Last updated: Apr 12, 2024
10 best herbal teas for eye health
A soothing cup of herbal tea can work wonders for eye health.
Bilberry tea is rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that protect the retina and reduce inflammation. Ginkgo biloba tea improves blood flow to the eyes, enhancing vision and reducing fatigue.
Eyebright tea, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps to alleviate dryness and irritation. Meanwhile, turmeric tea contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant that shields the eyes from oxidative stress.
By incorporating these herbal teas into your daily routine, you'll be nurturing your peepers with the finest nature has to offer.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile tea contains antioxidants, like flavonoids, which directly benefit eye health.
These flavonoids protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, preventing age-related macular degeneration and promoting overall eye health. Furthermore, chamomile tea's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the eye, alleviating irritation and soothing strained eyes. The tea's antimicrobial properties also inhibit the growth of bacteria that can lead to eye infections.
Additionally, chamomile tea's ability to relax muscles, combined with its cool temperature when used as a compress, can reduce eye strain and fatigue.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with eye health.
- Flowers: Chamomile flowers contain antioxidants that support eye health by fighting damaging free radicals.
- Leaves: The leaves of chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated eyes.
- Seeds: Chamomile seeds are rich in flavonoids, which are known to protect the eyes from UV radiation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with eye health.
- Apigenin: Apigenin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is known to help filter harmful blue light and protect the eyes from damage caused by UV radiation.
- Alpha-bisabolol: Alpha-bisabolol has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation in the eyes.
- Chamazulene: Chamazulene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Matricin: Matricin is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help reduce eye discomfort and inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for eye health.
- In a heatproof container, pour boiling water over 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers.
- Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
- Strain the tea to remove the chamomile flowers, leaving behind the brewed tea.
- Let the tea cool down to a comfortably warm temperature.
- Gently apply the chamomile tea to a clean washcloth and place it over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.
2. Eyebright
Eyebright tea contains compounds that demonstrate a clear, direct benefit for eye health.
This herbal tea includes tannins and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, defending eye tissues from oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, eyebright tea consists of iridoid glycosides, like aucubin, that protect the eyes from damage caused by excessive light exposure. Furthermore, it has antimicrobial qualities, helping to maintain a healthy eye environment.
Drinking eyebright tea offers a simple, natural approach to support overall eye health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in eyebright tea that help with eye health.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, the eyebright flowers contain active compounds that support eye health.
- Leaves: Packed with nutrients, the leaves aid in soothing irritations and reducing inflammation in the eyes.
- Aerial Parts: (Note
The list below shows the primary active constituents in eyebright tea that aid with eye health.
- Tannins: These are astringent and anti-inflammatory, helping to soothe irritated eyes and reduce inflammation.
- Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants, protecting the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
- Phenolic acids: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, aiding in preventing eye infections.
- Iridoid glycosides: Have anti-inflammatory effects and may help alleviate symptoms of eye inflammation and irritation.
- Essential oils: Contain components like eucalyptol and limonene, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, beneficial for overall eye health.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright tea for eye health.
- In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried eyebright herb with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to be released.
- Strain the tea to remove the herb and ensure a smooth drinking experience.
- Discard the used herb and let the tea cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Drink 1-2 cups of eyebright tea daily for optimal eye health benefits.
3. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba tea contains antioxidants that protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, according to scientific research.
This tea improves blood circulation, including the circulation in the eye area, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to eye tissues. Additionally, it helps reduce eye strain and inflammation, making it a popular natural remedy for eye health. Ginkgo Biloba tea's flavonoids and terpenoids contribute to its potent effects, enhancing vision and possibly slowing down eye-related diseases' progression.
Therefore, drinking Ginkgo Biloba tea benefits eye health through its antioxidant properties, enhanced blood circulation, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginkgo biloba tea that help with eye health.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, leaves of Ginkgo Biloba are commonly used to make medicinal tea that supports eye health by potentially improving blood circulation in the eye area.
- Seeds: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, Ginkgo Biloba seeds can aid in reducing eye inflammation and promoting overall eye health when consumed as a medicinal tea.
- Bark: Containing high levels of flavonoids, the bark of Ginkgo Biloba contributes to making medicinal tea that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, thus contributing to improved eye health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginkgo biloba tea that aid with eye health.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and support overall eye health.
- Terpene Lactones: This group includes ginkgolides and bilobalides, which improve blood flow to the eyes and may help protect against age-related eye diseases.
- Proanthocyanidins: These powerful antioxidants help maintain the structural integrity of capillaries, promoting proper circulation and oxygen supply to the eyes.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginkgo biloba tea for eye health.
