Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Gooey, Pink and Swollen But No Bump on 13 Month Old's Eye

by Nancy
(California)

When my first baby had any redness or gooey residue in her eyes I used breastmilk and within a couple of hours it'd vanish. My second baby has similar symptoms but I have no breastmilk. Is there anything "natural" I can give her?

Thank you for taking the time to answer my question.

Answer:

Hi Nancy,

If I didn't have access to breastmilk I would try making a strong echinacea tea. Let it cool then soak a washcloth and make a compress to go over her eye for a few minutes.

I have never used this on eyes, but I have used it in a shallow bath to help other inflammation my children have had.

I have also heard that a small amount of Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with cooled boiled water and used with a compress on the eye can be effective, though I worry that it might be stinging for a baby/small child.

Another option would be a poultice of plantain. Depending on where you are you may already be able to find plantain natively around you (it's very common - considered a weed - and easy to identify). Simply chewing up a leaf to make a gooey poultice and applying a bit with a washcloth would probably help. Plantain will pull a bee stinger out and remove the swelling from that so it is very powerful but also gentle.

Since it is her eye I would try the tea, which is a mild but usually effective remedy first. Hopefully that will work for her.