10 Best Herbal Teas For Sore Eyes

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for sore eyes, offering gentle relief through their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomile, lavender, and calendula are popular herbs known for their ability to reduce eye strain and redness. To prepare an herbal tea for sore eyes, steep a few fresh or dried herbs in hot water for several minutes, then let it cool before using as an eye compress. Applying this cooled tea to the closed eyelids can help ease discomfort and promote relaxation.

While herbal teas are generally safe, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

1. Matricaria chamomilla

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

While traditionally consumed as a beverage, chamomile tea can also be applied externally to help alleviate symptoms of sore eyes. The tea contains compounds like bisabolol and chamazulene, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may reduce eye irritation and redness. Some people use cooled chamomile tea as compresses or eye washes to provide relief from minor eye discomfort.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using chamomile on the eyes, especially if there are underlying eye conditions or allergies.

2. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often associated with eye discomfort.

Herbal teas made from Camellia sinensis, such as green tea, are often recommended for their soothing properties that can alleviate symptoms of sore eyes. The caffeine in these teas can act as a mild vasoconstrictor, potentially reducing redness and swelling in the eyes. However, it is important to consume these teas in moderation, as excessive caffeine intake may exacerbate eye strain or dryness.

While Camellia sinensis herbal teas may offer some relief for sore eyes, they should not replace professional medical advice for persistent or severe eye conditions.

3. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal plant often used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits.

While it is well-known for its potential effects on mood and sleep, some people also use it to make herbal teas for sore eyes, believing it may help reduce inflammation and promote healing. The tea is typically prepared by steeping dried leaves and flowers in hot water, and it is sometimes combined with other herbs like chamomile or calendula for added soothing properties. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for eye conditions is limited, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using it for such purposes.

As with any herbal remedy, proper preparation and dosage are crucial to avoid potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

4. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its various health benefits, including its potential to soothe sore eyes.

When brewed into a tea, stinging nettle can provide a calming effect due to its high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The tea is believed to help reduce eye irritation and redness by supporting overall eye health and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using stinging nettle tea, especially for those with existing eye conditions or allergies.

While some people find relief from sore eyes with this herbal remedy, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

5. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of sore eyes due to its high concentration of silica and antioxidants.

The tea is believed to support eye health by reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of damaged tissues. While scientific research on its specific effects on eye conditions is limited, many herbalists recommend it as a natural remedy for eye strain and redness. To prepare the tea, the dried leaves are steeped in hot water for several minutes, and it is often consumed in small quantities.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using field horsetail, especially for prolonged periods or in conjunction with other medications.

6. Achillea millefolium

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

While it is not specifically targeted for sore eyes, some herbalists suggest that yarrow tea may help reduce eye irritation and redness due to its calming effects on the mucous membranes. To prepare the tea, steep 1 teaspoon of dried yarrow in hot water for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool before using as an eyewash or compress. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using yarrow for eye conditions, as improper use can cause irritation.

Despite its historical use, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for sore eyes, and it should not replace conventional medical treatments.

7. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits, including its soothing properties for sore eyes.

This herb contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and irritation, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural relief from eye discomfort. Vitex herbal teas are often prepared by steeping dried berries in hot water, allowing the active ingredients to infuse into the liquid. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, many users report that regular consumption of vitex tea can alleviate symptoms associated with eye strain and redness.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating vitex into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

8. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support eye health and alleviate symptoms of sore eyes.

The tea is believed to have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that may help reduce redness and irritation. Rich in antioxidants, sage tea can promote healing and soothe the delicate tissues of the eyes. It is often recommended as a natural remedy for those suffering from eye fatigue or minor infections.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage tea, especially for prolonged or severe eye conditions.

9. Rosa canina

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a popular herbal tea known for its rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties.

When consumed as a tea, it can help soothe sore eyes by reducing inflammation and supporting overall eye health. The high levels of vitamin C in rosehip tea may help strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation, which can alleviate eye strain and redness. Additionally, its mild diuretic effects can help reduce fluid retention around the eyes, contributing to a reduction in puffiness.

While it is not a cure for serious eye conditions, rosa canina herbal tea can be a natural and soothing remedy for mild eye discomfort and fatigue.

10. Silybum marianum

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, including supporting eye health.

While it is well-known for its liver-protecting properties, some studies suggest that silybum marianum may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that could be beneficial for sore eyes. Herbal teas made from silybum marianum are often consumed to promote overall wellness, and some individuals use them to alleviate discomfort associated with eye strain or minor irritations. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using silybum marianum, especially if you have existing eye conditions or are taking other medications.

As with any herbal remedy, the effectiveness of silybum marianum for sore eyes can vary, and it should not replace professional medical treatment.