Bilberry is high in bioflavonoids that act to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is especially good for the eyes. Choose a product containing 25 percent anthocyanidins (also called PCOs) and take 80 milligrams twice daily. To ensure ocular health, continue taking bilberry for an additional one to two months after the condition has been resolved.

Echinacea and goldenseal stimulate the immune system, so they are important in clearing any infection. Echinacea fights viral infections; goldenseal fights bacteria and soothes mucous membranes. Take 500 milligrams of Echinacea and 250 milligrams of goldenseal every two hours, for a total of five doses, during the first day. After that, take one dose three times daily until your condition improves, for up to one week.

A warm eyebright compress will help to increase the blood flow to the eye and wash discharge away. Eyebright, a most appropriately named herb, helps relieve redness and swelling of the eye, and can help clear an eye infection. Ring 3 ounces of sterile saline solution to a boil, and pour it over 1 tablespoon of dried cut herb (or one eyebright teabag). Allow it to steep for fifteen minutes, and then strain out the herb. When the liquid has cooled to a comfortable temperature, moisten a thin white cotton cloth with the warm eyebright tea and place it over your eyes. The compress should remain in place for fifteen minutes. Then moisten a fresh sterile cloth in the tea and gently wipe away any crusts or scales. Throw away (or sterilize) each cloth after one use. Never reuse the cloth after one use. Never reuse the cloth after contact with the eye. To do so is to invite reinfection. Wash your hands before and after the treatment, and either throw away the compress after using it or wash it separately in detergent and hot water with chlorine bleach added before using it again. Always be very cautious when using warm liquids around your eyes. The skin of the eyelid is thin and tender and can burn easily.