Almost lost my eye because of using custard apple seeds soaked in wine to wash my hair to treat lice

On August 15, 2025, patient NTL (born in 1964, residing in Long Minh village, Viet Xuyen commune, Ha Tinh province) was hospitalized with burning pain and burning in both eyes.

Previously, the patient had heard word of mouth about a way to treat lice by roasting custard apple seeds, crushing them, soaking them in alcohol, and then using this solution to wash his head directly. However, during the washing process, the alcohol seeped into his eyes, causing severe burns.

After about 12 hours of self-treatment by rinsing with water, the condition did not improve, the eye was still swollen and painful and vision was reduced, so the patient went to Thach Ha Medical Center for examination.

Upon examination, the doctor noted that both eyes of the patient had swollen eyelids, conjunctival congestion, total corneal edema, central corneal ulcer, positive fluorescein staining; visual acuity upon admission was severely impaired - the right eye could only count fingers at a distance of 1 meter, the left eye could only count fingers at a distance of 2 meters.

The patient was diagnosed with corneal conjunctival burns, which can have long-term effects on vision if not treated promptly.

Immediately afterwards, the medical team actively treated the patient with antibiotics, systemic and local anti-inflammatory drugs. After 4 days, the patient's condition improved: conjunctival congestion was less, corneal edema was less, corneal ulcers gradually epithelialized, vision improved significantly - right eye reached 5/10 and left eye 6/10.

According to medical experts, custard apple seeds contain many toxic active ingredients, and when soaked in alcohol, they increase the risk of causing serious damage if they come into direct contact with the eyes, skin or mucous membranes. Using custard apple seeds soaked in alcohol to treat lice has no scientific basis and can potentially lead to serious complications. In fact, there have been many cases of vision loss or long-term sequelae due to reliance on similar folk remedies.

When experiencing lice, dandruff or other scalp conditions, visit a reputable medical facility or pharmacy for advice and safe treatment. Never use unverified word-of-mouth remedies on your own. If alcohol or chemicals accidentally splash into your eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water and quickly go to the nearest medical facility for timely treatment.

Dr. Nguyen Xuan Tuong

Department of Dentistry - Eyes - Ear, Nose and Throat, Thach Ha Medical Center

Source: https://baohatinh.vn/suyt-hong-mat-do-dung-hat-na-ngam-ruou-goi-dau-tri-chay-post294086.html