By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Eye Swelling
Herbal creams for eye swelling are topical creams or ointments that combine natural herbs with soothing ingredients to reduce puffiness and inflammation around the eyes.
They help alleviate eye swelling by calming and cooling the skin, reducing fluid retention, and promoting blood circulation. Examples include creams with ingredients like cucumber, peppermint, and aloe vera.
These creams can improve lives by providing relief from sinus pressure, allergies, and skin irritations, allowing individuals to look and feel more refreshed and confident.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for eye swelling, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Hamamelis virginiana
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Hydrastis canadensis
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Plantago major
- 8. Urtica dioica
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Lavandula angustifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for eye swelling?
- What ailments similar to eye swelling are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help reduce swelling and redness. When applied topically, aloe vera cream can calm the skin around the eyes, reducing the appearance of puffiness and swelling. Its hydrating properties also help to lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling cool and refreshed.
Regular use can lead to a more radiant and youthful appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with eye swelling.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloin and aloe-emodin, help reduce eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Polysaccharides: The polysaccharide component of Aloe vera, particularly acemannan, assists in reducing eye swelling by promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and modulating the immune response.
- Glucomannans: Glucomannans in Aloe vera help reduce eye swelling by acting as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reducing vascular permeability.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves contain gel, which is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and soothing properties, making it ideal for reducing eye swelling.
- Leaves (gel): The gel in aloe vera leaves is known for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce eye puffiness and swelling.
- Leaves (extracts): Aloe vera leaf extracts are often used in creams for their potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate eye swelling and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eye swelling.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried aloe vera gel powder into a fine consistency using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat.
- Combine the aloe vera powder with the beeswax mixture and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of distilled water to the mixture and stir well until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify for at least 30 minutes.
2. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with eye swelling because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
The extracts of Hamamelis virginiana contain tannins and flavonoids that reduce puffiness and redness by constricting blood vessels and soothing the skin. These natural compounds also possess antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and promote healing.
As a result, applying a Hamamelis virginiana cream to the affected area can provide quick relief from eye swelling and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with eye swelling.
- Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana help with eye swelling by reducing inflammation and constricting blood vessels, thereby decreasing the swelling and redness associated with eye puffiness.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid, a polyphenolic compound present in Hamamelis virginiana, helps with eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the swelling and promote the healing of the affected area.
- Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin, a complex tannin found in Hamamelis virginiana, helps with eye swelling by exerting astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the swelling and prevent further irritation of the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Roots: Rich in hamamelitannin, a compound that provides anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, making it effective in reducing eye swelling.
- Barks: Contains tannins that have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, helping to alleviate eye swelling and discomfort.
- Leaves: Rich in hamamelitannin and other bioactive compounds, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, useful in soothing eye swelling and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for eye swelling.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers in the spring or early summer when they are fully open.
- Combine the dried plant material with 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Infuse the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every few days to ensure even extraction.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
3. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, work to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area. When applied topically, Calendula cream can help to soothe and calm the skin around the eyes, reducing puffiness and discomfort. Its natural properties also help to combat free radicals, which can contribute to eye swelling.
Regular use may provide relief from eye swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with eye swelling.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress associated with swelling.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Calendula officinalis creams have been found to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antiedematous activities, which help in reducing swelling and edema around the eyes.
- Saponins: Saponins present in the Calendula officinalis plant exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, which aid in reducing the severity of eye swelling by suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds, making them ideal for reducing eye swelling.
- Leaves: They contain similar properties to flowers, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, which help to reduce eye swelling and promote healing.
- (optional, but sometimes used) stems: They can be used to produce extracts that contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in reducing eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye swelling.
- Harvest 2 cups of dried calendula officinalis flowers from a sunny location for optimal potency.
- Combine 1 cup of dried flowers with 2 cups of carrier oil in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream, typically derived from the root of the plant, contains compounds that reduce swelling and ease discomfort. When applied topically to the affected area, the cream's anti-inflammatory agents work to calm the skin and promote a reduction in puffiness.
This natural remedy is often used to alleviate eye swelling caused by allergies, sinus pressure, or other irritants, offering a soothing and effective solution.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with eye swelling.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
- Alkaloids: Echinacoside has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate eye swelling by reducing the production of inflammatory mediators.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Echinacea angustifolia, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to reduce eye swelling and protect against oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, particularly echinacoside and echinulin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their flavonoid and phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce swelling.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their flavonoids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that help alleviate eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for eye swelling.
- Harvest fresh echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder at low speed.
- Mix the echinacea powder with a carrier oil such as coconut oil in a 1:10 ratio by weight and add a preservative like vitamin e.
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until it thickens to a smooth and spreadable cream consistency in 10 minutes.
5. Hydrastis canadensis
Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, creams helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The berberine content in goldenseal has been shown to reduce inflammation and swelling, while its antimicrobial properties help to combat infections that can cause eye swelling. Additionally, goldenseal's ability to improve blood flow and reduce fluid buildup in the eyes helps to quickly alleviate swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for puffy eyes and eyelids.
This natural cream provides a gentle and soothing solution for eye care.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis creams that help with eye swelling.
- Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid compound, helps with eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and redness caused by inflammation.
- Hydrastine: Hydrastine, an alkaloid compound, helps with eye swelling by exerting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing the severity of eye swelling and promoting healing.
- Vasophore: Vasophore, a phenolic compound, helps with eye swelling by exhibiting vasoconstrictive properties, which helps in reducing blood flow to the affected area and subsequently reducing swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Roots: They contain the highest concentration of berberine, a key compound responsible for the plant's anti-inflammatory properties, which helps alleviate eye swelling.
- Leaves: They contain berberine and hydrastine, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them useful in reducing eye swelling.
