By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Eye Infection
Herbal decoctions for eye infection are a natural and effective way to treat and manage eye infections.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to release their active ingredients that can help to reduce inflammation, combat bacteria and viruses, and promote healing. Examples of herbal decoctions that have been used to treat eye infections include chamomile, calendula, and goldenseal.
By using these decoctions, people with eye infections can find relief from symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and discharge, improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for eye infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Euphrasia officinalis
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Symphytum officinale
- 7. Rosa centifolia
- 8. Hydrastis canadensis
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for eye infection?
- What ailments similar to eye infection are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with eye infection because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and polyphenols, effectively combat bacterial and viral agents responsible for conjunctivitis, redness, and irritation.
Additionally, the soothing and calming effects of the decoction help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the affected area, promoting quick healing and relief from symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, help with eye infection by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial activity, which can aid in reducing the severity and duration of eye infections.
- Alkaloids: Cichoric acid and other cichorium alkaloids found in Echinacea angustifolia help with eye infection by demonstrating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with eye infections.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Echinacea angustifolia, helps with eye infection by exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and the progression of eye infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Roots: They are most commonly used due to their high concentration of echinacoside and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are also utilized for their ability to stimulate the immune system and contain compounds that help combat bacterial and viral infections.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to add a soothing effect and contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antimicrobial properties, making them effective in treating eye infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for eye infection.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall after the plant has died back.
- Wash the harvested roots with water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry the cleaned roots in a warm place with good airflow for 1-2 weeks.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried root in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids to make the decoction ready for use.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with eye infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacterial and viral infections that cause redness, irritation, and discharge.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and ease discomfort, while its antioxidant properties protect the eyes from further damage.
Additionally, pot marigold's soothing effects calm irritated eyes and promote healing, making it a natural and effective remedy for eye infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and redness associated with eye infections.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by eye infections.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth and spread of pathogens that cause eye infections, such as bacterial and fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Flowers: Their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that help reduce swelling and fight infections in the eyes.
- Seeds: The seeds have been traditionally used to treat eye infections due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye infection.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh calendula officinalis flowers or 1 tablespoon of dried flowers.
- Rinse the calendula flowers in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine the calendula flowers with 1 quart of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with eye infection because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.
The aloe vera gel contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the eyes.
When applied topically as an eyewash or added to eye drops, herbal aloe decoctions help to reduce redness, discharge, and irritation, while also accelerating the recovery process and preventing complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, such as aloe-emodin and aloin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and heal eye infections.
- Polysaccharides: These polysaccharides have been shown to possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair in the eyes.
- Vitamins: The presence of vitamins A, C, and E in Aloe vera decoctions helps protect the eyes from oxidative damage, promotes the healing of damaged tissues, and supports the regeneration of epithelial cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Leaves: They are primarily used due to their high concentration of aloe vera gel, which contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe eye infections.
- Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are used to create decoctions that promote the healing of eye infections by reducing inflammation and fighting off bacterial infections.
- Stems: Aloe vera stems contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, making them an effective part of decoctions for treating eye infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eye infection.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves from mature plants and cut them into 2-inch pieces weighing about 30 grams.
- Wash the aloe vera pieces thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and bacteria.
- Combine the aloe vera pieces with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the mixture has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright decoctions helps with eye infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbal concoction contains a high concentration of antioxidants, flavonoids, and glycosides that work together to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. When applied topically, eyebright decoctions can help clear up pus-filled pimples and crusting on the eyelids, while also soothing redness, itchiness, and discharge associated with eye infections.
Its natural antibacterial properties also aid in preventing further infection and promoting a speedy recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with eye infections by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing swelling and fighting off pathogens that cause eye infections.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions help with eye infections by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes.
- Alkaloids: Euphrasia alkaloids in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions help with eye infections by exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in fighting off pathogens and reducing inflammation in the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Leaves: Leaves of Euphrasia officinalis are commonly used to make decoctions for eye infections due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Roots: Roots of the plant contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial and fungal infections in the eyes.
- Flowers: Flowers of Euphrasia officinalis are used to make decoctions that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help treat eye infections and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for eye infection.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh or 10-15 grams of dried euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning.
- Rinse the collected plant material in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 30 seconds.
- Combine the cleaned euphrasia officinalis with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the decoction for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a cup and discard the solids.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with eye infection because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and discomfort in the eyes.
The decoction's antimicrobial compounds also help combat bacterial, viral, or fungal infections by destroying pathogens and preventing their growth. Additionally, dandelion's antioxidants soothe irritated tissues, promoting healing and reducing redness.
As a natural remedy, dandelion decoctions offer a gentle yet effective way to alleviate eye infection symptoms, supporting the body's natural recovery process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness associated with eye infections.
- Inulin: This type of polysaccharide has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial or fungal infections in the eyes.
- Saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the eyes from infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties beneficial for treating eye infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to reduce swelling and inflammation, which helps in soothing eye infections and promoting healing.
- Buds: The buds are used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in treating eye infections and preventing further complications.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for eye infection.
- Harvest 30 to 60 grams of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots for decoction preparation.
- Clean the plant material by rinsing it with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine the plant material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or container.
