A barley in the eye is a common eye condition that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial infections, allergies, or small fibers or debris getting into the eye.

The condition can be quite uncomfortable and can cause redness, itching, and pain. Luckily, there are many home remedies that you can use to treat a barley in the eye. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective ways to get rid of a barley in the eye naturally.

Warm Compress:

A warm compress can help soothe the eye and reduce inflammation. To make a warm compress, you can soak a clean towel in warm water and hold it over the affected eye for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Alternatively, you can use a warm tea bag as a compress. The tannic acid in tea helps reduce inflammation and promote healing. Soak a tea bag in warm water and hold it over your eyelid for a few minutes. Repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Cold Compress:

If the warm compress does not work to relieve your discomfort, you can also try using a cold compress. A cold compress can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Place a few ice cubes in a clean towel, and hold it over your eyelid for 5-10 minutes.

Repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone. Be sure to never apply ice directly to the eye, as this can cause damage to the cornea.

Cucumber:

Cucumbers are known for their cooling and soothing properties. They can help reduce inflammation and soothe the eye. To use a cucumber as a remedy for a barley in the eye, cut a few thin slices of cucumber and place them over your eyelid.

Leave them on for 10-15 minutes and repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Turmeric:

Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating a barley in the eye. To use turmeric as a remedy, mix a teaspoon of turmeric with a cup of boiling water and let it cool.

Strain the mixture and use it to rinse your eye. Do this 2-3 times a day until the barley is gone. Be sure to use a clean cup and water for each rinse to avoid contaminating the eye.

Cornstarch:

Cornstarch can help relieve the itching and discomfort associated with a barley in the eye. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a cup of boiling water and allow it to cool. Use a clean cloth or cotton ball to apply the mixture to the affected eye.

Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Salt water:

Saltwater is another effective remedy for treating a barley in the eye. Mix a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water, and use it to rinse your eye several times a day.

The saltwater helps reduce inflammation and fights the bacteria causing the infection that led to the barley in the eye.

Apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antiseptic that can help fight the bacteria causing the infection that led to the barley in the eye.

Mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water and use a clean cloth or cotton ball to apply this mixture to the affected eye. Repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce redness and swelling in the eye. Use fresh aloe vera gel or aloe vera juice on a cotton ball and apply it to the affected eye.

Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone.

Tea Tree Oil:

Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help get rid of a barley in the eye. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of olive oil and apply it to the affected eye using a cotton ball.

Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and repeat this process several times a day until the barley is gone. Be careful not to get any of the oil in your eye.

Clean your Eye:

Cleanliness is the most crucial factor when it comes to treating a barley in the eye. You should avoid rubbing your eye, as this can cause further irritation and possible injury to the cornea.

Instead, clean the affected eye with lukewarm water or a saline solution. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the affected eye to avoid spreading the bacteria.

Conclusion:

A barley in the eye can be an irritating and painful condition, but it can be easily treated with simple home remedies. From warm compresses to aloe vera, there are many natural remedies that you can use to get rid of a barley in the eye.

Be sure to practice good hygiene and keep your hands clean to prevent further infections. If the condition does not improve, seek medical attention from a doctor or an optometrist.