IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Conjunctivitis

What you need to know:

This condition responds well to natural remedies.

The most useful Herbs:

These herbs are useful as an eyebath - add 1 tsp of herb to a cup of boiling water, simmer for 5 mins to sterilise, strain and cool completely before use or buy ready-prepared tinctures and dilute as indicated:
  • Marigold flowers
  • Eyebright
  • Chamomile flowers
  • Rose petals
  • Raspberry leaves
  • Elderflowers
  • Fumitory
Echinacea taken orally may also be effective to fight infection and boost the immune system.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

Small changes to the child’s diet could also help. Foods rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, are effective for many eye conditions. They include:
  • All the orange and red fruit
  • Dark green leafy vegetables
  • Carrots
  • Liver - but not during pregnancy

Homoeopathy

Conjunctivitis often responds well to the homoeopathic remedies Apis, Argentum nitricum, Pulsatilla and Euphrasia. Tincture of Euphrasia - 2 drops to an eggcup of cooled boiled water - helps relieve inflammation.

Other useful advice:

It’s also important to remember that many cases of conjunctivitis are caused by accidents. If your child is involved in any activity which might involve particles flying into the air - then into the eyes - make them wear good, wrap-around goggles.

Slices of cucumber or cold used teabags placed over each eye are very soothing.

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This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.