By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Dry Eyes
Herbal capsules for dry eyes are a natural supplement designed to provide relief from the symptoms of dry, irritated, or inflamed eyes.
These capsules typically contain a blend of herbal extracts that help to soothe and moisturize the eyes, reducing redness, itchiness, and discomfort. Examples include capsicum, chamomile, and eyebright, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
By using these herbal capsules, individuals with dry eyes can experience improved vision, reduced eye fatigue, and increased comfort while reading, working on computers, or engaging in other activities that normally exacerbate dry eyes.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for dry eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Bacopa monnieri
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Aloe vera
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Euphrasia officinalis
- 8. Nelumbo nucifera
- 9. Rheum palmatum
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for dry eyes?
- What ailments similar to dry eyes are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain Echinacea, a natural herb that has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea help reduce redness and itchiness associated with dry eye syndrome, while its antioxidant capabilities protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
By taking these capsules regularly, individuals can experience relief from the discomfort and irritation of dry eyes, promoting healthy vision and overall ocular well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate dry eyes by reducing inflammation in the eyes and promoting the health of the tear-producing glands.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and protect the eyes, promoting the health of the tear film and reducing dryness.
- Alkaloids: Echinacoside has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce eye inflammation and promote the health of the ocular surface, potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Roots: They are used to make capsules for dry eyes due to their high concentration of alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: They are used to make capsules for dry eyes because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used to make capsules for dry eyes as they contain glycosides, alkylamides, and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dry eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia roots from a reliable supplier or cultivate your own.
- Clean the dried roots by rinsing with distilled water to remove any impurities or debris.
- Grind the cleaned roots into a fine powder using a food processor or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the ground root powder with a binding agent such as gelatin or pullulan in a 1:1 ratio.
- Fill empty capsule shells with the mixture and seal them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain a rich source of antioxidants, flavonoids, and terpenoids that work synergistically to soothe and moisturize the eyes.
The capsules' ability to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the eyes helps to alleviate dryness and irritation.
Additionally, the herbal extracts in Maidenhair tree capsules have been shown to stabilize the tear film, allowing for more comfortable vision and reduced eye fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene helps with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and improving the integrity of the ocular surface, thus alleviating dryness and irritation.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Ginkgolides: This diterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help improve blood flow to the eyes, reduce inflammation, and alleviate dryness, thereby relieving dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are the primary part used in Ginkgo biloba capsules for dry eyes due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are used as a secondary part in Ginkgo biloba capsules for dry eyes because they contain ginkgolides, which have been shown to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
- Fruits: The fruits are also used in some Ginkgo biloba capsules for dry eyes due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for dry eyes.
- Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall season when the leaves turn yellow and fall from the tree.
- Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves in a single layer at 70-80 degrees fahrenheit for 3-5 days.
- Grind 1,000-2,000 mg of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 500-1,000 mg of the ginkgo biloba powder with 100-200 mg of a natural capsule filler and 50-100 mg of an anti-caking agent.
- Fill empty vegetarian capsules with the ginkgo biloba mixture and seal them using a capsule machine.
3. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain the herb Bacopa monnieri, which has been traditionally used to improve memory and cognitive function.
However, research suggests that it also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and moisturize dry, irritated eyes. By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy eye function, brahmi capsules may provide natural relief from dry eye symptoms such as itchiness, redness, and blurred vision.
This makes them a popular natural remedy for people suffering from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Bacosides: Bacosides, a type of saponin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
- Bitter alkaloids: Bitter alkaloids in Bacopa monnieri, such as brahmine, have been shown to improve the aqueous tear production and enhance the mucin secretion in the eyes, which can help maintain tear film stability and reduce dryness.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, have antioxidant properties that can protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to dry eye syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds, including bacosides, which are believed to provide relief from dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Bacopa monnieri contain a significant amount of bacosides, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and protect dry, irritated eyes.
- Stems: The stems are also used, as they contain a combination of bacosides and other bioactive compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1 pound of bacopa monnieri leaves and stems from mature plants in the morning.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40°c for 24 to 48 hours.