- In a tea infuser, place one rounded teaspoon (about 1-2 grams) of dried ginkgo biloba leaves.
- Pour boiling water (200-212°F) over the infuser, ensuring all leaves are saturated.
- Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
- Remove the infuser and discard the used leaves.
- Pour the tea into a cup and enjoy it while it's still warm, up to three times a day for optimal eye health benefits.
4. Bilberry
Bilberry tea contains high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
These antioxidants enhance the health of the eyes by improving blood flow in the capillaries of the eye and strengthening the collagen in eye tissue. Moreover, bilberry tea reinforces rhodopsin, a purple pigment in the eye responsible for night vision, facilitating vision in low-light conditions. Additionally, it reduces eye fatigue and inflammation, providing relief for individuals who use digital devices for extended periods.
Regular consumption of bilberry tea, therefore, promotes overall eye health by providing essential antioxidants and supporting crucial eye functions.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in bilberry tea that help with eye health.
- Leaves: Rich in anthocyanins, the leaves of bilberry plants are used to make medicinal tea that supports eye health due to its antioxidant properties.
- Berries: Packed with antioxidants, bilberry berries are used to create medicinal tea that promotes eye health by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress.
- Flowers: Containing flavonoids and other beneficial compounds, bilberry flowers are used in medicinal teas that enhance eye health by reducing inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in bilberry tea that aid with eye health.
- Anthocyanins: These are powerful antioxidants that help protect the eye's retina from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the eye, potentially alleviating symptoms of dry eye and other inflammatory eye conditions.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds can help reduce redness and irritation in the eye, providing relief for symptoms of dry eye and other eye conditions.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anti-allergenic properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of eye allergies and reduce redness and itching in the eye.
- Resveratrol: This polyphenol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the eye from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other eye conditions.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bilberry tea for eye health.
- In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried bilberries and 8 ounces of boiling water; let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove bilberry solids.
- Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste.
- Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day.
- Discard any leftover tea after 24 hours.
5. Rooibos
Rooibos tea, native to South Africa, contains several antioxidants such as aspalathin and quercetin, which protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
One specific antioxidant, aspalathin, found exclusively in rooibos, positively influences the body's antioxidant defenses and helps maintain eye health. Moreover, rooibos tea's anti-inflammatory properties, owing to the presence of the antioxidant quercetin, alleviate inflammation in the eye tissue, further contributing to overall eye health. Additionally, rooibos tea's ability to improve circulation ensures a consistent supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to the eyes, promoting their overall well-being.
Lastly, rooibos tea's natural supply of vital minerals, including zinc and copper, contributes to enzyme production and supports the long-term maintenance of eye health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rooibos tea that help with eye health.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, the leaves of the rooibos plant are used to make medicinal tea that supports eye health by neutralizing free radicals.
- Flowers: Containing bioactive compounds, rooibos flowers produce a caffeine-free tea that promotes eye health by reducing oxidative stress.
- Seeds: The seeds of the rooibos plant yield an anti-inflammatory tea, beneficial for maintaining eye health by alleviating inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rooibos tea that aid with eye health.
- Aspalathin: This antioxidant helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, protecting the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and promoting overall eye health.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration and cataracts by reducing inflammation in ocular tissues.
- Nothofagin: Another antioxidant in rooibos, nothofagin supports eye health by scavenging free radicals and preventing cellular damage, which can lead to age-related eye diseases.
- Orientin: As an antioxidant, orientin helps maintain eye health by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of developing cataracts and other age-related eye conditions.
- Isoorientin: Similar to orientin, isoorientin possesses antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting overall eye health.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos tea for eye health.
- Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool down to 205 degrees Fahrenheit, as boiling water can damage the tea's antioxidants.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of loose rooibos tea or one rooibos tea bag in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to extract its maximum health benefits.
- Remove the tea bag or strain the loose tea leaves to prevent over-steeping and a bitter taste.
- Optionally, add a dollop of honey or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the tea's taste and antioxidant properties.
- Drink the rooibos tea warm or let it cool down and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for a refreshing iced tea.
6. Saffron
Saffron tea, derived from the Crocus sativus flower, contains saffron, a potent antioxidant.
This antioxidant, known as crocin, protects the eyes by neutralizing free radicals that damage cells. Research demonstrates that saffron tea stimulates eye health by reducing oxidative stress, improving retinal function, and slowing down age-related macular degeneration. Furthermore, saffron's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate eye inflammation, ensuring optimal eye health.
