pain passes, but this must be done very carefully so that the oil does not get on the mucous membrane.

If the gums are bleeding, a regular rinse with hot water with 2-3 drops of oil will help.

And for the prevention of caries, you should add a drop of oil to a portion of toothpaste every morning.

Well, as a “dessert”, consider tea tree oil as a remedy that fights skin diseases. Such as: shingles, paronychia, trophic ulcers, bedsores, dermatitis and warts.

This method is very effective against warts: you need to steam the wart, and then drop two or three drops of oil on it and wait until it is completely absorbed. It is recommended to repeat the procedure until the wart falls off.

Undiluted tea tree oil also works well with trophic ulcers: just wipe the ulcer 2-3 times a day.

And pure oil is used against parochinia. It also needs to be rubbed into the inflamed areas of the skin, capturing the space around.

A 1:10 blend of tea tree oil and any pain reliever combats dermatitis. As in previous cases, the mixture must be gently rubbed into the damaged skin.

To treat pressure ulcers, use the same mixture (pain reliever + oil), but in a different proportion – 5: 1.And the method of treatment is slightly different: it is strictly forbidden to rub in the oil – you should do applications on the affected areas.

For the treatment of shingles, you will need the above-described mixture of two oils (olive and tea tree). Simply apply the warmed mixture to the lichen 2-3 times a day.

As you can see, the spectrum of action of tea tree oil is quite extensive, but there are also precautions here:

• be careful not to get the oil in the eyes;
• Oil should be stored in a cool, dark place out of reach of children and animals;
• Do not pour oil into plastic containers;
• Avoid contact with undiluted oil on mucous membranes.