Herbal Remedies For Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of your conjunctiva -- a membrane that lines your eyelid and covers most of your sclera, or the whites of your eyes. Conjunctivitis is also known as "pink eye;" it is one of the most common eye diseases. Conjunctivitis is especially common in children. Herbal remedies may help treat your conjunctivitis, but you should always ask your doctor about negative side effects before taking herbs.

Conjunctivitis

If you have conjunctivitis, your eye may appear swollen and bloodshot. Your eyes may also be itchy and irritated. Many factors can cause this condition to develop, including bacterial infection, viral infection, eye injury, certain allergies and exposure to eye irritants, such as smoke, fumes, contact lens solutions, chlorine in swimming pools, cosmetic products and other debris that enters your eye. If your conjunctivitis is caused by a viral infection, it may be extremely contagious.

Useful Herbal Remedies

Certain dietary and herbal supplements may be effective in treating your conjunctivitis. Herbal supplements that may treat your conjunctivitis include calendula, chamomile, fennel, eyebright and goldenseal. Herbal remedies for conjunctivitis help reduce eye inflammation and irritation. Other dietary supplements that may be helpful include vitamin A, vitamin C with bioflavonoids and zinc, which also help reduce eye inflammation.

Most Commonly Used

Eyebright is an herbal remedy that contains numerous phytochemicals, including beta-carotene, tannins and ferulic acid. Eyebright also contains many nutrients, such as calcium, chromium and magnesium. Eyebright has traditionally been used to treat eye inflammation associate with conjunctivitis or blepharitis, or chronic inflammation of your eyelid. Eyebright helps prevent secretion of fluids and relieves discomfort from eyestrain or minor eye irritation. The entire eyebright plant, except the roots, are used in herbal preparations.

Considerations

The cause of your conjunctivitis usually determines how this condition is treated. If your conjunctivitis is caused by a bacterial infection, you may benefit most from antibiotics if your infection does not clear within four days of using compresses and dietary supplements. If your conjunctivitis is caused by hay fever, prescription drops may be required. All other causes of conjunctivitis may respond to herbal remedies, although you should always talk with your doctor about the possible side effects and risks of using herbal medicine.