Homeopathic Remedies for Conjunctivitis
Also indexed as: Eye (Conjunctivitis), Pink Eye
Conjunctivitis, or “pinkeye” is an inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the whites of the eyes. The cause is usually viral (if bacteria are involved, the discharge will be thick and yellow-green). Conjunctivitis can also be caused by allergy, irritation from pollutants, windburn, or exposure to too much sun. Homoeopathic remedies can help to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort in conjunctivitis. If significant improvement does not take place within a week, consult a doctor.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this
section. See also “Using Homoeopathy With Professional Guidance”
in What Is
Homoeopathy?
Apis mellifica: Puffy, pink, watery swelling that feels better from cold applications is a strong indication for this remedy. Stinging, burning pain may be experienced, and the eyelids may stick together. A person who needs this remedy often feels irritable, disliking interference.
Argentum nitricum: Swelling with yellowish or pus-like discharge, and redness and inflammation of the whites and inner corners of the eyes, suggest the use of this remedy. The person’s eyes may be tired and achy, worse from light and warmth, and better from cool water, cold compresses, and fresh air. People who need this remedy often have a strong desire for both salt and sweets.
Hepar sulphuris calcareum: When the eyes feel sore or bruised, with inflammation and burning pain, or a feeling as if the eyes are being pulled back into the head, this remedy may be indicated. Yellow discharge can stick the eyelids shut, especially in the morning. Warm compresses, and warmth in general, often ease discomfort. Extreme sensitivity to cold, as well as to light and noise, is often seen. The person may be very irritable and touchy.
Mercurius solubilis: People needing this remedy often feel ill and tired, with erratic body temperature and sensitivity both to heat and cold. Discharge is greenish-yellow and can irritate the lids and margins of the eyes. A person who needs this remedy often has swollen glands, offensive breath, and excessive salivation.
Natrum muriaticum: Swollen lids with burning tears and a feeling that the eyes are bruised suggest a need for this remedy. Mucus or pus forms and can make the eyelids stick together. People who need this remedy often feel sad and tired, acting irritable if someone shows them sympathy.
Pulsatilla: Conjunctivitis with thick, yellow, itchy discharge (often accompanying a cold or the measles) suggests a need for this remedy. The person is emotional and sensitive, feeling worse from warmth and in stuffy rooms, and relieved by cool fresh air.
Sulphur: This remedy may be helpful if the eyes are very red and irritated, with burning, smarting, sticking pains and a nagging itch. The whites of the eyes look red and bloodshot, and the tears feel hot. Symptoms are worse from heat, and light will hurt the eyes. The eyelids may look contracted, especially in the morning.
Homoeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely
matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate,
unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X,
12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are
usually printed on the label.
Many homoeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows:
Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to
wait and let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has
clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies
with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required
a few times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated a few times
a day; and in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be
sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a
different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homoeopathy? and Understanding Homoeopathic
Potencies.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.
2007-09-01