Natural treatments for conjunctivitis
Natural treatments for conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, focus on alleviating the symptoms of this inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the eyeball. Common symptoms include redness, discomfort, and discharge from the eye. While conventional medical treatments vary based on the underlying cause—such as viral or bacterial infections—there are several proposed natural remedies. Herbal treatments like chamomile, calendula, and eyebright have been traditionally used, though their efficacy is debated and safety concerns arise, particularly regarding potential allergic reactions.
Other suggested remedies include bee propolis, barberry, Oregon grape, and goldenseal, which may possess antimicrobial properties. Nutritional support through vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc is also mentioned, as these may help in managing inflammation and supporting overall eye health. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene, such as changing pillowcases, washing hands frequently, and avoiding contact lenses during an episode are vital for recovery and preventing reinfection. While exploring these natural remedies, it's crucial to remain mindful of the importance of consulting healthcare providers for persistent or worsening symptoms, as conjunctivitis can sometimes indicate more serious health issues.
Natural treatments for conjunctivitis
DEFINITION: Treatment of inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the eyeball.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED NATURAL TREATMENTS: None
OTHER PROPOSED NATURAL TREATMENTS: Barberry, bee propolis, calendula, chamomile, eyebright, goldenseal, Oregon grape, vitamin A, warm compresses, probiotics, diet and lifestyle changes, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc
Introduction
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the eyeball. Symptoms in the affected eye include a bloodshot appearance, crusty discharge, and discomfort that may feel like something is in the eye. Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is frequently caused by a viral infection, sometimes of the same viruses that cause colds. In such cases, conjunctivitis could be called “a cold in the eye” and is really no more serious than any other cold. Other causes of conjunctivitis include bacterial infections, allergies, environmental irritants such as smoke or pollution, exposure to chemicals such as chlorine or contact lens solution, and injuries to the eye.
Medical treatment varies depending on the cause of the inflammation. Common viral conjunctivitis does not require treatment; if the conjunctivitis is caused by the herpes virus, urgent treatment is necessary. For bacterial eye infections, antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics are usually prescribed; for allergic conjunctivitis, prescription eye drops, antihistamines, or both, may be used.
Proposed Natural Treatments
Herbal teas. Traditionally, herbal teas have been applied to the eyes directly or in a compress or poultice form. This method, however, is not recommended because if absolute sterility is not ensured, further serious infection may occur. Furthermore, allergic reactions to herbal products are relatively common and may, themselves, cause eye irritation. Chamomile tea has also traditionally been used to soothe conjunctivitis symptoms.
Vitamin A. There is some evidence that persons with chronic conjunctivitis may have a vitamin A deficiency. However, this does not prove that taking vitamin A supplements would help treat or prevent conjunctivitis.
Bee propolis. Some studies suggest that bee propolis may help treat conjunctivitis. However, because it was applied topically to the eye in these trials, this treatment is not recommended due to concerns about sterility.
Other herbs and supplements. As the name indicates, eyebright is a traditional herbal treatment for eye conditions; however, this recommendation may be based more on the bloodshot appearance of its petals than on any actual medicinal effect. The herbs barberry, Oregon grape, and goldenseal contain berberine, which has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. A special berberine preparation is used as a pharmaceutical treatment for conjunctivitis in Germany, but it is not used widely elsewhere. The herb calendula is thought to possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and it has been used traditionally as an eye compress. Other herbs and supplements suggested for treating conjunctivitis include omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and support tear production, and zinc, which may help fight infections.
Other Treatments. To ensure conjunctivitis heals in a timely manner, it is important to stop the use of contact lenses and eye makeup. In many cases, makeup should be discarded to avoid reinfection. Additionally, pillowcases and towels should be changed daily and hands washed often. It is important to note that pink eye can be an early symptom of the measles, so if the condition persists or worsens, medical care is recommended. Staying hydrated, getting plenty of sleep, eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and probiotics, applying warm compresses, and washing hands frequently are also ways to prevent conjunctivitis.
Bibliography
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Koby, M. "Conjunctivitis." Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2019, edited by Fred F. Ferri. Mosby/Elsevier, 2018.
Olitzky, S. E., et al. "Disorders of the Conjunctiva." Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, edited by Richard E. Behrman, et al, 21st ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
"Pink eye (Conjunctivitis)—Diagnosis and Treatment." Mayo Clinic, 29 Mar. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pink-eye/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376360. Accessed 17 Sept. 2024.