10 Best Herbal Teas For Dry Eyes
Herbal teas for dry eyes are a natural remedy that helps to alleviate the symptoms of dry, irritated eyes.
These teas are made from herbs rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and moisturize the eyes. Examples include chamomile, licorice root, and calendula tea, which have been shown to reduce eye dryness and improve vision.
By drinking these teas, individuals can find relief from dry eyes and enjoy a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for dry eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Verbascum thapsus
Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.
The herbal tea soothes and calms the eyes by reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating dryness and irritation. Mullein contains mucilages, which provide a protective barrier on the surface of the eyes, allowing for faster healing and relief from dry, itchy eyes.
Regular consumption of mullein tea may also help to maintain the health and moisture levels of the eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus teas that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with dry eyes by promoting the production of mucin, a substance that helps to lubricate the eyes and maintain their moisture balance.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce eye irritation and inflammation associated with dry eyes.
- Saponins: These compounds have mucolytic properties, helping to break down mucus and promote the clearance of debris from the eyes, thus reducing dryness and irritation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: Rich in mucilages, which help to soothe and moisturize the eyes.
- Buds: Contain bioactive compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
- Flowers: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may aid in relieving dry, itchy eyes.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for dry eyes.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh verbascum thapsus leaves and flowers for the desired amount of tea.
- Dry the collected verbascum thapsus leaves and flowers in a warm place for several days.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried verbascum thapsus leaves and flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a tea infuser.
- Steep the verbascum thapsus mixture for 5 to 10 minutes before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Serve the verbascum thapsus tea hot or cold as desired after it has cooled to a comfortable temperature.
2. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's roots contain compounds that help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing inflammation and discomfort. The tea also has antioxidant properties, which help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
Additionally, Echinacea angustifolia tea has been traditionally used to support eye health and may help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome, such as redness and itchiness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with dry eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, may help with dry eyes by having anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the inflammation and irritation associated with dry eye syndrome.
- Alkylamides: These compounds may aid in the treatment of dry eyes by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can protect the eye tissues from damage and promote healing.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound, present in Echinacea angustifolia, may help alleviate dry eye symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and promote eye health.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of echinacoside, an alkaloid believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used in some teas due to their potential to soothe and calm the eyes, possibly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas that may help alleviate dry eyes, possibly due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of dried echinacea angustifolia roots from a trusted source in late summer or early fall.
- Rinse the dried roots with cold water to remove any impurities from storage or transport.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried echinacea angustifolia roots with 1 quart of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the roots to release their active compounds into the water.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the dried roots.
3. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tea's flavonoids and triterpenoids soothe and calm the eye tissues, reducing redness and irritation. Its ability to promote healthy tissue repair and regeneration also helps to restore the natural moisture barrier of the eyes.
As a result, Calendula officinalis tea can provide relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes, promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with dry eyes.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote healthy tear production, reducing dry eye symptoms.
- Carotenoids: These pigments can help protect the eyes from blue light damage and reduce inflammation, promoting overall eye health and potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used to make teas for dry eyes because they contain anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are used to make teas for dry eyes because they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that promote eye health.
- Seeds: The seeds of Calendula officinalis are used to make teas for dry eyes because they contain essential fatty acids and vitamins that help nourish and moisturize the eyes.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 calendula flowers in the morning after the dew has dried to ensure optimal quality and freshness.
- Rinse the flowers gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the petals.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer using a dehydrator at 95-105 degrees fahrenheit for 6-8 hours.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the solids from the liquid and discard the solids.
4. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with dry eyes because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The apigenin and luteolin present in chamomile tea can help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles around the eyes, which can help to alleviate dryness and irritation. Additionally, chamomile tea has been shown to promote tear production, helping to keep the eyes moist and comfortable.
This natural remedy can provide relief for individuals suffering from dry, irritated eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with dry eyes.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
- Luteolin: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, luteolin helps to soothe and protect the ocular surface, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the eyes and reduce discomfort caused by dryness and irritation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of chamazulene and apigenin, which are known to soothe and calm dry, irritated eyes.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla are also used to make teas and are valued for their oil content, which is said to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for dry eyes.
- Harvest 20 to 30 fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Measure 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers per 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active ingredients.
- Strain the tea and serve warm or at room temperature immediately after preparation.
5. Hyssopus officinalis
Hyssopus officinalis, also known as hyssop, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to soothe and calm the eyes.
The herbal tea is rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production. Additionally, hyssop contains compounds that have been shown to have a positive effect on the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oil that helps to lubricate the eyes.
This makes hyssop tea a potential natural remedy for dry eye syndrome.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hyssopus officinalis teas that help with dry eyes.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps with dry eyes by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes that can contribute to dryness and irritation.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with dry eyes, promoting a healthy environment for tear production and eye comfort.
- Bornyl acetate: This monoterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting tear production and reducing dryness and irritation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of hyssop used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: Hyssopus officinalis leaves are used to make teas for dry eyes because they contain compounds like camphor and borneol, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Flowers: Hyssopus officinalis flowers are used to make teas for dry eyes because they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce dryness and irritation.
- Stems: Hyssopus officinalis stems are used to make teas for dry eyes because they contain volatile oils that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and protect the eyes.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hyssop for dry eyes.
- Gather dried hyssopus officinalis flowers in quantities of 1 teaspoon per 8 ounces of boiling water for a standard infusion.
- Heat water to a boil in a teapot or kettle then remove from heat source immediately.
- Steep the dried flowers in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.
- Serve the tea hot or chilled with or without added sweetener or other ingredients as desired.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The root of the plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra, contains compounds that soothe and calm the eyes, reducing irritation and redness. The tea also contains flavonoids and glycosides, which help to protect and lubricate the eyes, promoting healthy tear production and reducing dryness.
