10 best herbal teas for dry eyes

Herbal teas, such as chamomile and calendula, offer a natural solution for individuals suffering from dry eyes.

Chamomile tea's anti-inflammatory properties assist in reducing eye irritation, while its antioxidants help soothe and refresh the eyes. Calendula tea, rich in flavonoids, promotes hydration, acting as a natural lubricant to alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Both teas' soothing warmth increases blood flow to the eye area, aiding in the overall health and moisture of the eyes.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea aids in alleviating dry eyes due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which originate from the tea's antioxidant-rich composition.

These antioxidants include flavonoids, primarily apigenin and luteolin, that demonstrate the capacity to reduce inflammation in eye tissues. Furthermore, chamomile tea contains azulene, a natural compound known for its soothing effects on irritated eyes. The aqueous chamomile extract, when applied topically or consumed, encourages the production of meibum, a lipid crucial for maintaining the tear film's stability.

Consequently, chamomile tea helps prevent dry eyes by promoting tear film quality and reducing inflammation in eye tissues.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with dry eyes.

• Flowers: Contain flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe dry and irritated eyes.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and tannins that can help relieve redness and alleviate discomfort caused by dry eyes.
• Seeds: Source of essential oils with soothing and moisturizing effects, providing relief for dry eyes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and provide relief from dry eye symptoms.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that functions as an antioxidant, protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of dry eye complications.
• Chamazulene: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms by reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Bisabolol: A terpene alcohol that has anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, and healing properties, helping to soothe and moisturize dry and irritated eyes.
• Matricin: A lactone that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, helping to reduce dry eye symptoms and providing relief from discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 1 cup of water in a kettle or pot, reaching a temperature of 212°F (100°C) for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser or strainer.
3. Pour the hot water over the chamomile flowers and steep for 5-7 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
4. Remove the tea infuser or strainer to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.
5. Allow the chamomile tea to cool down to a warm temperature, then drink slowly to soothe and moisturize dry eyes.

2. Eyebright

Eyebright tea brings relief to dry eyes due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties derived from tannins and flavonoids present in the plant.

These compounds aid in reducing eye redness, irritation, and tearing by constricting blood vessels and protecting the eye's surface. Furthermore, eyebright tea contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, a common cause of dry eyes. Drinking eyebright tea or using it as a compress provides a soothing, natural remedy for dry eyes, improving overall eye comfort.

Its long-standing traditional use and recent scientific studies support the tea's effectiveness in addressing dry eye conditions.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in eyebright tea that help with dry eyes.

• Flowers: Contain compounds that help reduce eye inflammation and irritation.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and tannins that soothe and moisturize dry eyes.
• Seeds: Have high levels of essential fatty acids, promoting eye lubrication and overall eye health.
• Stems: Contain astringent properties that help relieve redness and dryness in the eyes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in eyebright tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Aucubin: A powerful antioxidant that helps reduce eye inflammation and irritation, providing relief for dry eyes.
• Flavonoids: These anti-inflammatory compounds help alleviate dry eye symptoms by reducing redness and irritation.
• Tannins: Known for their astringent properties, tannins help to tighten and strengthen eye tissues, providing temporary relief for dry eyes.
• Phenolic acids: With antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, phenolic acids help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and irritation caused by dry eyes.
• Essential oils: These oils have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms and promote overall eye health.
• Terpenes: Known for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, terpenes help reduce redness, itchiness, and swelling associated with dry eyes.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes, then pour over 1 teaspoon of dried eyebright herb.
2. Steep the herb in hot water for 10-15 minutes to extract its beneficial compounds.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the used herb solid residues.
4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste, mixing well until fully dissolved.
5. Drink the tea while warm, 2-3 times a day, to alleviate dry eye symptoms.

3. Fennel

Fennel tea addresses dry eyes by stimulating the production of tears.

This herbal tea contains compounds that promote lubrication in the eyes, offering immediate relief. Fennel's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate any swelling or irritation around the eyes, while its antioxidants protect the eyes from damage caused by environmental stressors.

Furthermore, fennel tea supports overall eye health by improving blood circulation, ensuring that the eyes receive proper nourishment.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in fennel tea that help with dry eyes.

