If only you could wear shades all the time while in the office, unwinding at a bar or driving at night, then having a black eye would be no issue. However, that’s not the case. Aside from that nasty discoloration in the affected area, a black eye is also something that can cause pain and even blurring of vision.
Experts say that a black eye will heal on its own in about a couple of weeks. This does not mean, however, that you should put up with the problem for 14 long days. You may try some home remedies that are known to help speed up the healing of that black eye you have. There are many of them, so there’s one or two that will surely deliver.
So whether you are fresh from a fist fight or an accidental fall, continue reading. Below you will find some tips and tricks on making that unflattering black eye go away in no time.
Ice Pack
As soon as a black eye surfaces, immediately have it iced. This will help minimize further darkening as the cold helps constrict blood vessels. Also, it helps lessen pain. The proper way to do this is by wrapping some ice cubes or crushed eyes with a small towel, and gently placing it over the eye.
Frozen Vegetables
This popular home remedy for black eye is effective because it cools the area. In other words, it’s just like placing an ice pack over the black eye. A small bag of peas, corn kernels or cubed carrots fresh from the freezer is the best.
Potato
Here’s another trick on applying cold to a black eye. Place a slice of potato in the freezer for a few minutes, and then place over the black eye. It’s not just the cold that helps ease a black eye, but also certain enzymes in the potato.
Warm Compress
A couple of days after getting a black eye, it’s a good idea to switch to application of heat. This will help speed up the elimination of blood that has collected in the affected area. The right way to do this is by soaking a small towel in warm water, wringing out the excess, and placing it neatly over the black eye. A few days after incurring the injury, the use of an ice pack is no longer helpful as the blood vessels are very much likely no longer leaking.
Oatmeal
So many people swear by the efficacy of oatmeal in healing a black eye. All you have to do is mix equal amounts of hot water and oatmeal. Let the mixture stand for a few minutes to let the oatmeal thicken. Once already thick and the temperature is very much tolerable, place on the black eye. Wash off with water after several minutes.
Witch Hazel
Traditional healers use witch hazel in dealing with the likes of sores and inflammations. That is why you can accelerate the healing process of a black eye by soaking a cotton pad in witch hazel and leaving it there until already dry.
Papaya
If it is papaya season and you have a black eye, you’re in luck! That’s because the brightly-colored tropical fruit is rich in vitamin C that heals damaged blood vessels, as well as papain which is a natural compound that helps ease swelling. Simply mash a small piece of ripe papaya and place on the black eye. For faster recovery from the eye-catching problem, eat lots of papaya, too, for superb healing from within.
Cayenne Pepper
Last but not least, you may count on cayenne pepper if you want that black eye gone in a snap. The said spice contains what’s known as capsaicin, which is something that helps relieve pain and inflammation. Mix equal amounts of petroleum jelly and cayenne pepper, and gently massage on the affected area.