- Rhyzomes: They contain a combination of berberine and hydrastine, which, when applied topically, help to reduce inflammation and swelling associated with eye conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for eye swelling.
- Harvest 10-20 roots of hydrastis canadensis, carefully selecting those with a rich golden color and no signs of decay.
- Clean the roots by gently scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush under cold running water for 5 minutes.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and then infuse them in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a bowl, discarding the solids and retaining 1 cup of liquid.
- Combine the retained liquid with 1/2 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of beeswax, then heat the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The key compound present in the plant, taraxasterol, has been found to reduce inflammation and swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Additionally, the cream's soothing and calming effects can help to reduce puffiness and discomfort associated with eye swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for treating puffy eyes, dark circles, and other eye-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with eye swelling.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help alleviate eye swelling and redness by reducing the activity of inflammatory cells.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce eye swelling by inhibiting the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for eye swelling due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for eye swelling due to their ability to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for eye swelling due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for eye swelling.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh leaves and flowers of taraxacum officinale on a sunny morning in spring.
- Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried taraxacum officinale in 2 cups of boiling water for 15 minutes.
- Mix 1/2 cup of infused taraxacum officinale with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth cream, taking about 10 minutes.
7. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The plant contains compounds that reduce redness and swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, plantain has been traditionally used to calm irritated skin and tissues, which makes it effective in reducing puffiness and discoloration around the eyes.
Its natural anti-inflammatory properties provide quick relief and help to alleviate eye swelling and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with eye swelling.
- Aucubin: Aucubin is a phenylethanoid glycoside that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes.
- Plantaginic acid: Plantaginic acid is a phenolic acid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate eye swelling and promote healing.
- Bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids: These alkaloids have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eye swelling and promote overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the eyes.
- Seeds: They are used because of their potential to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as their ability to promote the healing of wounds and soothe irritated skin.
- Roots: They are used for their purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate eye swelling and promote overall eye health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for eye swelling.
- Harvest 10 to 20 grams of fresh plantago major leaves on a dry sunny day.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm dark place for at least 24 hours.
- Steep one teaspoon of dried plantago major leaves in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the infusion and combine it with 50 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter.
- Whip the mixture for 10 minutes until it thickens and forms a smooth creamy consistency.
8. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, help to reduce inflammation and swelling by blocking the release of chemical mediators responsible for inflammation. Additionally, the cream's soothing and moisturizing properties help to calm the skin, reducing redness and discomfort. This makes Urtica dioica cream a popular natural remedy for alleviating eye swelling and promoting overall eye health.
Its effectiveness is due to its ability to address the root causes of inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with eye swelling.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals.
- Fisetin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate eye swelling and redness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the eyes by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are commonly used due to their high content of histamine-releasing compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Stems: Urtica dioica stems contain anti-inflammatory compounds like saponins and polyphenols that help soothe and calm the skin, making them a popular choice for eye cream formulations.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are used due to their rich content of bioactive compounds, including glycosides and alkaloids, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for eye swelling.
- Harvest the urtica dioica plant leaves and stems from a trusted source in late spring or early summer when in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 105°f for 2 hours or air-dry for 7 days.
- Combine 1 cup of dried urtica dioica plant material with 2 cups of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and store in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have a calming effect on the skin, reducing redness and puffiness. The cream's cooling sensation also helps to constrict blood vessels, further reducing swelling.
Additionally, chamomile's antihistamine properties can help alleviate allergic reactions that may contribute to eye swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for this common issue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with eye swelling.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate eye irritation.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and calm the eyes, reducing swelling and promoting healing.
- Alpha-bisabolol acetate: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and protect the eyes from further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Flowers: Rich in apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce eye swelling.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing eye swelling.
- Seeds: Rich in essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eye swelling.
- Harvest 250g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at peak potency and store them in airtight containers.
- Steam distill the dried flowers in a double boiler to obtain 100g of essential oil.
- Combine 200g of distilled water with 1g of sodium lauryl sulfate in a glass beaker.
- Mix 10g of beeswax with 20g of candelilla wax and heat the mixture in a double boiler.
- Blend the essential oil with the wax mixture and add it to the sodium lauryl sulfate solution to create the cream.
10. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce swelling and soothe irritated skin. When applied topically, these creams can help to calm and relax the skin around the eyes, reducing puffiness and promoting a more refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.
This makes English lavender creams a popular natural remedy for relieving eye swelling and promoting a more radiant complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with eye swelling.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia, helps with eye swelling by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which in turn eases swelling and discomfort.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate, another terpene in Lavandula angustifolia, aids in reducing eye swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals and promoting vasodilation, which helps to reduce swelling and promote blood flow.
- Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid found in Lavandula angustifolia, helps with eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for eye swelling.
- Leaves: Contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with eye conditions.
- Flowers: Rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing and calming the eye area.
- Stems: Contain essential oils that help to relax and reduce puffiness in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for eye swelling.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom in the early morning.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer on a wire rack in a warm place for 1 week.
- Combine 1/4 cup of dried flowers, 1/2 cup of distilled water, and 1 tablespoon of glycerin in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, then steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean bowl and whip in 1/4 cup of cocoa butter until smooth.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for eye swelling?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with eye swelling is a blend of arnica, calendula, and chamomile.
Arnica cream reduces inflammation and soothes the skin, while calendula cream promotes wound healing and tissue repair. Chamomile cream calms the skin and reduces redness, making it an effective combination for eye swelling caused by allergies, irritations, or minor injuries.
Apply a thin layer of this mixture to the affected area several times a day for optimal results.
What ailments similar to eye swelling are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to eye swelling that are treated with herbal creams are various skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil help soothe and calm inflamed skin, reducing redness and itching.
Other conditions like rosacea, acne, and minor burns can also be treated with herbal creams to promote healing and reduce discomfort.