10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Dry Eyes

Herbal decoctions for dry eyes are a natural remedy that combines herbs to create a soothing, liquid solution that helps alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

By steeping herbs like calendula, chamomile, and licorice root in hot water, the resulting decoction can be used as an eye wash or applied topically to the affected area. These herbal remedies help to reduce inflammation, moisturize the eyes, and promote healing, providing relief from dryness, itchiness, and redness.

For example, using a chamomile decoction can provide instant relief for individuals with chronic dry eye, allowing them to enjoy activities like reading or watching TV without discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for dry eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with dry eyes because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and itching.

The decoction's antimicrobial properties also help to combat bacterial overgrowth, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms. Additionally, the soothing properties of the decoction calm irritated eyes, providing long-lasting relief from discomfort and fatigue.

By addressing the underlying causes of dry eye, Kansas coneflower decoctions provide a natural and effective solution for maintaining healthy, comfortable vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinamine and echinoline, may have antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by dryness.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections and promote healing in the eyes, reducing the severity of dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect dry eyes.
• Leaves: They contain compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help alleviate dry, irritated eyes.
• Flowers: They are also used due to their potential to soothe and calm dry, irritated eyes with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dry eyes.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of dried roots of echinacea angustifolia from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind 2 teaspoons of dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine the ground powder with 1 quart of boiling water and let it steep for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

2. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with dry eyes because its extracts contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The decoction's antioxidant properties also help to reduce oxidative stress, a common contributor to dry eye syndrome.

Additionally, the herbal decoction has been found to increase tear production and improve ocular surface hydration, providing long-lasting relief from dry, itchy, and burning sensations associated with this chronic condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help improve blood flow to the eyes, reducing inflammation and promoting tear production, which can alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Terpenoids: This terpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the eyes and promote healing of the ocular surface, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Ginkgolides: Ginkgolides have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, promoting healthy tear production and reducing dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain bilobalide and ginkgolides, which have been shown to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
• Barks: They are used as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe dry eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for dry eyes.

1. Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves.
2. Combine the measured ginkgo biloba leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
4. Strain the decoction using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before serving as needed.

3. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey decoctions helps with dry eyes because of its unique composition.

The plant contains a high concentration of mucilages, which are natural emollients that help to soothe and lubricate the eyes. When used as an eye wash or added to eye drops, comfrey decoctions can provide long-lasting relief from dryness and irritation by creating a protective barrier on the surface of the eyes.

Additionally, comfrey's anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its effectiveness in reducing redness and discomfort associated with dry eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
• Saponins: Saponins have soothing and emollient effects, which can help moisturize and calm the eyes, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with dry eyes.
• Sterols: Sterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from damage and promote healing, reducing dryness and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: Used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisturize the eyes.
• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, which aid in reducing eye irritation and dryness.
• Stems: Used for their similar properties to leaves and roots, providing additional relief from dry and irritated eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25 grams of fresh symphytum officinale leaves and roots on a dry sunny morning by 9 am.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with cold water for 2 minutes.
3. Cut the cleaned plant material into small pieces and combine them with 1 liter of cold water in a saucepan.
4. Heat the saucepan over low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids by 12 pm.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with dry eyes because of its unique composition.

The gel-like substance contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that soothe and moisturize the eyes. When brewed into a decoction, these compounds are easily absorbed by the eye tissues, providing long-lasting relief from dryness and irritation. Aloe's anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce redness and discomfort, while its natural antioxidants promote healthy vision and overall eye health.

As a result, aloe decoctions offer a gentle yet effective way to alleviate symptoms of dry eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help to soothe and moisturize the eyes, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of dry, irritated tissues.
• Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone derivative has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, while also protecting them from further irritation.
• Glucomannans: These soluble fibers help to retain moisture in the eyes, reducing the sensation of dryness and discomfort, and promoting a healthy balance of tears.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are commonly used due to their high gel content, which has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that help soothe and hydrate dry eyes.
• Leaves: The gel extracted from Aloe vera leaves also contains antioxidants and vitamins that help protect and nourish the eyes.
• Leaves: The juice or gel from Aloe vera leaves can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes, providing relief from dry eye symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 500g of fresh aloe vera leaves from mature plants with thick fleshy leaves.
2. Cut the leaves into 2-inch pieces and wear gloves to protect your skin from spines.
3. Soak the aloe vera pieces in 4 liters of water for 2 hours to release their active compounds.
4. Boil the water and aloe vera mixture for 10 minutes then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Strain the decoction through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.

5. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal decoctions helps with dry eyes because its active compound, berberine, has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Berberine reduces inflammation in the eyes, which is a common underlying cause of dry eye syndrome. Additionally, goldenseal's antimicrobial properties help eliminate bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, goldenseal decoctions provide relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes, promoting comfort and clarity for those suffering from this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Berberine: A bioactive alkaloid that helps to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections in the eyes, thereby alleviating dry eye symptoms.
• Hydrastine: An alkaloid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and protect the eyes from infections and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Vasaka alkaloids: A group of compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage in the eyes, thus alleviating dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Roots: Roots are the most used part due to their high concentration of berberine, a bioactive compound that helps reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
• Leaves: Leaves are used due to their rich content of berberine and hydrastine, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that benefit dry eyes.
• Barks: Barks are used due to their content of berberine and hydrastine, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh hydrastis canadensis roots in late summer or early fall and clean them thoroughly.
2. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces and measure out 1-2 grams of hydrastis canadensis per cup of water.
3. Combine the cut root pieces with 1 cup of water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until it has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.

6. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright decoctions helps with dry eyes because of its ability to soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The herb contains flavonoids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with dry eyes. Additionally, eyebright's astringent properties help reduce the production of excess tears, providing relief from burning and itching sensations.

By promoting healthy tear flow and reducing inflammation, eyebright decoctions can provide long-lasting comfort and relief for individuals suffering from dry eye syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and protecting the eyes from oxidative stress, thereby promoting healthy tear production and reducing irritation.
• Catechins: Catechins have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect the eyes from damage and promote the health of the tear glands, thereby alleviating symptoms of dry eyes.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the eyes, promoting healthy tear production and reducing discomfort associated with dry eyes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for dry eyes due to their high content of iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for dry eyes because of their ability to reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
• Roots: They are used to make decoctions for dry eyes due to their rich source of iridoid glycosides and other compounds that help to soothe and protect the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning.
2. Dry the harvested euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers for 2-3 hours at low temperature.
3. Combine 5-10 grams of dried euphrasia officinalis with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with dry eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated ocular tissues.

The decoction's flavonoids and carotenoids work to reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production, alleviating discomfort and dryness. Additionally, the decoction's antioxidants help protect the delicate eye tissues from oxidative stress, promoting overall eye health and well-being.

As a result, pot marigold decoctions provide natural relief for individuals experiencing dry eyes, allowing them to enjoy clearer vision and improved comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Carotenoids: These pigments help to soothe and protect the eyes by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
• Neryl acetate: This terpene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to soothe and protect the eyes, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing in cases of dry eye.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are the most commonly used part due to their high content of bioactive compounds, particularly triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal dry, irritated eyes.
• Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are sometimes used in decoctions due to their lesser-known but still beneficial flavonoids, which contribute to their overall anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Buds: Calendula officinalis buds are occasionally used in traditional medicine for their slightly lower content of bioactive compounds compared to flowers but still offer some anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry eyes.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh calendula flowers or 2 tablespoons of dried calendula at peak bloom for maximum potency.
2. Clean the harvested calendula thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure a safe decoction process.
3. Combine the cleaned calendula with 2 cups of boiling water in a saucepan to create a decoction.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 5 to 10 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with dry eyes because its natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated eye tissues, reducing redness and discomfort.

The diuretic properties of dandelion also help to reduce puffiness and swelling in the eyes, allowing for better drainage of excess fluid and reducing the sensation of grittiness or burning.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in dandelion decoctions protect the delicate tissues of the eye from further damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall eye health and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, promoting healthy tear production and reducing symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
• Terpenes: These compounds in Taraxacum officinale help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune system, and increasing tear production, alleviating dryness and discomfort in the eyes.
• Phenolic acids: These plant-derived compounds help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation, scavenging free radicals, and improving ocular health, ultimately promoting healthy tear production and reducing symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and moisturize dry eyes.
• Roots: Used for their demulcent and soothing properties, which help protect and repair the eyes.
• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce eye irritation and promote eye health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 30 grams of dried taraxacum officinale roots and flowers from a trusted supplier or your garden.
2. Combine the taraxacum officinale with 1 liter of water in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds from the taraxacum officinale.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the taraxacum officinale decoction simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort decoctions helps with dry eyes because it has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The herbal remedy contains flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. Additionally, St John's Wort is rich in antioxidants that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reducing irritation and promoting overall eye health.

Regular consumption of St John's Wort decoctions may help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome, such as itching, burning, and blurry vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Nortriterpene: This compound also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, which may contribute to dry eye symptoms.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Leaves: High in flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and moisturize dry eyes.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and essential oils, which can help reduce inflammation and promote eye health, alleviating symptoms of dry eyes.
• Stems: Contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help protect and lubricate the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for dry eyes.

1. Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
2. Combine the gathered hypericum perforatum with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before consuming it in the desired dosage.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with dry eyes because its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The apigenin in chamomile binds to GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing redness. Additionally, the flavonoids in chamomile help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can cause dry eye symptoms.

When applied as a decoction or added to artificial tears, chamomile helps lubricate and moisturize the eyes, providing long-lasting relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with dry eyes.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid compound helps with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
• Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the ocular surface, alleviating dry eye discomfort.
• Luteolin: As a flavonoid, luteolin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, contributing to relief from dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for dry eyes.

• Flowers: Matricaria chamomilla flowers are the most used part due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves are also used due to their mild flavor and ability to add a soothing effect to decoctions, although their potency is generally lower than that of the flowers.
• Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are occasionally used for their oil, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe dry, irritated eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the flowers from mature plants of matricaria chamomilla in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm dark place or using a food dehydrator at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees celsius for 1-2 hours.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers with 1 cup of boiling water to create a decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve.
5. Use the cooled decoction as required for therapeutic purposes or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for dry eyes?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with dry eyes is a blend of Eyebright, Goldenseal, and Licorice root.

Eyebright soothes and calms the eyes, while Goldenseal reduces inflammation and Goldenseal's antibacterial properties combat infections. Licorice root helps to balance the pH of the eyes and reduce irritation. Together, these herbs promote eye health, reduce dryness, and alleviate discomfort.

Drinking a decoction of 1 teaspoon of each herb in 1 cup of boiling water, steeped for 5-10 minutes, can provide relief from dry, irritated eyes.

What ailments similar to dry eyes are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to dry eyes that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction.

Herbs like calendula, chamomile, and marshmallow root can help soothe and calm inflamed or irritated eyes, while herbs like turmeric, ginger, and eyebright may reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production.