Eye
infection (Conjunctivitis, pinkeye)
A reddening and swelling around the eyelid or entire eye and the
conjunctiva (a clear layer that covers the eyeball). Often there
will be a discharge of clear or thick fluid. A fever may also be
present. These infections are predominantly viral, although not
always (see differentials, below).
Treatment Goal(s):
· Eliminate infection, alleviate pain.
Primary Treatment:
· Use eye washes and compresses of Euphrasia officinalis
(Eyebright), Matricaria recutita (Chamomile), and Achillea millefolium
(Yarrow) as often as is practical. Apply compresses of the same
herbs during sleep.
· Internally administer tincture of Echinacea, 1 teaspoon
every hour until symptoms subside.
Supportive Treatment:
· Internally administer tincture of Eschcolzica californica
(California Poppy), 30-60 drops as needed for pain relief.
· Castor oil eyedrops.
· Colloidal silver eyedrops.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· If there is a fever, use diaphoretics such as Sambucus
nigra (Elder) flowers, in the evening in the form of a hot infusion.
Monitor the fever and treat it accordingly (See “Fevers”).
· Keep the eyes clean and free of discharge. Most cases should
resolve within 48-72 hours. If the infection recurs, or becomes
chronic, address weakened immunity through the use of probiotics,
detoxification, adaptogens.
· A bacterial infection of the eye is more rare but is also
a possibility. These cases are a bit more dangerous as damage to
the optic nerve is more likely. If symptoms don’t substantially
improve within 48-72 hours, consider an eyewash of Hydrastis (Goldenseal),
1 teaspoon of cut-and-sifted root infused into 8oz of hot water,
cooled to room temperature and strained through muslin (or an unbleached
coffee filter). Use this wash at least twice daily.
