Conjunctivitis

The conjuctiva is the mucous membrane that lines eyelids and is reflected onto the eyeball. Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of this mucous membrane.

Causes

Conjunctivitis is highly contagious when it is caused by a viral infection. Factors that can contribute to the disease include: bacterial infection, injury to the eye, allergies, and substances that are irritating to the eye such as fumes, smoke, contact lens solutions, chlorine from swimming pools, chemicals, make-up, or any other foreign substance that enters the eye.

Symptoms

Eyes may appear swollen and bloodshot; they are often itchy and irritated. Because the infected membrane is often filled with pus in conjuncivitis, the eyelids often stick together after being closed for long periods. If pain and blurred vision occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment

Nutrients

Vitamin A emulsion, 100,000 IU daily for a month, then 25,000 IU daily from capsule form, helps promote immunity to viral infection. Vitamin C, 2,000-6,000 mg. per day in divided doses, protects the eye from further inflammation and enhances healing. Zinc, 50 mg. per day, is important in all eye disorders and enhances immune response.

Herbs

Acacia
Agrimony
Angelica
Aloe
Alum root
Barberry
Bayberry
Bilberry
Borage
Castor bean
Celandine, greater
Chamomile
Cicely, sweet
Clover, red
Comfrey
Cornflower
Cucumber
Elderberry
Elm, slippery
Eryngo
Eyebright, red
Fennel
Flaxseed
Frostweed
Goldenseal
Groundsel
Gum plant
Heal-all
Herb Robert
Honeysuckle
Horsetail
Houseleek
Indian-pipe
Jasmine flowers
Lady's mantle
Linseed
Lovage
Maple
Marigold, tea
Meadowsweet
Mimosa, prairie
Motherwort
Myrrh
Osage-orange, root
Pokeroot
Pomegranate
Pot marigold
Raspberry, red, leaves
Rose flowers
Rue
Sagebrush
Salsify
Sandalwood
Sanicle
Sassafras
Savory
Speedwell
Vervain
Watercress
Wild cherry bark
Willow

Suggestions

Pink eye associated with hay fever can be treated with drops containing steroids, which must be obtained from the doctor, and used under his supervision.

A bacterial infection is typically treated with antibiotics if the eye does not heal within 4 days of supplemental use.

If the eyelids are swollen, try a peeled and grated fresh potato, wrap it with gauze, and place it over the eyes. It acts as an astringent and has a healing effect.

To make a good eye wash, dissolve 1/2 tsp. aloes and 1 tsp. boric acid in 1 cup of water.

Another eye wash: steep 1 tsp. goldenseal, 1/2 tsp. myrrh and 2 heaping tsp. boric acid in 1 pint boiling water. Add 1 tsp. of the infusion to 1/2 cup water and use.