By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Eye Irritation
Herbal tinctures for eye irritation are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
These natural remedies help alleviate discomfort caused by dryness, itchiness, and redness, often associated with computer use, allergies, or environmental factors. Examples of herbal tinctures that provide relief include peppermint, chamomile, and calendula, which can be applied topically to the eye area using a cotton ball or swab.
This gentle approach improves lives by providing instant relief from itchy, irritated eyes, allowing individuals to focus on daily tasks without distraction or discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for eye irritation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Euphrasia officinalis
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Hydrastis canadensis
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Trifolium pratense
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eye irritation?
- What ailments similar to eye irritation are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
When applied topically, aloe vera's polysaccharides and glycoproteins calm irritated eyes by reducing redness, swelling, and itchiness. The tincture's antioxidants also help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate eye inflammation.
By providing a protective barrier on the surface of the eye, aloe tinctures create an optimal environment for healing, allowing eyes to recover quickly from irritants, allergens, or dryness-induced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Chromones: Chromones, specifically aloin and aloe-emodin, have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce redness and swelling associated with eye irritation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by eye irritation.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly acemannan, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes affected by irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Leaves: Rich in aloe-emodin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce eye irritation and discomfort.
- Buds: Contain aloin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect the eyes from irritation and infection.
- Stems: Contain aloe vera gel, a soothing and moisturizing compound that helps to calm and protect the eyes from irritation and dryness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eye irritation.
- Harvest 50-100 mature aloe vera leaves with thick green skin for tincture making.
- Cut the leaves into small pieces and soak them in 80 proof vodka for 4 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar 3 times a day.
- Discard the solids and store the clear liquid in a dark glass bottle in the refrigerator.
- Use the tincture within 2 years and take 20-30 drops in water 2-3 times a day.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains a powerful compound called luteolin, which has been shown to reduce swelling and discomfort in the eyes. When applied topically as an eyewash or added to a compress, pot marigold tincture can provide fast relief from irritated and itchy eyes.
Its soothing and calming effects also help to reduce redness and discharge, making it an effective natural remedy for treating eye irritations caused by allergies, dryness, and environmental factors.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds found in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with eye irritation.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help alleviate eye irritation and promote tissue repair.
- Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, which help to soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and saponins that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce eye irritation.
- Stems: They contain a combination of flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect and soothe the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye irritation.
- Harvest 20-30 percent flower heads of calendula officinalis when they are in full bloom and dry.
- Chop 1 part of the dried calendula officinalis flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the tincture to macerate.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Label the jar and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture contains compounds like kaempferol and quercetin, which have been shown to reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues in the eyes. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has antimicrobial properties that can help combat infections that may be contributing to eye irritation.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide natural relief from itchy, red, and watery eyes, helping to promote healthy vision and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness associated with eye irritation.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate eye irritation and promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Roots: Rich in compounds like alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce eye inflammation.
- Barks: Contain phenolic compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat infections and reduce eye irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for eye irritation.
- Harvest 1 part of dried echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Fill a glass jar 2/3 full with the chopped roots then add 2/3 cup of 80 proof vodka as solvent.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
4. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb Euphrasia officinalis, also known as eyebright, has been traditionally used to calm red, itchy, and inflamed eyes caused by allergies, dryness, and irritants. When taken in the form of a tincture, eyebright's bioactive compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, traveling directly to the eyes to reduce swelling and discomfort.
This natural remedy provides relief from eye irritation without masking symptoms with artificial chemicals, promoting healthy and comfortable vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Euphrasia officinalis, such as euphrasine, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and protect irritated eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, are found in Euphrasia officinalis and possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eye inflammation and promote healing.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, in Euphrasia officinalis exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate eye irritation and promote eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Leaves: Euphrasia officinalis leaves contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe eye irritation.
- Flowers: The flowers of Euphrasia officinalis are rich in bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate eye irritation.
- Stems: The stems of Euphrasia officinalis contain compounds that have been used to treat various eye conditions, including conjunctivitis and dry eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for eye irritation.
- Harvest approximately 1 part of fresh or dried euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves.
- Combine the harvested euphrasia officinalis with 2 parts of 80 vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Label and store the euphrasia officinalis tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
5. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated eyes.
The antioxidants present in ginger also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause redness, itchiness, and burning sensations. Additionally, ginger's natural antibacterial and antiviral properties help to combat infections and promote healing, providing relief from eye irritations caused by allergies, dryness, or environmental factors.
As a result, herbal ginger tinctures offer a natural and effective remedy for promoting eye comfort and health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Gingerol: Gingerol, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, providing relief from eye irritation.
- Shogaol: Shogaol, a pungent compound, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating eye irritation symptoms.
- Zingiberone: Zingiberone, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing discomfort and pain associated with eye irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Rhyzomes: These are the underground stems that store the plant's energy and contain the highest concentration of active compounds, such as gingerols, which provide anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale also contain gingerols and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe eye irritation.
- Buds: The buds of the plant, which are the young, unopened flowers, may be used to create a tincture that helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for eye irritation.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Wash the harvested zingiber officinale thoroughly with filtered water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Chop the cleaned zingiber officinale into small pieces and combine with 80-90 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the chopped zingiber officinale in the vodka mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from the solids.
6. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its unique combination of compounds, particularly berberine, which has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied topically as an herbal remedy, goldenseal tincture can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness, itchiness, and discharge caused by allergies, infections, or dryness.
Its ability to combat bacterial and fungal overgrowth also makes it effective in treating conjunctivitis and other eye infections, providing fast relief and promoting healthy vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Berberine: This alkaloid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness associated with eye irritation.
