Eye barley, also known as a sty, is a common eye infection that affects the oil glands located on the eyelids. It occurs when the oil glands become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, resulting in a red and painful lump on the eyelid.

Causes of Eye Barley

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of eye barley:.

Poor hygiene, particularly touching the eyes with dirty hands
Excessive oil production on the eyelids
Bacterial infection
Blocked oil glands
Use of contaminated cosmetic products
Chronic blepharitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids

Symptoms of Eye Barley

The symptoms of eye barley may include:.

Redness and swelling of the eyelid
Tenderness and pain in the affected area
Formation of a pus-filled bump on the eyelid
Crusting of the eyelid
Discomfort when blinking
Excessive tearing

9 Simple Ways to Treat Eye Barley at Home

1. Warm Compress

Apply a warm compress to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, several times a day. This will help to reduce the swelling and promote drainage of the pus-filled bump. Simply soak a clean washcloth in warm water and wring out the excess water.

Place the warm compress over the affected eyelid and hold it there until it cools down. Repeat this several times a day until the bump disappears.

2. Tea Bags

Steep a tea bag in boiling water for a few minutes and let it cool down. Then, place the tea bag over the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes.

The tannic acid in tea has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce the swelling and pain associated with eye barley.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help to soothe the skin and promote healing. Cut a fresh aloe vera leaf and squeeze out the gel. Apply the gel to the affected eyelid and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.

Rinse off with warm water. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help to reduce swelling and fight infection. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a teaspoon of water to form a thick paste.

Apply the paste to the affected eyelid and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Repeat this once daily.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic properties that can help to fight off infection and reduce inflammation. Dilute apple cider vinegar with equal parts water. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the affected eyelid.

Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and then rinse off with warm water. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.

6. Coriander Seeds

Coriander seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and swelling. Boil a teaspoon of coriander seeds in a cup of water for a few minutes. Let the solution cool down and then strain it.

Use a clean cotton ball to apply the solution to the affected eyelid. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.

7. Castor Oil

Castor oil has antibacterial properties that can help to fight off infection and reduce inflammation. Apply a small amount of castor oil to the affected eyelid and gently massage it in for a few minutes.

Leave it on overnight and rinse off with warm water in the morning. Repeat this daily until the bump disappears.

8. Potato

Potatoes have natural astringent properties that can help to reduce inflammation and swelling. Cut a potato into thin slices and place them over the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this 2-3 times a day until the bump disappears.

9. Garlic

Garlic has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to fight off infection and reduce swelling. Crush a garlic clove and mix it with a few drops of water to form a thick paste.

Apply the paste to the affected eyelid and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.

When using these home remedies, be sure to maintain good hygiene and avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands. If the bump does not go away within a week or if it becomes more painful or swollen, seek medical attention.