Regular consumption of Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may provide relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes, promoting overall eye health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with dry eyes.
- Licorice saponins: These saponins help to reduce inflammation and soothe the eyes, providing relief from dryness and irritation.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit antioxidant properties, protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects, helping to maintain the integrity of the ocular surface and reduce symptoms of dry eyes.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make teas due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas due to their ability to retain the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the plant, which can help reduce dryness and irritation in the eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used to make teas due to their ability to provide sustained release of glycyrrhizin, which can help maintain the health of the eyes and surrounding tissues.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry eyes.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for every 8 ounces of water.
- Steep the dried roots in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
- Add honey or other sweetener to taste if desired for a sweeter flavor.
- Serve the tea hot or iced and enjoy the soothing and relaxing properties of glycyrrhiza glabra.
7. Cinchona pubescens
Cinchona pubescens, also known as Jesuit's bark, teas helps with dry eyes because of its rich content of quinine, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
Quinine is believed to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the eyes, which can help alleviate dryness and irritation. Additionally, Cinchona pubescens teas may help to relax the muscles surrounding the eyes, reducing tension and promoting a healthy tear film.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe dry, irritated eyes and promote overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona pubescens teas that help with dry eyes.
- Quinine alkaloid: Quinine is an anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce inflammation in the eyes, which may contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Quinic acid: Quinic acid is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
- Cinchonine: Cinchonine has vasoconstrictive properties, which can help reduce blood flow to the eyes and alleviate dryness caused by excessive tear production or inflammation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in quinine and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
- Buds: The buds are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm dry, irritated eyes.
- Stems: The stems of Cinchona pubescens contain alkaloids that may help reduce swelling and promote eye health.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for dry eyes.
- Harvest cinchona pubescens bark by cutting branches of the tree at the base during the dry season.
- Dry the harvested bark by spreading it thinly on a surface for several days to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the dried bark into small pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
- Steep one teaspoon of chopped bark in one cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to release its medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving it in small quantities to avoid adverse effects.
8. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, teas helps with dry eyes because it has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the eyes.
The tea is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the eyes from damage and promote healing. Plantain also contains mucilages, which help to lubricate the eyes and relieve dryness. Additionally, the tea has been traditionally used to treat conjunctivitis and other eye irritations, making it a natural remedy for dry, irritated eyes.
It offers long-lasting relief from dry eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major teas that help with dry eyes.
- Apolipoprotein a-1: This protein helps to reduce inflammation and improve the health of the tear glands, which can help alleviate dry eyes symptoms.
- Phenolic compounds: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by dry air and reduce inflammation associated with dry eyes.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help calm and soothe the eyes, reducing irritation and dryness associated with dry eyes.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: Plantago major leaves are used to make teas for dry eyes due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisten the eyes.
- Stems: The stems of Plantago major are used to make teas for dry eyes because they contain astringent properties, which can help to reduce puffiness and inflammation.
- Buds: Plantago major buds are used to make teas for dry eyes due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm and soothe irritated eyes.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh or dried plantago major leaves and flowers for tea preparation.
- Clean the harvested plantago major leaves and flowers thoroughly under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Dry the cleaned plantago major leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried plantago major leaves and flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water for tea infusion.
- Steep the plantago major tea mixture for 5-10 minutes before straining and serving.
9. Avena sativa
Avena sativa, also known as oats, teas helps with dry eyes because of its soothing and nourishing properties.
The herb contains saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that calm and moisturize the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation. By relaxing the muscles around the eyes and improving blood flow, Avena sativa tea can help to hydrate the eyes and alleviate symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome, such as redness, itchiness, and blurred vision.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for people suffering from dry eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa teas that help with dry eyes.
- Avenasterol: Helps with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the cornea, thereby alleviating symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
- Saponins: Relieves dry eyes by reducing inflammation and promoting tear production, which helps to maintain the health of the ocular surface.
- Fatty acids: Soothes and moisturizes the eyes, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by dry eye syndrome.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Seeds: The seeds of Avena sativa are commonly used to make teas due to their high content of fatty acids and antioxidants that help soothe and moisturize the eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Avena sativa are another popular choice for tea due to their rich source of flavonoids and phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce eye irritation and dryness.
- Flowers: The flowers of Avena sativa are used to make teas that are beneficial for dry eyes due to their high content of flavonoids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that promote eye health and reduce dryness.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for dry eyes.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried avena sativa root and stems from a trusted source.
- Rinse the dried avena sativa root and stems in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the dried avena sativa root and stems in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the herbal tea mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a cup or teapot.
- Serve the warm avena sativa tea immediately and enjoy within 30 minutes to 1 hour.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The leaves of the dandelion plant contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known to reduce inflammation and protect the eyes from oxidative stress. The antioxidants present in dandelion tea help to soothe and moisturize the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
Additionally, dandelion tea's diuretic properties can also help to reduce water retention in the body, which can contribute to dry eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with dry eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and protect the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, luteolin may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, alleviating dry eye symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for dry eyes.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe dry, irritated eyes.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, they can help reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
- Buds: Containing bioactive compounds, they can help alleviate dry eye symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dry eyes.
- Gather 1/2 cup of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers or 1 tablespoon of dried herbs.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale herbs in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or cup.
- Discard the solids and add honey or lemon to taste if desired sweetness or flavor.
- Serve the taraxacum officinale tea immediately and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for dry eyes?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with dry eyes is a blend of Calendula, Chamomile, and Eyebright.
Calendula soothes and calms the eyes, while Chamomile reduces inflammation and promotes relaxation. Eyebright, rich in antioxidants, helps to protect and nourish the eyes. Drinking a warm infusion of these herbs can provide relief from dry, irritated eyes and promote overall eye health.
This tea blend can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a convenient and natural remedy for dry eyes.