Replied by Mama to Many (TN) on 11/02/2026

I have not experienced this problem, but can suggest a couple of things I would try if a family member were dealing with optic perineuritis.

Whenever inflammation is involved, my go-to is turmeric. We look for capsules that include some black pepper to make it more potent. I take 2-4 capsules 2-3 times a day for inflammation, depending on severity.

Castor oil is also healing for the eye. Look for an organic hexane free castor oil. I put one drop into the eye daily, preferably before bed as it does blur the vision for a bit.

Always when trying to heal any sort of inflammation, I avoid sugar, dairy (unless it is raw dairy), and processed foods and eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and meats. I use olive oil or coconut oil for cooking.

Recently I used acupuncture for some health issues with surprising success. It might be something to consider. It seems to help the body to heal from many different things.

Let us know how it goes for your daughter!

~Mama to Many~

Replied by Mary (NY, NY) on 11/02/2026

The main treatment for Optic Perineuritis (OPN) is corticosteroid therapy, which causes rapid and dramatic improvement in signs and symptoms typically within hours or within a day. However, recurrence has been reported with a short course of treatment, thus requiring a longer course of treatment with very slow tapering of the dose. The dosage depends on the frequency and rate of recurrence. Few cases have been reported that showed no improvement in vision even with corticosteroid therapy. This was attributed to chronic inflammatory infiltration along with fibrous tissue deposition in the dural sheath causing compressive optic neuropathy and ischaemic infarction. In a case study conducted by Purvin et al, indomethacin was used instead of steroids and was able to successfully treat two patients. Although steroids are the mainstay of OPN therapy, radiation therapy and immunosuppressants such as azathioprine have also been reported to be successful for refractory cases.

The following is from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Optic_nerve

Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve. It is associated with a number of diseases, the most notable one being multiple sclerosis. The patient will likely experience varying vision loss and eye pain. The condition tends to be episodic.

An anti-inflammatory diet is helpful. The Wahls Protocol is an anti-inflammatory Paleo-styled diet.
https://www.stfm.org/familymedicine/vol49issue2/Scherger149

Chicken liver protects the optic nerve. Chicken and chicken bone broth provide collagen which is an important nutrient for eye health.

Coconut oil is antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal.

Dr Oz recommended tomatoes, pomegranate juice and kiwis for eye health on his TV show.

Per Google, foods that support eye health include nutrient-rich options emphasized across health programs like The Dr. Oz Show and general ophthalmology guidelines:
• Vitamin A & Beta-Carotene: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and apricots. These help convert light into images, keep the cornea moist, and support night vision.
• Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Found in dark leafy greens (kale, spinach), broccoli, and pistachios. These antioxidants act as a natural filter for harmful high-energy blue light and protect the macula.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA/EPA): Found in cold-water fatty fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, and trout. They provide structural support to retinal cell membranes and help prevent dry eyes.
• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons), strawberries, and red bell peppers. Vitamin C repairs tissue cells and lowers the risk of developing cataracts.
• Vitamin E: Found in avocados, almonds, and sunflower seeds. This antioxidant protects eye cells from oxidative stress.
• Zinc: Found in eggs, lean meats, beans, and whole grains. Zinc helps transport vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce protective melanin.