The use of Hedyotis species (commonly known as Oldenlandia) for treating conjunctivitis is primarily rooted in traditional medicine, particularly in systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In these traditions, Hedyotis—especially species like Hedyotis corymbosa or Hedyotis diffusa—has been used as an herbal ingredient for its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In TCM, it is sometimes included in herbal formulas applied topically or taken internally for "heat" conditions, which may include eye inflammations such as conjunctivitis. However, the evidence supporting its efficacy for conjunctivitis is anecdotal and based on ethnobotanical records rather than clinical trials.

Scientific studies have investigated the general anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of Hedyotis extracts, but there are no robust, peer-reviewed studies that specifically evaluate its effectiveness for conjunctivitis in humans or animals. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that certain Hedyotis extracts can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. However, these findings do not directly translate to clinical recommendations for conjunctivitis treatment, and no authoritative medical guidelines endorse its use for this condition. Overall, the historical use is traditional, and current scientific evidence is limited and indirect.