• Seeds: Contain compounds that can provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, potentially easing dry eye symptoms.
• Leaves: Rich in essential oils, contributing to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to help alleviate dry eye conditions.
• Flowers: Packed with rosmarinic acid, known for its ability to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that encourage tear production and help manage dry eye symptoms effectively.
• Rhyzomes: Include antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, promoting eye health and providing relief for dry eye symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and supporting the production of healthy tears.
• Anethole: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms and reduce eye redness.
• Fenchone: This compound helps to reduce inflammation and can promote tear production, providing relief for dry eyes.
• Limonene: This antioxidant supports overall eye health, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to dry eyes.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel tea for dry eyes.

1. Chop 1 tablespoon of fresh fennel bulb or 1 teaspoon of dried fennel seeds.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and add the chopped fennel, then simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the fennel pieces, reserving the liquid.
4. Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
5. Drink the fennel tea up to three times a day to help alleviate dry eyes.

4. Goldenrod

Goldenrod tea alleviates dry eyes due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and irritation.

This herbal tea contains flavonoids, specifically rutin and quercetin, known for their ability to strengthen blood vessels and promote healthy circulation in the eyes. Moreover, goldenrod tea exhibits antimicrobial effects, combating potential eye infections that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Furthermore, it encourages tear production, providing natural lubrication and hydration to the eyes.

Lastly, goldenrod's soothing qualities calm the eyes, offering relief from discomfort associated with dry eye symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in goldenrod tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Contain compounds that help to increase tear production, providing relief for dry eyes.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that support eye health, reducing symptoms of dry eyes.
• Seeds: Provide essential oils and nutrients that nourish and moisturize the eyes, alleviating dryness.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in goldenrod tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants protect the eyes from oxidative stress and help reduce inflammation, which can alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Saponins: They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated eyes, providing relief for dry eye sufferers.
• Phenolic acids: As antioxidants, they help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
• Essential oils: They have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce eye inflammation and risk of infection, beneficial for dry eye relief.
• Polysaccharides: These compounds can help increase tear production, providing moisture and relieving dry eye discomfort.
• Tannins: They have astringent properties that can help reduce eye redness and irritation, offering relief for dry, itchy eyes.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 2 cups of water in a kettle or pot for 5-10 minutes.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of dried goldenrod flowers to a teapot or infuser.
3. Pour the boiling water over the goldenrod and steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the goldenrod solids.
5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to 3 times a day.

5. Linden

Linden tea offers relief for dry eyes due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce irritation.

This herbal tea contains flavonoids that stimulate tear production, thereby hydrating the eyes. Additionally, linden tea's antioxidants protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, while its soothing effect calms dry eye symptoms.

Lastly, consistent consumption of linden tea helps maintain eye health by promoting moisture retention in the eyes.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in linden tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Contain compounds that can help increase tear production, potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that support eye health, possibly reducing inflammation and providing relief for dry eyes.
• Seeds: Contain essential oils with moisturizing properties, which can help soothe and hydrate dry, irritated eyes.
• Buds: High in flavonoids and other beneficial compounds, promoting healthy tear film and providing potential relief for dry eyes.
• Bark: Has astringent properties that can help reduce redness and irritation, offering relief for dry eye symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in linden tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Flavonoids: Possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce eye inflammation, relieving symptoms of dry eyes.
• Mucilage: Forms a soothing film over the eyes that can provide lubrication and alleviate dry eye discomfort.
• Tannins: Act as astringents, helping to tighten and strengthen eye tissues, which can improve the eye's ability to retain moisture.
• Antioxidants: Protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage, promoting overall eye health and reducing the risk of dry eyes.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic linden tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried linden flowers to a teapot.
3. Pour the boiling water over the linden flowers and steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the spent flowers.
5. Drink the tea while warm, up to 3 times daily for dry eye relief.

6. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea aids dry eyes because it contains mucilage, a substance known for its ability to soothe and protect mucous membranes.