Consequently, regular consumption of saffron tea bolsters eye health, contributing to overall visual well-being.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in saffron tea that help with eye health.
- Flowers: Saffron flowers contain high levels of antioxidants, which help protect the eyes from damage and improve eye health.
- Stigmas: The stigmas of saffron flowers, also known as saffron threads, contain crocin and safranal, which are beneficial for eye health by improving vision and reducing eye inflammation.
- Leaves: Saffron leaves have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support eye health, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in saffron tea that aid with eye health.
- Crocin: This carotenoid in saffron tea has antioxidant properties that can help protect eye tissue from free radical damage and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Safranal: This volatile oil in saffron tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, potentially preventing or slowing down the progression of eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.
- Picrocrocin: This compound in saffron tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, possibly reducing the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and other eye conditions.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid in saffron tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye diseases.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid in saffron tea also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially preventing or slowing down the progression of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saffron tea for eye health.
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of water until boiling, then add 1 pinch (about 20-30 threads) of saffron strands and let it simmer for 2 minutes to extract the color and flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon of honey or sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice to a cup for added health benefits and to balance the taste.
- Pour the saffron water through a strainer into the cup to remove the saffron strands.
- Stir well to dissolve the sweetener and mix it with the saffron-infused water.
- Drink the saffron tea while it's still warm, up to 2-3 times a day, for a few weeks, to promote eye health.
7. Fennel
Fennel tea contains antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and vitamin C, which protect the eyes by neutralizing free radicals that cause damage to eye tissues.
The tea's antioxidants also reduce inflammation, a contributing factor in age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Additionally, fennel tea's potassium content supports the proper functioning of the optic nerve, ensuring clear and healthy vision. Furthermore, vitamin A, present in fennel tea, promotes eye health by maintaining a healthy retina and reducing the risk of night blindness.
Lastly, fennel tea's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties aid in preventing dry eye syndrome, ensuring overall eye comfort and health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in fennel tea that help with eye health.
- Seeds: Fennel seeds are rich in antioxidants that support overall eye health by fighting free radicals.
- Flowers: Fennel flowers contain vitamin C, which promotes eye health by supporting collagen production in the eye.
- Leaves: Fennel leaves have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce eye redness and puffiness.
- Stems: Fennel stems are a natural source of vitamin A, a vital nutrient for maintaining good vision.
- Rhizomes: Fennel rhizomes are high in zinc, which helps protect the eyes from damage caused by light.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tea that aid with eye health.
- Anethole: This compound has been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
- Flavonoids: These are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and potentially improve eye health.
- Eugenol: This compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Folate: Also known as Vitamin B9, folate is essential for maintaining the health of the optic nerve.
- Vitamin C: This vitamin is an antioxidant that can help protect the eyes from free radical damage and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel tea for eye health.
- Chop one fresh fennel bulb into thin slices, setting aside any fronds for garnish.
- Place fennel slices in a pot, adding 4 cups of water and bringing to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let the fennel simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the fennel tea, allowing it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish each serving with fennel fronds and enjoy 2-3 cups daily for eye health benefits.
8. Nettle
Nettle tea contains rich amounts of vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are essential nutrients for maintaining and improving eye health.
Vitamin A protects the surface of the eye, prevents dry eye symptoms, and reduces the risk of night blindness. Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids found in nettle tea, filter harmful blue light and protect the retina from damage, thus preserving sharp vision.
Regular consumption of nettle tea provides these nutrients, supporting long-term eye health and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in nettle tea that help with eye health.
- Leaves: Nettle leaves are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that support eye health by promoting blood vessel circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Flowers: Nettle flowers contain flavonoids that protect the eyes from oxidative stress, helping maintain overall eye health.
- Seeds: High in fatty acids, nettle seeds support the moisture balance of the eyes and reduce the risk of dry eye conditions.
- Stems: Nettle stems possess anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate eye irritation and soothe eye discomfort.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in nettle tea that aid with eye health.
- Vitamin A: Important for maintaining healthy vision and preventing eye diseases such as night blindness.
- Vitamin C: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting the eyes from free radical damage and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Vitamin E: Helps protect the eyes from free radical damage and reduces the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
- Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Carotenoids that help filter harmful blue light and protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of macular degeneration.
- Beta-carotene: Converted to vitamin A in the body, it helps maintain healthy vision and prevent eye conditions such as night blindness.
- Chlorophyll: A green pigment with antioxidant properties, chlorophyll may help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and age-related eye diseases.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic nettle tea for eye health.
- Pick 2 cups of fresh stinging nettle leaves, using gloves to handle them.
