10 Best Herbal Teas For Dry Eyes

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for individuals suffering from dry eyes, offering gentle hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Chamomile, green tea, and peppermint are among the most commonly recommended herbal teas for their calming and moisture-retaining properties. These teas can be consumed warm or applied as compresses to the eyes to provide relief from irritation and redness. Regular consumption may help reduce eye strain and promote overall eye health by supporting tear production and reducing inflammation.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating herbal teas into a treatment regimen, especially for those with existing medical conditions or allergies.

1. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herbal tea often used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

When consumed as a herbal tea, chamomile may help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting overall eye health. The tea contains compounds such as apigenin, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may support tear production. While scientific evidence on its direct impact on dry eyes is limited, many people report relief from eye discomfort after regular consumption.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating chamomile tea into a treatment regimen for dry eyes.

2. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal plant that has been traditionally used for its potential therapeutic properties.

While it is well-known for its use in treating mild depression, some studies suggest it may also offer relief for individuals suffering from dry eyes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When brewed into a tea, hypericum perforatum can help soothe irritated eyes and improve overall eye comfort by reducing inflammation and supporting tear production. However, it is important to note that St. John's Wort can interact with certain medications, so consulting a healthcare professional before use is recommended.

As with any herbal remedy, individual responses may vary, and it should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to eye health.

3. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential health benefits, including relief from dry eyes.

When brewed into a herbal tea, stinging nettle may help reduce inflammation and support eye health due to its high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The tea is believed to promote tear production and alleviate symptoms such as redness and irritation associated with dry eye syndrome. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using stinging nettle tea, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking medications.

While some studies suggest its benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating dry eyes.

4. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and catechins that may support eye health.

These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with dry eyes. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of Camellia sinensis-based herbal teas may improve tear production and enhance the stability of the tear film. While more research is needed, many individuals report relief from dry eye symptoms after incorporating these teas into their routine.

As a natural remedy, Camellia sinensis herbal teas offer a potentially safe and complementary option for managing dry eye discomfort.

5. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree, is often used in herbal teas to support hormonal balance and may indirectly benefit eye health.

While it is not a direct treatment for dry eyes, some studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could help reduce eye irritation and redness. Herbal teas made from vitex are typically consumed internally, but they can also be used in eye compresses to soothe discomfort. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using vitex for dry eyes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Overall, vitex agnus-castus may complement conventional treatments for dry eyes but should not replace them.

6. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support eye health, particularly for individuals suffering from dry eyes.

The herb contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes. When brewed into a tea, sage can provide a calming and soothing effect, potentially alleviating discomfort associated with dryness. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using sage tea, especially for those with existing medical conditions or who are taking medications.

While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy for treating dry eyes.

7. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support eye health, including relief for dry eyes.

This plant is rich in silica, which is believed to strengthen the tissues of the eyes and promote moisture retention. When brewed into a tea, it may help reduce inflammation and improve tear production, offering natural relief for individuals suffering from dryness. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using equisetum arvense, as it may interact with certain medications or have contraindications for specific health conditions.

Despite its potential benefits, more scientific research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating dry eyes.

8. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been explored for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of dry eyes.

The herb contains compounds like silymarin, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support eye health. Some studies suggest that silybum marianum herbal teas could help reduce eye irritation and improve tear production in individuals with dry eye syndrome. However, while preliminary research is promising, more clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for long-term use.

As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating silybum marianum into a treatment regimen for dry eyes.

9. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb that has been traditionally used for its calming and therapeutic properties.

Rosemary herbal tea is often recommended for its potential to alleviate symptoms of dry eyes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid. The tea may help improve tear production and reduce eye irritation by promoting overall eye health and reducing oxidative stress. Its mild, invigorating aroma can also contribute to a sense of relaxation, which may indirectly support eye comfort.

While it is not a substitute for medical treatment, rosemary herbal tea can be a soothing addition to a holistic approach for managing dry eyes.

10. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

When brewed into a herbal tea, yarrow may help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by promoting tear production and reducing irritation. Its active compounds, such as flavonoids and essential oils, are believed to support eye health and reduce redness. While scientific research on its specific effects on dry eyes is limited, many users report relief after regular consumption.

It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow tea, especially for those with existing eye conditions or taking other medications.