Can perilla leaves be used to treat a stye?

Jun 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Shuai

Introduction

A hordeolum is an acute suppurative inflammation of the eyelid hair follicles or glands, commonly caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus. It requires treatment through local heat application, topical antibiotic ointments such as ofloxacin eye ointment, and other methods. Perilla leaves contain volatile oils, vitamins, and other components, but currently, there is no scientific evidence confirming that they can directly kill pathogenic bacteria or reduce the inflammatory response of a hordeolum.

Perilla leaves generally have no clear therapeutic effect on hordeolum. If any abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed explanation is as follows:

A hordeolum is an acute suppurative inflammation of the eyelid hair follicles or glands, commonly caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus. It should be treated with local hot compresses, topical antibiotic ointments, such as ofloxacin eye ointment. Perilla leaves contain volatile oils, vitamins, and other components; however, there is currently no scientific evidence confirming that they can directly kill pathogenic bacteria or reduce the inflammatory response of a hordeolum, and therefore cannot fundamentally resolve the infection.

Applying perilla leaves externally may have a soothing effect on the eyes, but this is not an effective treatment for hordeolum. Blindly applying perilla leaves to the eyes may lead to the spread of bacterial infection due to improper handling, or aggravate eyelid redness and pain due to drug irritation. If the hordeolum has already formed a pus point, external application of perilla leaves may delay pus drainage, worsen the condition, and even lead to complications such as orbital cellulitis.

If you develop a hordeolum, seek medical attention promptly and follow standard treatment procedures under a doctor's guidance, such as applying local hot compresses to promote absorption of the inflammation and using antibiotics to control the infection. Never attempt to treat the eyes yourself with perilla leaves or other substances, as this may worsen your condition or impair your vision.

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Why is one eyelid double-lidded and the other single-lidded?

Under normal circumstances, having one double eyelid and one single eyelid may be caused by genetic factors, aging, improper sleeping posture, poor eye usage habits, or conditions such as hordeolum (stye). If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. After surgery, it is important to keep the eyes clean, avoid contact with water, apply cold and warm compresses as directed by the physician, ensure adequate rest, avoid excessive eye strain, and refrain from strenuous activities.

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What causes sudden swelling and slight pain in the double eyelid?

In general, sudden swelling of the double eyelid accompanied by pain may be related to causes such as eyelid edema, ocular trauma, hordeolum (stye), conjunctivitis, or meibomian gland dysfunction. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, properly managing eye usage time, and avoiding prolonged use of electronic devices are advised.