Updated: Nov 30, 2024
7 Herbal Tinctures For Eye Irritation
Herbal tinctures can be a great way to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
These teas are made from plants that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. For example, Calendula officinalis, also known as marigold, has been used for centuries to treat skin and eye irritations. It contains compounds that can help to calm and protect the delicate skin around your eyes. Echinacea purpurea is another herb that can be used to make a soothing tincture for eye irritation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and swelling.
Some people also use it to boost their immune system, which can help to prevent eye infections. Melissa officinalis, or lemon balm, is a calming herb that can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be a major contributor to eye irritation. It has a soothing effect on the eyes and can help to reduce redness and puffiness. Using herbal tinctures for eye irritation can bring many benefits to your life. For one, they are a natural and non-invasive way to treat eye problems. They are also free from harsh chemicals and artificial additives, making them a great option for people who are sensitive to these substances.
Additionally, herbal tinctures can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as eye drops or ointments, to enhance their effectiveness.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for eye irritation and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis tinctures contains bioactive constituents like saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
These properties help to soothe and calm irritated eyes by reducing redness and swelling. The flavonoids present in Calendula officinalis tinctures, particularly quercetin, have antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the eye tissues. The antimicrobial properties of triterpenoids help to fight off bacterial and fungal infections that can cause eye irritation.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, Calendula officinalis tinctures can help to provide relief from eye irritation and promote healthy eye tissue.
- Gather 1 cup of Calendula officinalis flowers, a clean glass jar with a lid, and a dark glass bottle.
- Combine 1 cup of Calendula flowers with 2 cups of vodka in the glass jar. Stir well and seal the jar.
- Place the jar in a cool, dark place and let it sit for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into the dark glass bottle. Discard the solids.
- Label the bottle with the date and contents. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place. Use 5-7 drops in the affected eye 2-3 times a day as needed.
2. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea tinctures contains the bioactive constituents alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and phenolic acids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes. The alkylamides, specifically echinacoside and isobutylamides, have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation in the eyes. The caffeic acid derivatives, including caftaric and cichoric acids, have strong antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the eyes.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Echinacea purpurea tinctures can help to alleviate eye irritation and promote healing.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves.
- Combine the flowers and leaves in a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Pour 2 cups of 80% to 100% vodka or glycerin over the Echinacea mixture.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
3. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis tinctures contains rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid, and caffeic acid as its key bioactive constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eye irritation caused by inflammation or oxidative stress. Rosmarinic acid, in particular, has been shown to have potent antioxidant activity, neutralizing free radicals that can damage eye tissues. The anti-inflammatory properties of ursolic acid and caffeic acid help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes, providing relief from irritation.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Melissa officinalis tinctures can help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Gather 1 cup of Melissa officinalis flowers, 2 cups of vodka (at least 40% ABV), and a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Combine the Melissa officinalis flowers and vodka in the glass jar, making sure the flowers are completely covered.
- Close the jar and shake it well for 10-15 seconds, then let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in the fridge and use 5-10 drops in the affected eye 2-3 times a day as needed, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
4. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis tinctures contains the bioactive constituents aloin, aloe-emodin, and vitamins A and E. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
Aloin and aloe-emodin also have soothing and calming effects, which can help to calm irritated eyes. Vitamin A has antioxidant properties that can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, while vitamin E can help to improve blood flow to the eyes, reducing inflammation.
The combination of these properties makes Aloe barbadensis tinctures a potential remedy for eye irritation.
- Gather 1 cup of Aloe barbadensis gel, 1 cup of vodka or 80-proof alcohol, and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the Aloe gel and vodka in the glass jar, stirring well to mix.
- Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the Aloe tincture in a cool, dark place and use 5-7 drops in each eye as needed for eye irritation relief.
5. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale tinctures contains a mix of bioactive constituents like allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and phenylethanoid glycosides.
Allantoin, in particular, has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes. Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties that can protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and promote healing. Phenylethanoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce eye irritation and prevent infection.
When used as a tincture, these constituents can provide quick and effective relief from eye irritation.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Symphytum officinale leaves, 2 cups of 80-proof vodka, and a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Chop the Symphytum officinale leaves into small pieces and place them in the glass jar.
- Pour 2 cups of vodka over the chopped leaves and close the jar. Let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Label the jar with the date and the name of the tincture, and store it in a cool, dark place. Use 10-20 drops of the tincture in water or directly on the affected eye to help with irritation.
6. Euphrasia officinalis
Euphrasia officinalis tinctures contains a combination of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and iridoids, which are responsible for its therapeutic properties.
The flavonoids in Euphrasia officinalis have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce swelling and protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from oxidative damage. The phenolic acids have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections and reduce the severity of eye irritation. The iridoids have a soothing and calming effect on the mucous membranes, reducing redness and inflammation in the eyes.
By addressing the underlying causes of eye irritation, Euphrasia officinalis tinctures can provide relief and promote healing in the affected area.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Euphrasia officinalis flowers and 2 cups of vodka (at least 35% ABV).
- Combine the Euphrasia flowers and vodka in a clean glass jar, making sure the flowers are completely covered by the vodka.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and use 5-10 drops in the affected eye, 2-3 times a day, as needed.
7. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum tinctures contains the active constituents hyperforin and hypericin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes. Hyperforin also has antiviral and antifungal properties, which can help combat infections that cause eye irritation. Additionally, hypericin has antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, Hypericum perforatum tinctures can provide relief from eye irritation.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) flowers and leaves.
- Combine the flowers and leaves with 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and use 5-10 drops in water or oil for eye irritation relief as needed.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent eye irritation from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help prevent eye irritation in some cases.
Certain herbs like chamomile and calendula have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the eyes. These properties may reduce redness and discomfort caused by eye irritation.
Some herbal teas can also help to flush out irritants and reduce swelling in the eyes.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for eye irritation every day?
Consuming herbal teas for eye irritation every day can be safe, but it's essential to be cautious.
Some teas, like peppermint and chamomile, may provide relief, but others could cause more harm.
Look for teas that are specifically designed to soothe eye irritation and follow the recommended dosage.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in eye irritation?
Herbal teas can help soothe eye irritation.
Some people notice a difference in a few minutes, while others see improvement in 10 to 30 minutes. The effectiveness depends on the type of tea and the severity of the irritation.
As the tea is absorbed, you may feel your eyes calming down and becoming less irritated.