Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye, is an acute eye infection affecting the conjunctiva which causes redness and itching of the eyes.
It may also be accompanied by a gritty sensation, sensitivity to light, purulent discharge and/or swelling.
Allergies, such as hay fever, can also be linked to the condition.
Homoeopathic remedies are effective in treating this issue quickly.
Finding the best remedy to suit you or your child’s particular eye infection should be done according to which symptoms match most closely.
Additionally, regularly bathing with warm salt water may help too.
Homoeopathy offers a range of remedies for treating acute conjunctivitis.
Some of the most commonly used treatments include eye drops containing Euphrasia Officinalis, Calcarea sulph, Apis Mellifica, Sulphur, Kali bichromium and Causticum.
By consulting a homoeopathic practitioner, the right remedy can be identified.
Aconite
Aconite is particularly suited to treating the early stages of eye infections where symptoms such as inflammation, heat, dryness, grittiness and sensitivity to light are present.
Allium Cepa
Also known as the red onion.
This remedy of red onion can be beneficial in treating conjunctivitis and its accompanying sensitivity.
There is a strong inclination of rubbing the eyes, which may appear bloodshot, with sensations such as burning, itching or watering.
The discomfort these symptoms cause may feel better outside or with more air around the eyes.
Apis
When Apis is indicated, the symptoms to look for are marked swelling of the eyelids accompanied by a burning and stinging sensation.
Furthermore, the eyes may water and tear production may feel hot.
The whites of the eyes might also appear bloodshot and swollen (chemosis). Using cold applications can help relieve these signs.
Calcarea Sulph
This remedy is a great choice when dealing with thick, yellow eye discharges accompanied by itchiness and burning sensation in the eyes.
Dulcamara
A remedy commonly prescribed for head colds that have manifested in acute conjunctivitis – characterised by red, irritated eyes and a thick yellow discharge.
These symptoms tend to arise or worsen in damp weather.
Euphrasia
A remedy produced from Eyebright, an herb with a long history of medicinal use for eye-related issues.
Homeopathically, this remedy has strong ties to the eyes as well, and is often prescribed in cases of acute conjunctivitis accompanied by stinging, burning, thick discharge, watering of the eyes, light sensitivity and a dry and gritty feeling.
Merc Sol
An effective remedy for those with red, swollen eyelids accompanied by a burning, acrid discharge.
Itching and profuse tearing are often present, with a worsening of symptoms in hot and cold temperatures, particularly at night.
This medicine can be useful for head colds that extend to the eyes when the symptom profile corresponds.
Nux Vomica
A common recommendation for acute conjunctivitis, involving bloodshot eyes and strong light sensitivity, which may be notably worse in the morning.
The itchy and burning sensation in the eyelids may benefit from rubbing.
Additionally, twitching and eye-blinking can sometimes be present.
Pulsatilla
An effective remedy for acute conjunctivitis, where the eyelids become inflamed, and there is a thick and profuse yellow discharge.
Burning and itching of the eyes often occur, causing much rubbing.
These discomforts tend to worsen in the evening or in a warm environment.
It is likewise a common remedy for colds that spread to the eyes, especially in children with matching symptoms.
