10 Best Herbal Baths For Red Eyes

Herbal baths for red eyes involve the use of specific plant-based ingredients known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Common herbs used include chamomile, calendula, and lavender, which are believed to reduce irritation and promote eye health. To prepare an herbal bath, these dried herbs are typically steeped in hot water to create a soothing infusion, which is then cooled and used to gently cleanse the eyes. This practice is often recommended for individuals experiencing mild eye irritation or fatigue, offering a natural and calming alternative to conventional treatments.

While herbal baths may provide relief, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using them, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

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

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of red eyes.

The plant contains compounds such as hyperforin and hypericin, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce eye irritation and infection. To prepare a St. John's Wort bath, a handful of dried herb is steeped in boiling water for several hours, then strained and cooled before being used as a compress or added to a warm bath. This remedy is often recommended for its soothing effects on the eyes, though it should be used with caution as it may cause photosensitivity.

While some people find relief with this natural approach, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it for persistent or severe eye conditions.

2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, has been traditionally used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for herbal baths aimed at soothing red eyes.

When infused into bath water, chamomile can help reduce eye irritation and inflammation by promoting relaxation and improving overall circulation. The gentle warmth of the bath enhances the absorption of chamomile's beneficial compounds, which may alleviate symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discomfort. To use chamomile baths for red eyes, prepare a strong infusion by steeping dried chamomile flowers in hot water before adding it to a warm bath.

While it is generally considered safe, individuals with allergies to plants in the daisy family should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.

3. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

When infused into bath water, it can help alleviate irritation and redness associated with red eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of the eye area. The high concentration of minerals such as magnesium and silica in stinging nettle may support overall eye health and reduce swelling. To prepare the bath, fresh or dried nettle leaves are steeped in hot water and then added to warm bath water, allowing the steam to gently penetrate the skin around the eyes.

While herbal baths can provide relief, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using them, especially for persistent or severe eye conditions.

4. German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe red eyes due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

When infused into warm water, chamomile creates a calming bath that can help reduce eye irritation and swelling. The essential oils in chamomile, such as bisabolol and chamazulene, are believed to have a calming effect on the delicate eye area. To prepare the bath, steep a handful of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then allow it to cool before using as a compress or adding to a warm bath.

While chamomile baths may provide relief for mild eye redness, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe eye issues.

5. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, commonly known as rosehip, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe and heal red eyes.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of rosehip oil can help reduce irritation and inflammation associated with redness. When used in a warm bath, the essential oils and nutrients from rosehip can be absorbed through the skin, providing a calming effect on the surrounding area. This natural remedy is particularly beneficial for those experiencing mild eye strain or seasonal allergies that contribute to redness.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal baths, especially if there are underlying eye conditions or infections.

6. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

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

When used in herbal baths, it may help alleviate symptoms of red eyes by reducing irritation and inflammation around the eye area. To prepare the bath, a few tablespoons of dried yarrow herb can be steeped in hot water and then cooled before being used to gently cleanse the face and eyes. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using yarrow on sensitive areas like the eyes, as improper use could cause irritation.

While some people find relief from red eyes using yarrow baths, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for this specific application.

7. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe red eyes due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

When infused into warm water, sage leaves release compounds that can help reduce eye irritation and swelling. A sage herbal bath involves steeping fresh or dried sage in hot water and allowing it to cool slightly before using it as a compress or bath for the eyes. This natural remedy is believed to cleanse the eyes and provide relief from minor conditions like conjunctivitis or eye fatigue.

While it may offer comfort, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe eye issues.

8. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

When infused into bath water, lavender can help reduce eye irritation and redness by promoting relaxation and easing tension around the eyes. The essential oils in lavender possess mild antiseptic and calming effects that may support healing of minor eye irritations. A lavender-infused bath can also help alleviate stress, which is often a contributing factor to eye strain and redness.

For best results, it is recommended to use a high-quality lavender essential oil diluted in a carrier oil or a pre-made lavender bath salt to ensure safe and effective use.

9. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of red eyes due to its high concentration of silica and antioxidant properties.

The infusion of horsetail in warm water is believed to help reduce inflammation and irritation around the eyes, promoting a soothing effect on the delicate eye area. These baths are often recommended as a natural remedy for mild eye discomfort, though they should not replace professional medical treatment for serious eye conditions. To prepare the bath, a handful of dried horsetail is boiled in water, then cooled and used to gently cleanse the face and eyes.

While some users report relief from redness and swelling, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using horsetail baths, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing eye infections.

10. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green tea is derived, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is commonly consumed as a tea, some people have explored using Camellia sinensis in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of red eyes, believing its antioxidants may help reduce eye irritation. The infusion of Camellia sinensis leaves in warm water is thought to provide a gentle, cooling effect that may soothe inflamed or bloodshot eyes. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for this specific use, and it should not replace professional medical treatment for eye conditions.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using Camellia sinensis in baths, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or existing eye issues.