- Rinse the nettle leaves thoroughly and let them soak for 10 minutes to remove any remaining impurities.
- Bruise the nettle leaves gently using a mortar and pestle or a rolling pin to release their nutrients.
- Steep the nettle leaves in boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the tea, discarding the leaves, and let it cool before drinking 1-2 cups daily for eye health.
9. Dandelion
Dandelion tea contains rich amounts of antioxidants, specifically zeaxanthin and lutein, which directly benefit eye health.
Zeaxanthin and lutein accumulate in the eye, protecting it from harmful light and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Furthermore, dandelion tea's antioxidants combat free radicals that can damage eye cells. Additionally, this tea's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate inflammation in the eye, promoting overall eye health.
Lastly, dandelion tea enhances blood circulation, ensuring adequate nutrient and oxygen supply to the eyes.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in dandelion tea that help with eye health.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, the dandelion flowers are used in medicinal tea to improve eye health by fighting free radicals.
- Leaves: High in vitamins and minerals, dandelion leaves are used in medicinal tea to support eye health through proper nutrition.
- Roots: Containing several beneficial compounds, the dandelion roots are used in medicinal tea to promote eye health due to their anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tea that aid with eye health.
- Lutein: This carotenoid antioxidant is found in high concentrations in the eye and helps protect it from damage caused by blue light and oxidative stress.
- Zeaxanthin: Similar to lutein, this carotenoid antioxidant is also found in the eye and helps protect it from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Vitamin A: This essential vitamin is important for maintaining healthy vision and preventing night blindness. It is also involved in the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the eye that allows us to see in low light conditions.
- Vitamin C: This antioxidant vitamin helps protect the eye from oxidative damage and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Beta-carotene: This antioxidant is converted into Vitamin A in the body and is important for maintaining healthy vision. It is also involved in the production of rhodopsin.
- Magnesium: This essential mineral helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the eye, reducing the risk of eye strain and dryness.
- Potassium: This essential mineral is important for maintaining the proper fluid balance in the eye and may help reduce the risk of glaucoma.
- Zinc: This essential mineral is important for maintaining healthy vision and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. It is also involved in the production of rhodopsin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion tea for eye health.
- Gather 2-3 dandelion heads and rinse them under cold water to remove dirt or insects.
- Separate the yellow petals from the green base and leaves, as the green parts can make the tea bitter.
- Heat 2 cups of water until boiling, then add the dandelion petals and let them steep for about 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the petals and discard them.
- Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste, then drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for eye health benefits.
10. Linden
Linden tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that benefit eye health directly.
The antioxidants, specifically flavonoids, protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Linden tea's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate inflammation in the eye, providing relief from conditions like irritation and soreness. Furthermore, linden tea promotes blood circulation, ensuring that the eyes receive a steady supply of nutrients and oxygen.
Ultimately, drinking linden tea supports overall eye health by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and improving circulation.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in linden tea that help with eye health.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, Linden flowers help reduce eye strain and promote overall eye health.
- Leaves: High in flavonoids, Linden leaves assist in reducing inflammation and strengthening blood vessels in the eyes.
- Seeds: Packed with essential oils, Linden seeds improve tear production and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in linden tea that aid with eye health.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants in linden tea can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid in linden tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate eye inflammation and reduce the risk of developing eye diseases such as conjunctivitis and uveitis.
- Quercetin: Another flavonoid in linden tea, quercetin, can help improve capillary integrity and reduce capillary permeability, which can be beneficial for eye health by improving blood flow to the eyes and reducing the risk of retinopathy.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic linden tea for eye health.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried linden flowers.
- Pour boiling water (8 ounces) over the linden flowers.
- Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain out the linden flowers and discard them.
- Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day.
What is eye health and how can it affect your life?
Eye health is the condition of our eyes to see, understand, and interpret the world clearly.
It involves maintaining good vision and protecting eyes from harm. Eye health directly impacts people's lives by enabling them to perform daily tasks with ease, such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Furthermore, it allows individuals to experience the beauty of the world around them, promoting a higher quality of life.
What other natural remedies help with eye health?
Among the most common and effective natural remedies for maintaining eye health are a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and regular screen breaks.
Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fatty acids, particularly those high in Vitamin A, C, and E, has been shown to promote eye health. Foods such as carrots, leafy greens, and fish like salmon and tuna are excellent sources of these nutrients. Proper hydration is also vital, as it helps prevent dry eye symptoms and keeps the eyes lubricated.
Furthermore, taking regular breaks from electronic devices and following the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds - can alleviate digital eye strain and fatigue.