6. Symphytum officinale
Comfrey decoctions helps with eye infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's rich concentration of allantoin, a compound that promotes tissue repair and regeneration, soothes inflamed eyes and accelerates the healing process. Additionally, comfrey contains flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit antibacterial activity against common eye pathogens, helping to clear up infections and reduce discomfort.
By applying cooled comfrey decoction as an eyewash or compress, individuals can experience relief from redness, itchiness, and discharge associated with eye infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Alkaloids: They have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or viral infections in the eyes.
- Saponins: These compounds have antioxidant and soothing effects, which can help to calm down irritated eyes and reduce oxidative stress caused by eye infections.
- Phenolic acids: They exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to inhibit the growth of pathogens and reduce swelling in the eyes, promoting healing and recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which can help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing swelling and infection in the eyes.
- Stems: They are used due to their high concentration of allantoin, a compound that can help promote healing and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for eye infection.
- Gather 25 grams of dried roots of symphytum officinale from a trusted supplier.
- Combine the dried roots with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the decoction for an additional 20 to 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the liquid remedy.
7. Rosa centifolia
Damask rose decoctions helps with eye infection because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, effectively combat bacterial and viral infections that cause conjunctivitis and other eye issues.
Additionally, the soothing and calming nature of damask rose helps reduce redness, swelling, and discharge associated with eye infections, promoting faster healing and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa centifolia decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial infections in the eyes.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to prevent the growth of microorganisms and reduce inflammation in the eyes, promoting healing and recovery.
- Geraniol: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth of microorganisms that can cause eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and heal eye infections.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in the eyes.
- Buds: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for eye infection.
- Harvest 1 part rosa centifolia flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the flowers in a cool dark place for 2-3 days to remove moisture.
- Use a coffee grinder to grind 10 grams of dried rosa centifolia flowers into a fine powder.
- Combine the ground flowers with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes and strain it through a cheesecloth into a separate container.
8. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal decoctions helps with eye infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause conjunctivitis.
The alkaloids berberine and hydrastine in goldenseal have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, common culprits behind eye infections.
Additionally, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and discharge associated with eye infections, promoting a speedy recovery and alleviating discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid found in Hydrastis canadensis, has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the eyes, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Hydrastine: Hydrastine, an alkaloid found in Hydrastis canadensis, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the eyes, making it easier to treat eye infections.
- Vasculin: Vasculin, a phenolic compound found in Hydrastis canadensis, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the eyes from infection and promote tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of berberine, an alkaloid with antimicrobial properties that helps combat eye infections.
- Leaves: They are another commonly used part for their berberine content, which contributes to their ability to treat eye infections.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of Hydrastis canadensis also contain berberine and are used to make decoctions that can help alleviate eye infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for eye infection.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh or dried roots of the perennial herb and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Store the decoction in a refrigerator and consume within 24 hours after preparation.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with eye infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The antioxidants present in chamomile have been shown to reduce swelling and redness associated with conjunctivitis, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing irritated eyes. Additionally, chamomile's antibacterial properties help combat bacterial infections, promoting healing and reducing the risk of complications.
This natural decoction can provide gentle relief from eye irritation, allowing the body to recover from infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with eye infection by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or fungal infections in the eyes.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the eyes from infection and inflammation.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, making it easier for the body to fight off eye infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Flowers: They are rich in apigenin and chamazulene, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and heal eye infections.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off eye infections.
- Seeds: They contain triterpenoid saponins that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat eye infections and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eye infection.
- Gather 10 to 30 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for the decoction.
- Boil 300 milliliters of water in a pot for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add the dried flowers to the boiling water and steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the decoction to cool down to room temperature before consumption.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with eye infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The compounds present in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce redness, swelling, and discharge associated with conjunctivitis and other eye infections.
Additionally, the decoction's antiviral and antibacterial properties help combat bacterial and viral pathogens responsible for causing eye infections, promoting a swift recovery and reducing the risk of complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with eye infection.
- Licorice root flavonoids: These compounds help with eye infection by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to combat bacterial and fungal infections causing eye infections.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the eyes from further damage caused by infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for eye infection.
- Roots: Roots: The part of Glycyrrhiza glabra used for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat eye infections.
- Flowers: Flowers: The part used for its antibacterial properties to help combat eye infection-causing bacteria.
- Leaves: Leaves: The part used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects to reduce eye inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for eye infection.
- Harvest 1-2 kg of dried roots and rinse them thoroughly with cold water to remove any debris.
- Chop 10-15 grams of the rinsed roots into small pieces and place them in a large pot.
- Add 2 liters of water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for eye infection?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with eye infection is a blend of Echinacea, Aloe vera, and Calendula.
Echinacea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and ease pain. Aloe vera's soothing and moisturizing effects can calm irritated eyes, while Calendula's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial or fungal infections. Mixing equal parts of each decoction and applying it as an eye wash can provide relief from eye infection symptoms.
Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
What ailments similar to eye infection are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to eye infection that are treated with herbal decoctions are various skin and mucous membrane infections such as conjunctivitis, pink eye, and oral thrush.
Decoctions made from herbs like goldenseal, calendula, and chamomile have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal these conditions.
Other ailments treated with herbal decoctions include urinary tract infections, ear infections, and gum disease.