Can breast milk help a scratched eye?

The Role of Breast Milk in Eye Care: A Closer Look
Breast milk has long been celebrated for its nutritional benefits for infants, but its use as a home remedy for various ailments, including eye issues, has sparked interest and debate. One common question is whether breast milk can help with a scratched eye or other eye irritations.
Traditional Uses and Cultural Beliefs
In some cultures, breast milk is applied to the eyes to treat conditions like conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. This practice stems from the belief that breast milk possesses natural healing properties due to its rich composition of antibodies and immune factors. For instance, a study indicated that breast milk could be effective as a first-line treatment for eye discharge in infants under six months old, suggesting its potential utility in addressing certain eye infections.
However, while breast milk may provide some relief for minor irritations, it is essential to note that its effectiveness is primarily documented in the context of eye infections rather than physical injuries like scratches. The immune factors in breast milk are thought to help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections, which is why some parents might consider it for eye-related issues.
Risks and Considerations
Despite its perceived benefits, using breast milk for eye injuries, such as scratches, is not without risks. Medical professionals caution against this practice, particularly because applying any substance to an injured eye can lead to complications. For example, a report highlighted that using breast milk inappropriately could potentially harm an infant’s cornea, leading to more severe issues.
Moreover, while breast milk may have some antibacterial properties, it is not a substitute for professional medical treatment. Eye injuries can vary significantly in severity, and what might seem like a minor scratch could lead to complications if not properly assessed and treated by a healthcare professional.
Seeking Professional Help
For anyone experiencing eye discomfort or injury, the best course of action is to consult a healthcare provider. They can offer appropriate treatments and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. While breast milk may have its place in traditional remedies, it should not replace medical advice or treatment, especially in the case of eye injuries.
In conclusion, while breast milk has been used in some cultures as a remedy for eye infections, its application for scratched eyes is not recommended. The potential risks and the need for professional evaluation underscore the importance of seeking proper medical care for eye injuries.

What can you heal with breast milk?

6 Creative Ways to Use Breast Milk as a Home Remedy

• Soothing Baby’s Diaper Rash.
• Clearing Baby’s Stuffy Nose.
• Easing Teething Pain.
• Treating Baby’s Acne.
• Helping Baby’s Cradle Cap.
• Healing Cuts and Scrapes.

Can you put breast milk on a wound?

First aid and personal care
The antibody IgA is abundant in breast milk and forms an antimicrobial protective layer that can reduce infection risk and promote healing. You can also use breast milk like an antibiotic ointment on superficial scrapes—although you should never apply it to open wounds or deep cuts.

Is breast milk good for dry eyes?

Human milk contains components previously investigated and proven to be effective in other dry eye studies: EGF, vitamin A, lactoferrin, oligosaccharides, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids [6-10].

Can we use breast milk for eye infection?

In the study, participants whose babies had eye discharge were told to apply either breast milk or antibiotic drops to their baby’s eyes. The researchers found that both remedies worked equally well to clear up eye discharge in babies, and they suggested that breast milk might be a good solution for eye irritation.

Is breast milk good for eye injury?

You guys there is zero evidence showing that breast milk does anything for pink eye. Not only that but there are over hundred strains of bacteria in breast milk. It is not a sterile fluid which means that you could be causing a worse infection in your baby that could potentially make him go blind.

How to apply breast milk to the eye?

Filled with antibodies, vitamins, and minerals breastmilk can work wonders on your young infant’s body. Try placing a drop or two of breast milk directly into the inner portion of your baby’s eyes while they are closed— once they open their eyes, the milk will fall into the eyes and work to clear up any infection.

Does milk help irritated eyes?

Milk and honey may be used as a home remedy for sore eyes as the soothing properties of milk and the antibacterial qualities of honey work together to help treat the eyes. Itching, redness, and swelling are a few symptoms of sore eyes that milk and honey can help with because they are calming and anti-inflammatory.

Can breastmilk heal scratches?

Breast milk has natural antibacterial properties, so it can be used to treat a range of skin problems, including cuts and scrapes. Common skin problems may appear during lactation and breastfeeding, particularly affecting the nipple, areola, and breast.

Can breastmilk heal infections?

Human milk protects against specific pathogens (viruses, bacteria, and parasites) as well as separate clinical illnesses (eg, necrotizing enterocolitis, bacteremia, meningitis, respiratory tract illness, diarrheal disease, and otitis media) [2].

How to heal baby scratch fast?

How can you care for your child at home?

1. Wash the scrape with clean water 2 times a day. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
2. You may cover the scrape with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage.
3. Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.