Conjunctivitis and keratitis can affect the surface of your eyes. Conjunctivitis is an eye infection that involves the tissue that covers the white part of your eye. Keratitis involves inflammation of the cornea, the clear tissue that covers the front of your eye, but this condition may not result from an infection. If you suspect an eye condition, talk with your doctor about necessary treatments. She can also help you determine if an herbal remedy may help relieve your symptoms.
Licorice Root
Extract from the root of the licorice plant may have properties that would benefit symptoms of conjunctivitis and keratitis. Licorice has anti-inflammatory components that could reduce swelling and associated discomfort on the surface of your eyes. Some people believe licorice may also help infections that result from a bacteria or a virus. If you think licorice root may offer some relief for conjunctivitis or keratitis, talk with your physician. He will help you determine if licorice root could prove beneficial. Your doctor can also help you determine if another treatment would work best for your eye.
Elderberry
Elderberry extract comes from the fruit of the elder tree. This extract has properties that help reduce inflammation. In theory, this could have some benefits to inflammation associated with conjunctivitis and keratitis. Elderberry may also help infections that result from viruses. If you and your doctor determine that elderberry could help relieve your symptoms, your doctor will explain how to use elderberry and when you should discontinue using the extract.
Ginger
Ginger is well-known for having many uses for flavor and seasoning in food. This supplement may also have medicinal qualities that could help treat inflammation. Some believe ginger could help relieve symptoms from the common cold virus, and if you have viral conjunctivitis or keratitis that results from a viral infection, your doctor may recommend a ginger supplement. Ginger comes in powered, dry or whole root form, and your doctor can help you determine the best form to use for your condition. Talk with your doctor before starting a garlic treatment. Ginger may not offer the best treatment for your eyes, especially for those on anti-coagulant medications, since ginger could interfere with blood-thinning medication.
Considerations
Herbal treatments may not offer the best form of treatment for your condition. Conjunctivitis may resolve without any necessary treatment, however, if not treated properly, conditions such as keratitis could result in corneal scarring, and this could result in significant vision loss. In severe cases of scarring, a person may require a corneal transplant to restore lost vision. Always discuss herbal remedies with your doctor before starting a treatment regimen.
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