By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Dry Eyes
Herbal creams for dry eyes are topical ointments infused with natural herbs and extracts that provide relief from dry, irritated eyes.
They work by moisturizing the eyes and soothing inflammation. Examples include creams containing aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea, which can help reduce symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
By providing long-lasting hydration, these creams can improve lives by allowing individuals to watch TV, use digital devices, and engage in daily activities without discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for dry eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Borago officinalis
- 4. Althaea officinalis
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Euphrasia officinalis
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Ulmus rubra
- 9. Vitis vinifera
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dry eyes?
- What ailments similar to dry eyes are treated with herbal creams?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe and moisturize the affected area.
The cream's hydrating agents work to lock in moisture, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with dry eyes. Additionally, Echinacea's antioxidant properties help protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by environmental stressors and oxidative processes.
This natural approach can provide relief and promote overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and protect the eyes from oxidative stress, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and irritation in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and promote overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties beneficial for dry eye relief.
- Leaves: They are used for their mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to calm and protect the eyes.
- Flowers: They are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce eye irritation and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dry eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plants are dormant and dry them thoroughly for 2-3 weeks.
- Grind 1-2 cups of dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Infuse 2 cups of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of echinacea powder and 1 teaspoon of beeswax in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil with the infused echinacea mixture and stir until smooth.
- Pour the echinacea mixture into small glass jars and let them cool and solidify for 30-60 minutes before use.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with dry eyes because of its moisturizing and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe vera plant is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants and minerals. These nutrients help to lock in moisture and reduce inflammation in the eyes, providing relief from dryness and discomfort. By lubricating and protecting the eyes, aloe vera creams can help to alleviate dry eye symptoms and promote overall eye health.
Regular use can lead to long-lasting relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with dry eyes.
- Glucomannan: Helps with dry eyes by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the eyes, reducing water loss and providing moisture.
- Vitamins: Contributes to the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, promoting a healthy eye environment and alleviating dryness.
- Fatty acids: Helps to soothe and lubricate the eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting the production of natural tears, thus alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The most used part of Aloe vera for dry eyes creams due to its high content of soothing and moisturizing compounds.
- Gel from leaves: The clear gel extracted from the leaves has anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties that help to relieve dry eyes.
- Extract from leaves: The extract from Aloe vera leaves contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that promote eye health and reduce dryness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry eyes.
- Gather 1 cup of aloe vera gel from 3-4 mature leaves and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler at 150°f for 10 minutes.
- Combine 1/4 cup of distilled water with 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil in a small bowl.
- Add the aloe vera gel mixture to the beeswax mixture in the double boiler and stir until combined.
- Pour the final mixture into small containers and let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
3. Borago officinalis
Borago officinalis, also known as borage, creams helps with dry eyes because of its high content of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid.
This essential fatty acid is crucial for maintaining the health of the tear film and protecting the eyes from dryness and irritation. By promoting the production of healthy tears, borage creams can provide relief and soothe dry, itchy eyes, making it an effective natural remedy for individuals suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Regular use can lead to long-term eye health benefits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Borago officinalis creams that help with dry eyes.
- Saponins: Saponins in Borago officinalis creams may help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and improving the integrity of the tear film, which helps to protect and moisturize the eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Borago officinalis creams may help with dry eyes by exerting antioxidant effects that help to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Phytosterols: Phytosterols in Borago officinalis creams may help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and improving the health of the meibomian glands, which produce the lipid layer of the tear film.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Leaves: Used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and protect dry eyes.
- Seeds: Utilized for their omega-3 fatty acid content, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healthy eye tissue.
- Flowers: Employed for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in protecting and soothing dry, irritated eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for dry eyes.
- Harvest 100g of fresh leaves and flowers of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Blend the harvested plant material with 100ml of cold-pressed olive oil in a blender for 2 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids after 30 minutes.
- Mix the strained oil with 50g of beeswax and 10ml of vitamin e oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler for 10-15 minutes while stirring occasionally until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
4. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with dry eyes because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.