- Weigh out 30 grams of dried bacopa monnieri and grind it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 30 grams of the ground bacopa monnieri with 60 grams of gelatin capsules and fill 200 empty capsules.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
4. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain a concentrated form of marigold extract, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
This natural extract helps to soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dry eye syndrome.
Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids present in pot marigold oil help to moisturize and nourish the eyes, promoting healthy tear production and lubrication.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Triterpenes: These compounds, particularly calendulic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eyes.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, which may contribute to dry eye symptoms, and also have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Calendula officinalis have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and protect the eyes, reducing symptoms of dry eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high content of triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for eye health.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which help to protect and soothe dry, irritated eyes.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to reduce eye inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry eyes.
- Harvest 30g of dried calendula flowers and store them in an airtight container for later use.
- Use a mortar and pestle to grind the dried calendula flowers into a fine powder.
- Weigh out 250mg of the ground calendula powder and mix it with 250mg of a carrier agent.
- Use a capsule filler to fill 50 capsules with the calendula mixture and seal them.
- Label the capsules with the date of preparation and the contents and store them in a cool dark place.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe capsules helps with dry eyes because of their unique ability to nourish and soothe the eyes.
The gel inside aloe vera contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the eyes, which is often the underlying cause of dryness. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals present in aloe vera, such as vitamin A and potassium, help moisturize and hydrate the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
This natural and gentle approach can provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Vitamins a and e: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dry eyes.
- Glucomannan: Glucomannan, a polysaccharide, helps maintain the integrity of the tear film, which can become compromised in dry eye conditions, leading to irritation and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The gel extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is used to make capsules for dry eyes due to its soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Leaves: The extract from the leaves also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
- Leaves: The polysaccharides present in the leaves of Aloe vera help to lock in moisture and protect the eyes from further dryness and damage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry eyes.
- Harvest 100-200 aloe vera leaves from mature plants at the peak of summer when the gel is most abundant.
- Remove the outer skin of the leaves and extract the clear gel from the inner pulp.
- Add 1 tablespoon of glycerin to 100 grams of aloe vera gel to enhance bioavailability and shelf life.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 0.5 to 1 gram of the aloe vera mixture and seal the capsules tightly.
- Store the capsules in a cool dark place for 24 hours before consumption to allow gel to set properly.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and lubricate the eyes.
The bitter compounds in dandelion, such as taraxasterol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant properties may help protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
By promoting healthy eye function, dandelion capsules can provide relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eyes.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage that can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Polysaccharides: Inulin, a type of soluble fiber, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help maintain the health of the ocular surface, potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Leaves: Leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make capsules for dry eyes because they are rich in flavonoids and saponins that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make capsules for dry eyes because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Flowers: Flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make capsules for dry eyes because they are rich in carotenoids and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dry eyes.
- Harvest 25g of dried taraxacum officinale root in the morning when the dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale root in a low temperature oven at 50°c for 24 hours.
- Grind 10g of dried taraxacum officinale root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder within 5 minutes.
- Mix 300mg of the taraxacum officinale powder with 600mg of carrier material in a clean container within 2 minutes.
- Fill 20 empty gelatin capsules with the taraxacum officinale mixture and seal them immediately.
7. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain the herb Euphrasia officinalis, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The capsules work to reduce redness and irritation in the eyes by calming the conjunctiva and promoting healthy tear production.
As a result, eyebright capsules can provide quick relief from dry, itchy, or burning sensations in the eyes, helping to restore comfort and clarity of vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of the eyes, alleviating symptoms of dry eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Euphrasia officinalis have antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to the relief of dry eye symptoms.
- Saponins: Saponins in Euphrasia officinalis have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that help to reduce eye irritation and inflammation, providing relief from dry eye discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and iridoids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help relieve dry eye symptoms.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation and promoting eye health.
- Seeds: They contain iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to relieve dry eye symptoms and promote eye comfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for dry eyes.
- Harvest 30g of dried aerial parts of euphrasia officinalis from a trusted supplier or cultivated area.
- Weigh 1g of the dried euphrasia officinalis aerial parts using a precision balance and record the weight.
- Mix the weighed euphrasia officinalis aerial parts with 2g of vegetable cellulose powder and 0.5g of silica in a bowl.