This herbal tea's anti-inflammatory properties, derived from its high flavonoid content, help reduce redness and irritation in the eyes. Furthermore, marshmallow tea's hydrating effect, due to its polysaccharide structure, increases the water content in the eyes. Additionally, it enhances the eye's overall health by promoting the production of tears, which are essential for maintaining eye moisture.

Lastly, the antioxidant compounds in marshmallow tea shield the eyes from oxidative stress and damage, contributing to a decrease in dry eye symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in marshmallow tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and triterpene acids, leaves help alleviate dry eye symptoms by reducing inflammation and supporting mucin production.
• Flowers: Containing antioxidants and essential oils, flowers aid in reducing redness and irritation, promoting healthy tear film production.
• Seeds: Abundant in fatty acids and mucilage, seeds help soothe and lubricate the eyes, addressing dry eye symptoms by increasing hydration and protecting the delicate ocular surface.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Mucilage: This constituent forms a slick gel that coats and soothes dry, irritated eye tissues.
• Polysaccharides: These complex sugars help to retain moisture in eye tissues, reducing dryness.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidants protect the eyes from damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to improved eye health.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and irritation in dry eyes.
• Ascorbic acid: This essential nutrient supports collagen production for healthy eye tissues while providing additional antioxidant protection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for dry eyes.

1. Combine 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of dried marshmallow root in a saucepan, bringing it to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to draw out the herb's properties.
3. Strain the tea, discarding the marshmallow root solids.
4. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey for sweetness, if desired.
5. Serve the marshmallow tea warm, sipping it slowly to soothe dry eyes.

7. Parsley

Parsley tea aids dry eyes due to its high vitamin and antioxidant content, specifically vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyes.

This herbal tea's anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate eye inflammation, a common cause of dry eyes. Furthermore, drinking parsley tea regularly promotes tear production, providing natural relief for dry eye symptoms. Additionally, parsley tea's high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin protect the eyes from environmental stressors, reducing the risk of dry eyes.

Lastly, parsley tea's hydrating effect helps maintain the eye's overall moisture, ensuring long-lasting relief for dry eye sufferers.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in parsley tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of flavonoids, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin, which help reduce inflammation and protect the eyes from damage caused by dryness.
• Seeds: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils that help soothe irritated eyes, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
• Flowers: Contain volatile oils and flavonoids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in parsley tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Vitamin A: Vital for maintaining healthy eyes and vision, aids in producing tears to prevent dry eyes.
• Lutein: Protects eyes from damage caused by dryness and screens blue light to reduce eye strain.
• Vitamin C: Supports eye health by providing antioxidants, helps in the production of tears to alleviate dryness.
• Vitamin E: Combats oxidative stress, reduces inflammation, and enhances tear film stability.
• Beta-carotene: Precursor to Vitamin A, promotes healthy tear production and supports overall eye health.
• Chlorophyll: Rich in antioxidants, helps to reduce inflammation and supports eye lubrication to soothe dry eyes.
• Flavonoids: Offer anti-inflammatory properties, help protect the eyes from environmental stress and dryness.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic parsley tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot on high heat for 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove parsley leaves, then let it cool for 5 minutes.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and stir until fully dissolved.
5. Pour the tea into a cup and enjoy immediately for soothing relief.

8. Raspberry

Raspberry tea alleviates dry eyes due to its astringent properties, which tighten and strengthen eye tissues.

This tea contains antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin A, that nourish and protect the eyes. Furthermore, raspberry tea's anti-inflammatory qualities reduce irritation and redness in the eyes. The tea's mild diuretic effect promotes body hydration, ensuring sufficient moisture for the eyes.

Lastly, raspberry tea's tannins create a protective film over the eyes, preventing dryness and providing comfort.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in raspberry tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and relieve dry eye symptoms.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids, known to improve circulation and reduce redness and irritation.
• Seeds: Contain essential fatty acids that help maintain the lipid layer of the tear film, preventing dryness.
• Buds: High in tannins, which have astringent properties that can help soothe and protect dry, irritated eyes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in raspberry tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Tannins: These astringent compounds tighten and strengthen blood vessels, reducing inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant flavonoids protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, vitamin C supports eye health by promoting collagen production, which aids in maintaining the health of the eye's surface.
• Ellagic acid: This potent antioxidant protects the eyes from damage due to oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and helping to prevent dry eye symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic raspberry tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 2 cups of water, then add 2 teaspoons of dried raspberry leaves, letting it steep for 10 minutes.
2. In a separate pot, heat 1 cup of water with 1 teaspoon of chamomile flowers, simmering for 5 minutes.
3. Combine both mixtures in a large tea pot, adding 1 tablespoon of honey and stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Allow the combined tea to cool down to a warm temperature.
5. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids, and drink up to 3 cups daily for soothing relief.