The root of the marshmallow plant contains mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that form a protective barrier on the surface of the eyes, locking in moisture and reducing irritation. As a result, Althaea officinalis creams can help to alleviate dryness, redness, and inflammation associated with dry eyes, promoting a more comfortable and healthy ocular environment.
This makes it an effective natural remedy for dry eye relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with dry eyes.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Marshmallow creams help soothe and lubricate the eyes, providing relief from dryness and irritation.
- Triterpenoids and glycosides: Triterpenoids and glycosides in Marshmallow have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce redness and swelling associated with dry eyes.
- Phenolic acids and flavonoids: Phenolic acids and flavonoids in Marshmallow exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are used due to their high mucilage content, which can provide soothing and moisturizing properties to relieve dry eye symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain flavonoids and mucilages, which help to reduce inflammation and provide a protective barrier for the eyes.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their high mucilage content, similar to the roots, which can help to soothe and lubricate the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for dry eyes.
- Harvest 30g of dried roots of althaea officinalis for use in herbal cream preparation.
- Infuse 200ml of water with 30g of dried roots in a saucepan over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth into a bowl to separate the liquid from solids.
- Combine 100g of candelilla wax and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler and heat until melted for 15 minutes.
- Mix the infused liquid with 100g of coconut oil and the melted wax mixture to create a smooth cream consistency.
5. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream reduces redness and irritation, providing relief from dryness and discomfort. Its ability to calm and protect the delicate skin around the eyes also helps to lock in moisture, reducing the risk of further irritation and promoting a healthy environment for the eyes.
Regular use can help to alleviate dry eye symptoms and promote overall eye comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with dry eyes.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds help reduce inflammation in the eyes, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as oleanolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting healthy tear production and reducing dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: They contain triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that aid in healing and protecting dry eyes.
- Seeds: They are rich in essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, which helps to nourish and moisturize the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh calendula flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and fragrance.
- Dry the flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
- Steep 1/2 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil to create a smooth cream.
6. Euphrasia officinalis
Euphrasia officinalis, also known as eyebright, creams helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils that work together to reduce inflammation and protect the delicate tissues of the eyes. Eyebright creams can help to calm and moisturize the eyes, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
By providing a protective barrier and promoting healing, these creams can help to alleviate the discomfort of dry, irritated eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis creams that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Euphrasia officinalis creams help to reduce inflammation and soothe the eyes, providing relief from dryness and irritation.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Euphrasia officinalis have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome.
- Tannins: Tannins in Euphrasia officinalis have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the production of excess tears and provide relief from dry, itchy eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Euphrasia officinalis are commonly used to make creams for dry eyes because they contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production.
- Flowers: The flowers of Euphrasia officinalis are used in creams for dry eyes due to their high content of glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Roots: The roots of Euphrasia officinalis are also used to make creams for dry eyes, as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote eye health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for dry eyes.
- Harvest fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in late spring when in full bloom for 2 weeks.
- Dry the harvested plant material at 40°c for 24 hours to remove moisture.
- Combine 100g of dried euphrasia officinalis with 50g of jojoba oil and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 60°c for 30 minutes then allow it to cool and solidify completely.
- Whip the cooled mixture with a hand mixer for 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, work together to reduce irritation and calm the eyes. As a natural demulcent, it forms a protective barrier on the ocular surface, locking in moisture and reducing evaporation.
This helps to alleviate dryness, itchiness, and discomfort associated with dry eyes, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals seeking relief from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with dry eyes.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and promote the integrity of the tear film, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to dry eye disease.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and moisturize dry eyes.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing eye irritation and promoting healing.
- Barks: Include triterpenoid saponins that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to calm dry and irritated eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry eyes.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for their medicinal properties.
- Mix 50 grams of the dried roots with 100 grams of sweet almond oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes or until it reaches 60 degrees celsius.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Whip 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of shea butter into the mixture until smooth.
8. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with dry eyes because of its unique properties.
The bark of the Ulmus rubra tree is rich in mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that form a soothing, protective barrier on the surface of the eyes. This barrier helps to lock in moisture, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with dry eyes.