- Fill a capsule machine with the prepared mixture and set the machine to fill 100 capsules in about 10 minutes.
- Inspect the capsules for any visible signs of contamination or debris and store them in a cool dry place.
8. Nelumbo nucifera
Lotus capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain natural ingredients that work to soothe and moisturize the eyes.
The herbal extracts in these capsules, such as chamomile and calendula, have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and irritation, while also increasing tear production to lubricate and comfort the eyes.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in lotus capsules help to protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall eye health and reducing dryness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Nelumbo nucifera capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Saponins: These compounds help alleviate dry eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the corneal surface, thereby improving tear quality and reducing symptoms of dry eye disease.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote the health of the ocular surface, thereby alleviating dry eye symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help reduce inflammation, improve tear quality, and promote the health of the ocular surface, thereby alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lotus used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Roots: Used to make capsules for dry eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: Employed to help alleviate dry eye symptoms with their hydrating and protective effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lotus for dry eyes.
- Dry the nelumbo nucifera flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Crush the dried flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered nelumbo nucifera with 2 parts of gelatin and 1 part of glycerin in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them using a capsule filler machine.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
9. Rheum palmatum
Chinese rhubarb capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain a potent combination of herbal ingredients that work to nourish and moisten the eyes.
The key compound, Rheum palmatum, is known for its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation in the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes.
As a result, it can help to soothe and lubricate dry, irritated eyes, providing instant relief from discomfort and promoting healthy vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum palmatum capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Anthraquinones: These glycoside compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate dryness in the eyes by their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, contributing to the relief of dry eye symptoms.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help reduce eye irritation and promote tear production, alleviating dry eye discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese rhubarb used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Rheum palmatum are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, making them effective in soothing dry eyes.
- Barks: The barks of Rheum palmatum contain compounds that have been traditionally used to treat dry eyes, promoting moisture and reducing irritation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rheum palmatum are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect and soothe dry, irritated eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese rhubarb for dry eyes.
- Dry the rheum palmatum herb at a low temperature of 40°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture completely.
- Grind the dried rheum palmatum into a fine powder using a mill or grinder to achieve uniform texture.
- Mix 1 part of the rheum palmatum powder with 2 parts of gelatin or plant-based binder in a bowl.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder-binder mixture and prepare the capsules according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Store the herbal rheum palmatum capsules in a cool dark place for up to 6 months to maintain potency.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with dry eyes because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
When taken orally, glycyrrhizin is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the eyes, where it reduces inflammation and irritation caused by dryness. Additionally, licorice root extract also exhibits antioxidant activity, which helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, herbal licorice capsules can provide relief for individuals suffering from dry, irritated eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with dry eyes.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting the health of the ocular surface.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra help with dry eyes by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that protect the eyes from damage caused by dryness and oxidative stress.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin in Glycyrrhiza glabra helps with dry eyes by inhibiting the production of cortisol, a hormone that can contribute to dry eye syndrome by causing inflammation and damaging the ocular surface.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to reduce dryness in the eyes.
- Barks: The barks are used because they contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to soothe and protect dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their content of flavonoids, saponins, and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry eyes.
- Harvest 500g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or your own garden.
- Grind the harvested roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill for 5 minutes.
- Mix 20g of the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra root powder with 100g of gelatin in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 200-500mg of the glycyrrhiza glabra root powder mixture using a capsule filling machine.
- Store the herbal capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for dry eyes?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with dry eyes is a blend of Eyebright, Goldenseal, and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC).
Eyebright is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling. Goldenseal has antimicrobial properties that combat infections, while NAC is an antioxidant that helps to protect the eyes from damage. This combination can help to soothe and heal dry, irritated eyes by reducing inflammation, fighting infections, and promoting overall eye health.
This blend may also improve tear quality and reduce symptoms of dry eyes.
What ailments similar to dry eyes are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to dry eyes that are treated with herbal capsules are conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction.
These conditions often cause inflammation, redness, and irritation of the eyes.
Herbal capsules containing ingredients such as bilberry, eyebright, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the affected area, reducing discomfort and promoting healthy vision.