9. Red Clover

Red clover tea contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which are essential in maintaining eye health and hydration.

These compounds act as natural anti-inflammatory agents, reducing irritation and facilitating tear production. Moreover, red clover tea is rich in isoflavones that improve blood circulation, ensuring sufficient oxygen and nutrient supply to the eyes. By drinking red clover tea regularly, dry eye symptoms such as itching, burning, and redness significantly decrease, offering long-term relief.

Consequently, red clover tea's natural properties fortify the eyes' overall wellbeing while providing a soothing effect for those who suffer from dry eyes.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in red clover tea that help with dry eyes.

• Flowers: Contain isoflavones and antioxidants that can soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
• Leaves: Rich in nutrients and flavonoids that promote eye health and can increase tear production.
• Seeds: Contain essential fatty acids that can help relieve dry eye symptoms and support the eye's oil glands.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in red clover tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Isoflavones: These compounds have estrogenic properties that can help improve tear production in the eyes.
• Gallic acid: This polyphenol has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce eye inflammation and dryness.
• Salicylic acid: This organic compound has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: This antioxidant has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce eye inflammation and dryness.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds can help reduce eye redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover tea for dry eyes.

1. Measure - Pour 2 cups of water into a saucepan.
2. Boil - Bring water to a boil over high heat.
3. Add - Stir in 2 tablespoons of dried red clover flowers.
4. Steep - Remove pan from heat and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
5. Strain - Strain the tea into a cup, discarding solids.

10. Rooibos

Rooibos tea, rich in antioxidants and minerals, serves as a natural remedy for dry eyes by alleviating eye inflammation and irritation.

This tea's antioxidant properties, particularly its high levels of aspalathin and quercetin, reduce oxidative stress in the eyes, addressing dry eye symptoms' underlying causes. Furthermore, rooibos tea's anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects promote healthy tear production, enhancing eye hydration. Its soothing qualities derive from its ability to inhibit histamine release, making it beneficial in treating allergic reactions that result in dry, itchy eyes.

Additionally, routine rooibos tea consumption contributes to overall ocular health, as it protects against eye-related conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rooibos tea that help with dry eyes.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
• Flowers: Rich in phenolic compounds that improve tear film quality and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Stems: Have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated eyes and promote eye health.
• Roots: Contain valuable polyphenols that help relieve dry eye symptoms and protect the eyes from damage.
• Seeds: High in essential fatty acids that support tear production and help maintain healthy eyes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rooibos tea that aid with dry eyes.

• Aspalathin: A powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes, keeping them moisturized.
• Nothofagin: A potent anti-inflammatory compound that aids in soothing dry eyes and alleviating discomfort.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that protect the eyes from damage, helping to maintain proper moisture levels.
• Orientin: A flavone that has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Isoorientin: A flavone that aids in reducing oxidative stress, promoting healthy eye function and tear production.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps protect the eyes from harmful blue light, supporting optimal eye health and moisture.
• Vitexin: A flavone that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall eye health and relieving dry eye symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos tea for dry eyes.

1. Boil 8 ounces of fresh water to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, the optimal temperature for releasing rooibos tea's beneficial properties.
2. Place one rooibos tea bag or one rounded teaspoon of loose leaf rooibos per 8 ounces of water into a teapot or infuser.
3. Pour the boiling water over the tea and let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the tea's antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to develop.
4. Remove the tea bag or strain the loose leaf tea to prevent over-steeping which can result in a bitter taste.
5. Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature, ideally warm but not hot, before consuming it to soothe and hydrate dry eyes.