Additionally, Ulmus rubra creams have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, further alleviating dry eye symptoms and promoting overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra creams that help with dry eyes.
- Tannins: Tannins, a type of phenolic compound, can help reduce inflammation and protect the surface of the eyes, alleviating dryness and irritation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and swelling associated with dry eyes, while also promoting the health of the ocular surface.
- Saponins: Saponins, found in the bark of Ulmus rubra, have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which could help calm and moisturize the eyes, alleviating dryness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra are used to make creams for dry eyes due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are used to make creams for dry eyes due to their emollient and soothing properties, which help to calm and moisturize the eyes.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Ulmus rubra are used to make creams for dry eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce eye irritation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried ulmus rubra leaves and stems by cutting them at the base of the plant during peak flowering season.
- Combine the harvested ulmus rubra with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids after 10 minutes of pressing.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 10 drops of vitamin e oil to the strained mixture and heat for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes to an hour.
9. Vitis vinifera
Vitis vinifera, also known as grape, creams helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The extract of Vitis vinifera, rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, soothes and calms the eyes, reducing irritation and redness. It also improves tear quality and increases tear production, providing long-lasting moisture and comfort to dry, irritated eyes. This natural and gentle approach helps to alleviate dry eye symptoms, promoting a healthy and comfortable eye environment.
Regular use can provide significant relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitis vinifera creams that help with dry eyes.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Resveratrol: This polyphenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and improve tear quality, alleviating dry eye discomfort.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect the eyes from dryness, promoting healthy tear production and reducing eye irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of grape used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Seeds: They are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which help to moisturize and soothe the eyes.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and tannins that have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing eye irritation and dryness.
- Buds: They are a rich source of salicylic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic grape for dry eyes.
- Gather 200 grams of dried vitis vinifera flowers and leaves and store in a cool dry place for 2 days.
- Crush 50 grams of the gathered vitis vinifera flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Combine 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat until melted for 20 minutes.
- Mix 50 grams of the crushed vitis vinifera powder with 50 grams of distilled water and heat the mixture in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
- Gradually add the beeswax and coconut oil mixture to the vitis vinifera mixture and stir until well combined for 5 minutes.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with dry eyes because of its unique properties that promote eye health.
The cream's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to reduce inflammation and repair damaged tissues in the eyes. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba's flavonoids and terpenoids help to improve blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
By providing a protective barrier and promoting a healthy ocular environment, Ginkgo biloba creams can help to alleviate dry eye discomfort and promote overall eye well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with dry eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the eyes, thereby promoting healthy tear production and reducing oxidative stress.
- Terpenoids: Ginkgolides in Ginkgo biloba help with dry eyes by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are pro-inflammatory mediators that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms and cause tissue damage.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide in Ginkgo biloba helps with dry eyes by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune response, and improving the integrity of the tear film, ultimately promoting healthy eye function and reducing dry eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for dry eyes.
- Leaves: They are the primary source of the active ingredients used in creams for dry eyes due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids.
- Seeds: They are used to extract bilobalide, a key compound that helps to protect and soothe the eyes.
- Barks: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that are also found in the leaves, contributing to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for dry eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 ginkgo biloba leaves from a healthy plant when they are young and tender.
- Steep 20-30 ginkgo biloba leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids then mix it with 1/2 cup of coconut oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the mixture.
- Heat the mixture over low heat then pour it into small containers and let it cool.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dry eyes?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with dry eyes is a blend of Aloe Vera, Green Tea, and Eyebright.
Aloe Vera soothes and moisturizes the eyes, while Green Tea reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Eyebright, rich in antioxidants, helps to protect the eyes from damage and promotes healthy tear production. Together, these herbal creams create a powerful synergy that can help to alleviate dry eye symptoms, reduce redness, and promote overall eye health and comfort.
Regular application can lead to long-term relief.
What ailments similar to dry eyes are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to dry eyes that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
These conditions often manifest with symptoms like itchiness, redness, and flakiness, which can be alleviated by the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of herbal creams.
Additionally, acne, dermatitis, and contact dermatitis may also be treated with herbal creams to reduce inflammation and promote healing.