10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Dry Eyes

Herbal tinctures for dry eyes are concentrated liquid extracts made from various plant-based ingredients, specifically designed to soothe and nourish the eyes.

These tinctures help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by providing essential oils, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that moisturize and protect the ocular surface. Examples include Eyebright, which reduces redness and inflammation, and Marshmallow Root, which lubricates and comforts the eyes.

By using herbal tinctures, individuals with dry eyes can enjoy improved vision, reduced discomfort, and enhanced daily living activities such as reading, computer use, and even driving at night.

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

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with dry eyes because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The extract from the plant's flowers, known as Echinacea pallida, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, including in the eyes. This anti-inflammatory effect can help alleviate dry eye symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and burning sensations.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in Kansas coneflower tinctures can help protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, further reducing discomfort and promoting overall ocular health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and promote the production of tears, thereby alleviating dry eyes.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe and calm the eyes, reducing irritation and dryness.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants may help to 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 kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for dry eyes.

• Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are used to make tinctures for dry eyes due to their high content of alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and protect the eyes.
• Flowers: Echinacea angustifolia flowers are used to make tinctures for dry eyes due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce eye inflammation and promote healing.
• Barks: Echinacea angustifolia barks are used to make tinctures for dry eyes due to their high content of phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce eye inflammation and promote healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried roots of echinacea angustifolia in autumn when the plant is in full maturity.
2. Chop 1 part of the roots into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of vodka or glycerin.
3. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.

2. Ginkgo biloba

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

The tannins and flavonoids in maidenhair tree work to reduce redness, itchiness, and burning sensations associated with dry eye syndrome.

Additionally, the tincture's ability to improve ocular blood flow helps to nourish and hydrate the eyes, reducing discomfort and promoting overall eye health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds, particularly quercetin, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, potentially alleviating dry eye symptoms.
• Bilobalide: As a ginkgolide, bilobalide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes, contributing to relief from dry eye conditions.
• Ginkgolides: These terpenoid lactones possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, which may contribute to the alleviation of dry eye symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their rich content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which help to improve blood flow to the eyes and reduce symptoms of dry eyes.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are used to create tinctures due to their high content of bilobalide, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to alleviate dry, itchy eyes.
• Fruits: Ginkgo fruits are used to make tinctures because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the eyes, making them beneficial for dry eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 pounds of ginkgo biloba leaves and stems from mature trees in late summer or early fall.
2. Dry the ginkgo biloba material in a warm oven at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours.
3. Crush 1 pound of dried ginkgo biloba material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine 1 pound of ginkgo biloba powder with 5 cups of 80-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.

3. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey tinctures helps with dry eyes because it contains allantoin, a potent anti-inflammatory agent that soothes and calms irritated eye tissues.

The tincture's high concentration of allantoin reduces redness and swelling, while its antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress and damage caused by prolonged screen use or environmental factors.

As a result, comfrey tinctures provide fast and effective relief from dry, itchy, and tired eyes, promoting healthy vision and overall ocular well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkaloids: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and protect the eyes from dryness and irritation.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, alleviating dryness and discomfort.
• Sterols: These sterols have emollient and anti-inflammatory properties that help moisturize and protect the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation associated with dry eye syndrome.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisturize dry, irritated eyes.
• Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and swelling associated with dry eyes.
• Stems: They are used due to their ability to stimulate the production of mucous, which can help to lubricate and protect dry, irritated eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves of symphytum officinale at dawn or early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by rinsing them gently with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine 250 grams of the cleaned symphytum officinale leaves with 500 milliliters of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with dry eyes because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The natural gel of aloe vera has been used for centuries to treat various eye issues, including dryness and itchiness. When applied as a tincture, the aloe's moisturizing and regenerative effects penetrate deep into the eye, providing long-lasting relief from discomfort and dryness.

Additionally, aloe's antimicrobial properties help prevent infections that can exacerbate dry eyes, promoting overall ocular health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: Help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the ocular surface, which can alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Glycoproteins: Have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce irritation and soothe the dry, itchy eyes, providing relief from dry eye discomfort.
• Fatty acids: Help to repair and maintain the integrity of the tear film, promoting healthy tears and reducing dryness and irritation in the eyes.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The gel from aloe vera leaves is commonly used to make tinctures for dry eyes because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.
• Leaves (aloe vera gel extract): It contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
• Leaves (aloe vera inner gel): The inner gel is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help protect and nourish the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh aloe vera leaves in the early morning when they are at their highest potency.
2. Wash the aloe vera leaves in cold running water to remove dirt and impurities.
3. Dry the aloe vera leaves in a single layer at 35 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
4. Combine 200 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol with the dried aloe vera leaves in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks then strain and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

5. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal tinctures helps with dry eyes because it contains berberine, a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When used topically, goldenseal tincture reduces inflammation and irritation in the eyes, alleviating symptoms of dry eye syndrome such as redness, itchiness, and burning sensations. Its antimicrobial properties also help to combat bacterial overgrowth that can contribute to dry eye conditions.

By soothing and healing the eyes, goldenseal tinctures provide relief from discomfort and promote overall eye health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes associated with dry eye syndrome.
• Alkaloids: Berberine has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which may help prevent infections and promote healing in the eyes, while hydrastine may help reduce inflammation and promote mucin production to soothe dry eyes.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin is a potent antioxidant that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, promoting healthy eye function and reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Hydrastis canadensis contain berberine, a compound that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
• Leaves: The leaves are rich in hydrastine, a compound that can help to reduce dryness and irritation in the eyes.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes contain berberine and hydrastine, which can help to soothe and protect the eyes from dryness and irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of hydrastis canadensis roots in the fall or spring when the plant is actively growing.
2. Dry the roots in a warm place or using a dehydrator at 95-105 degrees fahrenheit for 8-12 hours.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

6. Euphrasia officinalis

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

The herbal extract contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that work to reduce redness and puffiness, providing instant relief from dry, itchy eyes. Additionally, eyebright's natural astringent properties help to reduce excess tear production, allowing the eyes to function properly and maintaining healthy tear flow.

