How to Make Artificial Tears at Home
Artificial tears are a common over-the-counter remedy for dry eyes, providing temporary relief from discomfort and irritation. While purchasing artificial tears at a store is convenient, making them at home can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to make artificial tears at home, using simple and easily accessible ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
To make artificial tears at home, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Saline solution (either pre-made or homemade)
2. Boric acid
3. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
4. Sodium chloride (table salt)
5. Distilled water
Instructions
1. Prepare Saline Solution: Begin by preparing a saline solution. If you have pre-made saline solution, you can skip this step. Otherwise, you can make homemade saline solution by mixing one teaspoon of table salt with one quart of distilled water. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves completely.
2. Dissolve Boric Acid: In a separate container, dissolve half a teaspoon of boric acid in a small amount of distilled water. Stir until the boric acid is fully dissolved.
3. Add Sodium Bicarbonate: Add half a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate to the saline solution. Stir the mixture until the baking soda dissolves completely.
4. Mix Solutions: Gradually add the boric acid solution to the saline solution while stirring continuously. Ensure that both solutions are well-mixed.
5. Add Sodium Chloride: Add half a teaspoon of sodium chloride to the mixture. Stir until the salt dissolves completely.
6. Final Mix: Once all the ingredients are dissolved, your homemade artificial tears are ready. You can now use this solution to relieve dry eye symptoms.
Storage and Usage
To store your homemade artificial tears, transfer the solution to an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place. Ensure that the container is clean and sterile to prevent any contamination. The solution can be used as needed to provide temporary relief from dry eyes.
In conclusion, making artificial tears at home is a simple and affordable process. By using common household ingredients, you can create a safe and effective solution to relieve dry eye symptoms. Remember to consult a healthcare professional if your dry eye symptoms persist or worsen.
