Conjunctivitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the Conjunctiva – the thin layer of tissue that covers the inner eye and sclera. This condition develops due to allergies, bacterial infections, and viral infections. Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious condition and is spread by coming into contact with the eye secretions of an infected person The common name for conjunctivitis is “pink eye”.

The symptoms include:
-Itchiness of eyes
-Redness of eyes
-Increased tearing
-Discharge
-Crusting around eyes

Conjunctivitis is a very common condition which is generally treated with antibiotics. However, Ayurvedic treatment has proven to be just as effective.

Treatment:

Honey

(Mucolytic & Anti-Microbial)

Raw Organic Honey can be used as eye drops. Honey is a strong anti-microbial/anti-bacterial and assists in fighting infections. It is used in a wide variety of eye diseases and is supported by modern research. In one study, a honey-based formula called “Opthacare” by Himalaya was able to significantly improve both acute and chronic conjunctivitis (see study).

– Using a dropper, put 1-2 drops of honey in each eye. If you feel are really sensitive or in a lot of pain, mix a little honey in a quarter glass of warm water and use 4-5 drops of this honey-water mix. Immediately close your eyes and try to move your eyes in a circular motion to allow the honey to spread within the eye socket. Beware that this will burn for about a minute or two. Along with this burn, a lot of tears will form. This is a good thing.

Turmeric

(Anti-histamine & Anti-Bacterial)

If due to allergies, Turmeric can help immensely. Turmeric has been used to treat allergies by Ayurvedic doctors for centuries. Not only is it a powerful anti-histamine, but also an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herb too. Turmeric has successfully treated conjunctivitis in a clinical trial when used as eye drops (see study). However, if using honey for eye drops, I recommend using Turmeric internally. It can be taken by adding half a teaspoon of Turmeric powder to a glass of steaming-hot A2 milk or almond milk. Add a little honey to make it palatable. This can be taken twice a day.

Tulsi (Holy Basil)

(Immune Booster & Anti-microbial)

Tulsi is a potent immune boosting herb that can be used to improve the way our bodies fight off infections. In addition to boosting the immune system, Tulsi has also demonstrated potent anti-microbial effects in experimental research (see study). By consuming Tulsi, you can significantly increase T-Helper cells, Natural Killer cells, Interferon-Gamma, and Interleukin-4 – all of which significantly improve the way our immune system attacks and destroys pathogens (see study). I recommend all my patients/clients who are fighting infections to include Tulsi in their protocol.

(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)

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by Dr. Nishal R.
Copyright 2016