Conjunctivitis, an eye infection often called pink eye, may cause a number of symptoms. Eye redness is a common symptom, but you may also experience itching, stinging, drainage and eyelid inflammation. In some cases, the infection will not require treatment, resolving in a short time, but severe cases may require treatment. If you plan to use an alternative treatment, such as oil of oregano, talk to your doctor to determine if this is an appropriate remedy for your condition.
Types
Eye infections such as conjunctivitis may occur in response to a bacterial infection, fungal infection or a virus. Viral conjunctivitis commonly occurs with the common cold, and contact with people who have a cold, or symptoms of a cold, could increase your risk for pink eye. Allergic conjunctivitis may also appear in response to pollen, pet dander or other allergens.
Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano comes from the oregano plant, and the species Origanum vulgare may offer the best medicinal qualities. This variety of the oregano plant is found in Turkey, Greece and Crete, as well as in the Himalayas.
Oregano oil could have some benefits in helping infections caused by bacteria or fungi, and this, in theory, could help conjunctivitis that stems from these sources. This supplement also may have anti-inflammatory properties, and this could offer some relief from eyelid swelling and surface irritation of your eyes.
Dosage
During your discussion of oil of oregano with your doctor, she will evaluate the severity of your conjunctivitis and base her treatment recommendations on the examination. If your doctor determines oil of oregano could prove beneficial, he will tell you the best way to use the supplement, as well as how much to use each day. Direct application to your eye may intensify your symptoms, so your doctor may recommend that you put a few drops of the oil under your tongue each day.
Considerations
If you place oil of oregano directly on your eyelid or the surface of your eye, you could experience a rash and irritation to the site. You should use water to flush your eyes if you have contact between your eye and this liquid supplement. If you take oregano oil by mouth, side effects could include rash, or swelling of the face, tongue or throat. You should not take this supplement without first consulting your doctor since this may not offer the best treatment for your condition.
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