Herb
Treatment Support
heat dispersing
Application
tea internally and as a wash externally
Conjunctivitis
Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Conjunctivitis:
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, can arise from several factors:
- Infectious Causes:
- Viral: Commonly caused by adenoviruses; often spreads through respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces.
- Bacterial: Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae.
- Non-Infectious Causes:
- Allergic: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or animal dander.
- Irritants: Exposure to smoke, chlorine, or foreign substances.
- Systemic Conditions: Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis) can lead to secondary conjunctivitis.
Signs to Seek Professional Help:
- Severe eye pain or discomfort.
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
- Blurred or reduced vision.
- Thick green or yellow discharge that causes eyelids to stick together.
- Persistent symptoms lasting more than a week.
- Affected infants, immunocompromised individuals, or those with pre-existing eye conditions.
- Recent history of injury, chemical exposure, or foreign body in the eye.
Treatment Plan for Conjunctivitis
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
Herbal remedies can be considered for mild cases, such as allergic or irritant conjunctivitis. Home treatments include:
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) tea compresses: Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis)-infused water: Known for antimicrobial and healing effects.
- Cooled green tea (Camellia sinensis) bags: Contain tannins to reduce swelling and irritation.
- Eyebright (Euphrasia spp.): Traditionally used to alleviate redness and irritation.
However, avoid using herbs if symptoms worsen or infection is suspected, and always use sterile techniques to prevent introducing bacteria.
Christopher Hobbs:
“The herbal program should consist of immune stimulants such as echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) and anti-inflammatories including goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and eyebright (Euphrasia stricta)Â for the mucous membranes. Before using as an eyewash, goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)Â infusions should be strained carefully through double layers of cheesecloth.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Dr. Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Conjunctivitis
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
unknown
Application
sterilized fresh juice
Herb
Treatment Support
immune stimulant
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory, astringent
Application
tea internally and as a wash externally
Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
wash externally
Herb
Treatment Support
cooling anti-inflammatory
Application
raw grated as a poultice
Herb
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tea, tincture
Related Conjunctivitis conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
