Eye infections may result from different types of bacteria, viruses or fungi. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," is one of the most common types of eye infection, occurring on the outside of the eye. Other types of eye infections, such as uveitis, may occur inside the eye. If you do not wish to use medications, discuss alternative remedies, such as chrysanthemum tea, with your eye doctor to determine the possible benefits and risks.
Symptoms
Eye infections that involve the surface of your eyes, such as conjunctivitis, often cause redness, irritation, itching and swelling of your eyelids. You may also have a thick, mucous-like discharge or excessive watering of your eyes. Inner eye infections such as uveitis may cause redness, pain and light sensitivity. Some people also experience vision changes with these types of infections.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum cannot treat the bacterial, viral or fungal source of an eye infection. However, the components of chrysanthemum may have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and other symptoms. If you and your doctor determine that chrysanthemum tea may help ease your symptoms, your doctor will inform you of the appropriate amount of chrysanthemum to use each day, as well as the best method to brew chrysanthemum tea.
Treatment
Using chrysanthemum tea will not treat the infection. If your doctor recommends the tea, she may prescribe an eye drop, such as an antibiotic, to treat the condition. Prescription medications cannot treat certain types of infection, such as a viral infection, so your doctor may recommend the tea or other remedy to help reduce the intensity of your symptoms. Severe infections may require eye drops to reduce the intensity of the discomfort or inflammation. To prevent possible complications, your doctor will inform you of the possible interactions between the chrysanthemum tea and the medications.
Considerations
If you have symptoms of an eye infection, contact your eye doctor for an examination. Do not begin herbal treatments, such as chrysanthemum tea, without first consulting with your doctor. She will help you determine if your condition requires a prescription medication or other remedy to help resolve the symptoms and source of the infection.