- Vasaka alkaloids: Also known as ipecac alkaloids, these compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help soothe and protect the eyes from infection and irritation.
- Hydrastine: This isoquinoline alkaloid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the growth of microorganisms and alleviate eye irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Roots: Rich in berberine and hydrastine, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to soothe eye irritation.
- Leaves: Contain berberine and other alkaloids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help alleviate eye irritation.
- Rhyzomes: Also rich in berberine and hydrastine, making them effective in treating eye irritation due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for eye irritation.
- Gather 1 part of dried root of hydrastis canadensis and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried root and vodka in the jar and seal it tightly to ensure no air can enter.
- Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it every 2 days to facilitate extraction.
- After the maceration period filter the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid and label it for future reference.
7. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with eye irritation because its soothing properties help to reduce inflammation and itchiness in the eyes.
The herb's mucilages, which are thick, gel-like substances, provide a protective barrier that calms and cools the eyes, reducing redness and discomfort. Additionally, marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory compounds that help to alleviate dryness and irritation caused by environmental factors, allergies, or other underlying conditions.
This natural remedy provides quick relief for itchy, irritated eyes, allowing for comfortable vision and healthy eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect the eyes by forming a physical barrier on the surface of the eye, reducing inflammation and irritation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, specifically quercetin and kaempferol, possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and alleviate eye irritation caused by allergic reactions.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the eyes, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Roots: Althaea officinalis roots contain mucilages, which help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes.
- Buds: Althaea officinalis buds contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for eye irritation.
- Gather 1 part of dried althaea officinalis root and 2 parts of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Combine the root and ethanol mixture and let it steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container to remove the solids.
- Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid to store the tincture.
- Label the bottle with the date and contents and store it in a cool dark place to preserve the tincture.
8. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied topically to the affected area, peppermint oil has been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with irritated eyes. Its cooling effect also helps to soothe itchy or burning sensations, providing instant relief from discomfort.
Additionally, peppermint's antioxidant properties may help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate eye irritation, promoting healthy vision and overall eye well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Menthone: This monoterpene helps with eye irritation by reducing inflammation and acting as an anxiolytic, providing relief from eye strain and discomfort.
- Limonene: As a bioactive monoterpene, limonene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness and swelling associated with eye irritation.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help to soothe and calm eye irritation, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals that exacerbate the condition.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Stems: Stems are used for their robust menthol content, which aids in reducing inflammation and providing quick relief from eye irritation.
- (additional) roots: Roots contain a higher concentration of menthol and menthone than leaves, making them a popular choice for tincture production to combat eye irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for eye irritation.
- Gather 1 part of dried mentha x piperita leaves and flowers and combine with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place away from children and pets.
- Label the bottle with the date prepared and the herbal name and use the tincture within 2 years.
9. Trifolium pratense
Red clover tinctures helps with eye irritation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tannins present in red clover have a soothing effect on the eyes, reducing redness and swelling caused by allergies, dryness, or irritants.
Additionally, the flavonoids and isoflavones in red clover tinctures help to calm irritated tissues and promote healthy tear production, providing natural relief from itching, burning, and stinging sensations associated with eye irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, particularly genistein and formononetin, in Trifolium pratense tinctures help reduce eye inflammation and irritation due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Saponins: Saponins in red clover tinctures have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, in Trifolium pratense tinctures have antioxidant properties that can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage, reducing the severity of eye irritation and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Leaves: They are used for their astringent properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with eye irritation.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect and soothe the eyes from irritation and damage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for eye irritation.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh trifolium pratense flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated and before heat of day.
- Dry the harvested flowers at 35 degrees celsius for 1-2 hours to reduce moisture content to 10 percent.
- Combine 1 part of dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 percent vodka in a glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow extraction of bioactive compounds.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tincture.
10. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with eye irritation because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe red, itchy, and irritated eyes.
The antioxidants in sage have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cornea, alleviating discomfort and promoting healthy vision. Additionally, sage's antiviral properties help combat viral infections that can cause conjunctivitis and other eye issues, allowing for faster recovery and improved overall ocular health.
By incorporating herbal sage tinctures into your natural wellness routine, you can experience relief from irritating eye conditions and maintain clear, bright vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with eye irritation.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe eye irritation.
- Carvacrol: This phenolic monoterpenic compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat eye infections and reduce redness.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and protect the eyes from oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for eye irritation.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of salvianolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties beneficial for soothing eye irritation.
- Flowers: The flowers are also used, as they contain a higher concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain a lower amount of active compounds compared to leaves and flowers but can still provide some benefits when used in tinctures for eye irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for eye irritation.
- Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
- Combine 250 grams of the dried herb with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every few days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Filter the tincture through a 0.2-micron filter and transfer it to dark glass bottles for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eye irritation?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with eye irritation is a blend of Eyebright, Nettle leaf, and Calendula.
Eyebright tincture helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the eyes, while Nettle leaf tincture calms and cools the eyes, providing relief from itching and redness. Calendula tincture adds its anti-inflammatory properties to promote healing and regeneration of the delicate eye tissues.
This combination can be taken internally or applied topically as a compress to alleviate eye irritation.
What ailments similar to eye irritation are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to eye irritation that are treated with herbal tinctures are earaches, toothaches, and throat irritations.
Herbal tinctures like peppermint, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help relieve pain and discomfort in these areas.
Additionally, herbal tinctures like sage and thyme can also be used to treat sore throats and hoarseness, while eucalyptus and tea tree oil are often used to clear congestion and sinus pressure.