The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c4.s4.8

c4.s4.8

नेत्रकर्म *Netrakarma* or applications to the eyes receive various names according to the nature of the substances used and the manner in which they are applied. Pouring of drops into the eyes is called *A'schotana*. A poultice enclosed within a piece of cloth and applied over the lids is called *Piṇḍa*. A paste applied to the lids is called *Viḍálaka*. Medicines applied to the margin of the lids or to the conjunctiva with the finger or a metallic probe are called *Anjana*. These last may be in the shape of powder or liquid or they may be made into sticks or pills which are rubbed with water before use. The probe for applying medicines to the margin of the lids should be six inches long with a rounded bulbous end. It may be made of gold, silver, copper, iron or stone. For habitual use of collyria a lead probe is preferred. When medicines are applied not only to the lids but also to the conjunctiva up to the margin of the cornea, the finger is recommended to be used, as it is soft and safe.