This results in a reduction of symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome, such as blurred vision and burning sensations.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with dry eyes by stimulating tear production and improving the quality of tears, thereby alleviating dryness and irritation.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Euphrasia officinalis, particularly rutin and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the eyes, which can be a contributing factor to dry eyes.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as euphrasioside, have been shown to have mucilaginous properties, which help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the eyes, reducing dryness and discomfort.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Euphrasia officinalis are primarily used to make tinctures for dry eyes due to their high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Flowers: Euphrasia officinalis flowers are often used in tinctures for their tropane alkaloids, which are known to have a mydriatic effect, helping to relax the eye muscles and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Roots: Some herbal remedies use the roots of Euphrasia officinalis to make tinctures, which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and protect the eyes from dryness and irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves by pinching or cutting them from mature plants.
2. Clean the harvested material thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar for tincture preparation.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for infusion and extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.

7. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with dry eyes because it contains flavonoids and carotenoids that provide antioxidant properties, soothing and nourishing the ocular surface.

The anti-inflammatory compounds in pot marigold tincture also reduce redness and discomfort associated with dry eyes. Additionally, its emollient properties help to moisturize and protect the eyes, reducing irritation and promoting a healthy tear film.

As a result, using pot marigold tinctures can provide fast and effective relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds help reduce inflammation, which is a contributing factor to dry eyes. By decreasing inflammation, sesquiterpene lactones may alleviate some symptoms associated with dry eyes.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect the eyes from damage caused by oxidative stress, which can exacerbate dry eyes.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid found in Calendula, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe and protect the eyes from dryness and irritation.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: Rich in carotenoids and flavonoids, which help soothe and protect the eyes.
• Leaves: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing eye irritation.
• Stems: Rich in flavonoids and terpenes, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the calendula officinalis flowers in full bloom when the petals are fully open for maximum potency.
2. Clean the calendula flowers thoroughly with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris for quality.
3. Combine 1 part of the cleaned calendula flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from the solids.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated eye tissue.

The bitter compounds in dandelion extract also help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyelids and conjunctiva, allowing for improved tear drainage and reduced stinging sensation.

Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant properties help to protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy vision and overall eye health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with dry eyes by reducing inflammation and improving the overall health of the ocular tissues.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms by soothing and protecting the eyes.
• Chrysanthemin: This flavonoid glycoside has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, contributing to dry eye relief.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and moisturize dry eyes.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are known for their high content of flavonoids and saponins, which help reduce inflammation and improve eye health.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in a sufficient quantity for the tincture 2 cups of plant material is recommended.
2. Chop the taraxacum officinale plant material into smaller pieces to enhance extraction efficiency.
3. Combine chopped taraxacum officinale with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio for a 2 quart batch in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking every 2 to 3 days.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container discard solids.

9. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The herbal extract reduces redness and itchiness associated with dry eye syndrome, while also promoting healthy tear production. Additionally, St John's Wort's natural antibacterial and antiviral compounds help to combat underlying infections that can exacerbate the condition.

By using a high-quality tincture, individuals can experience relief from dry, itchy, and gritty eyes, leading to improved vision and overall eye health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: A terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can contribute to dry eyes.
• Flavonoids: A class of phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the eyes from dryness and irritation.
• Naphthodianthrones: A class of phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, and promote healing and regeneration of the ocular surface.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, particularly rutin, which can help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
• Flowers: They contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and protect dry eyes.
• Stems: They are a good source of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help reduce oxidative stress and promote healthy eye function.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried flowers of hypericum perforatum in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Clean and dry 1 part of the harvested flowers with a clean cloth to prevent contamination.
3. Chop 1 part of the dried flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
4. Steep 1 part of the chopped flowers in 5 parts of a solvent such as glycerin or ethanol at a ratio of 1:5 for 2 to 6 weeks in a clean glass jar.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with dry eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tincture's flavonoids and terpenes work to soothe and calm the eyelids, reducing redness and irritation caused by dry eye syndrome.

Additionally, chamomile's natural anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce swelling in the eyes, providing fast and effective relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help calm and moisturize the eyes to alleviate dryness.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote healthy tear production to combat dry eyes.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain apigenin and luteolin, flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they are rich in apigenin, a flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and soothe irritated eyes.
• Seeds: The seeds are used because they contain apigenin and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce dryness and irritation in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn when the dew is still present.
2. Chop the harvested flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
3. Mix 1 part of chopped matricaria chamomilla flowers with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass container.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with dry eyes is often a blend of Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica), Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis), and Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis).

Nettle Leaf helps to soothe and moisturize the eyes, while Eyebright reduces inflammation and calms irritation. Goldenseal adds antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections and promote healing.

Taking a few drops of this blend several times a day may provide relief from dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.

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

Ailments similar to dry eyes that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction.

Herbs like golden seal, calendula, and chamomile can help soothe irritated eyes, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Other herbs like peppermint, tea tree, and lavender can also provide relief from dryness, itching, and redness associated with these conditions.

Tinctures can be applied topically or taken orally to provide effective natural remedies for eye health issues.