By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Eye Swelling
Herbal tinctures for eye swelling are a natural remedy that helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort associated with puffy or swollen eyes.
These liquid extracts of plants, such as peppermint, chamomile, and calendula, work by calming the skin and reducing redness, allowing for improved vision and reduced sensitivity to light. For example, peppermint tincture can be applied topically to reduce swelling and itching, while chamomile tincture helps to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
This natural solution improves lives by providing a non-invasive and gentle way to address eye issues, reducing the need for harsh chemicals or prescription medications.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for eye swelling, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Hamamelis virginiana
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Hypericum perforatum
- 6. Aloe vera
- 7. Arctium lappa
- 8. Equisetum arvense
- 9. Galactites tomentosa
- 10. Gentiana lutea
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eye swelling?
- What ailments similar to eye swelling are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture contains a compound called gallic acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort in the eyes. When applied topically or taken as a supplement, witch hazel tincture can help constrict blood vessels and reduce fluid buildup, resulting in a significant decrease in eye swelling.
This natural remedy can provide fast and effective relief from puffy, swollen eyes caused by allergies, sinus pressure, or other conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Hamamelitannin: A polyphenolic compound that acts as an astringent, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation around the eyes by constricting blood vessels and preventing excessive fluid accumulation.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate eye swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the swelling and redness.
- Gallic acid: A phenolic acid that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help reduce eye swelling by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting inflammatory mediators, and promoting the breakdown of excess fluids and waste products.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to reduce swelling and soothe the affected area.
- Barks: Utilized for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area around the eyes.
- Stems: Employed for their anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate eye swelling and promote a calming effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for eye swelling.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs in late summer or early fall.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 1 week.
- Chop 1/2 cup of the dried plant material into small pieces.
- Steep 1/2 cup of the chopped plant material in 2 cups of 80 proof vodka for 4 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, specifically targeting the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes.
The tannins present in the herb have been shown to reduce puffiness and redness by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid accumulation. Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidant properties help protect the eyes from further damage caused by free radicals.
As a result, this natural remedy can effectively alleviate eye swelling and promote a more refreshed and youthful appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Phenolic acids: Help reduce eye swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Flavonoids: Act as potent antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress that contributes to eye inflammation and swelling.
- Naphthoquinones: Exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to eye swelling and redness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Flowers: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Leaves: Utilized for their ability to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues, making them effective in treating eye swelling.
- Stems: Employed for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing swelling and preventing infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye swelling.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the fresh calendula flowers in a single layer in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried calendula flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create the tincture.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids to obtain the final product.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the plant's active compounds, such as kaempferol and quercetin.
These natural flavonoids work to reduce puffiness and redness by calming irritated tissues and soothing swollen eyelids. The tincture also contains antihistamine-like compounds that help alleviate itchiness and discharge associated with eye allergies or irritations.
As a result, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide effective relief from uncomfortable and unsightly eye swelling, allowing for clear and comfortable vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, specifically echinacoside, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate eye discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes.
- Alkamides: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help to regulate the immune response and reduce eye swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are used due to their high concentration of compounds that reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm eye swelling.
- Roots is repeated here. however, rhyzomes is also used. rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used due to their ability to inhibit the release of histamine and other inflammatory compounds that cause eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for eye swelling.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of dried roots of echinacea angustifolia in early spring or late fall.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool place.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to clean dark glass bottles.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with eye swelling because its extract contains flavonoids, which possess potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture's ability to reduce inflammation in the body is particularly beneficial for alleviating eye swelling caused by allergies, sinus pressure, or minor injuries. As a natural anti-inflammatory agent, it works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals responsible for causing blood vessels to dilate and lead to swelling.
This natural remedy promotes healthy vision and provides relief from discomfort and puffiness associated with eye swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to eye swelling.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eye, thereby alleviating swelling.
- Quercetin: As a powerful flavonoid, quercetin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with eye conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used for making tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which are responsible for the medicinal effects.
- Seeds: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms associated with eye swelling.
- Barks: They are also used to make tinctures due to their flavonoid content, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to alleviate eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for eye swelling.
- Gather 1 part ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers and combine them with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Add a small amount of glycerin to the liquid and mix well to enhance the tincture's shelf life.
- Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place, away from children and pets, for up to 2 years.
5. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in various parts of the body, including the eyes.
When applied topically as an eye drop or added to a warm compress, St John's Wort tincture can help to soothe and calm the affected area, reducing puffiness and discomfort associated with eye swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce eye swelling by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and scavenging free radicals.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that is a known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, which may help alleviate eye swelling by inhibiting histamine release, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating inflammatory pathways.
- N-phenyl-1-naphthylamine: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate eye swelling by suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and scavenging free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Leaves: Rich in hyperoside, an anti-inflammatory flavonoid that helps reduce swelling.
- Flowers: High in hypericin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate eye swelling.
- Barks: Contains a mixture of flavonoids, including quercetin, that have anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for eye swelling.
- Harvest 100g of the fresh flowering tops of hypericum perforatum in the early morning.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 100g of the dried plant material with 500ml of 80% ethanol.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
6. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with eye swelling because it possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that effectively reduce puffiness and redness.
The aloe vera gel, when extracted and concentrated into a tincture form, can be easily absorbed into the skin around the eyes, targeting the delicate orbital area to calm and decongest blood vessels.
This natural remedy gently relieves eye strain and discomfort, leaving the eyes feeling refreshed, revitalized, and free from swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosidic compounds help reduce eye swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated tissues.
- Phenolic acids: Compounds like salicylic acid and ferulic acid present in Aloe vera exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help alleviate eye swelling and promote faster healing.
- Aloe-emodin: A chromone-derived anthraquinone, aloe-emodin has been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous properties, effectively reducing eye swelling and promoting tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Leaves: They are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help reduce swelling and ease eye irritation.
- Gel from leaves: The clear, gel-like substance found inside the Aloe vera leaf is rich in hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and other soothing compounds that help calm and moisturize the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eye swelling.
- Harvest 20-25 aloe vera leaves with thick fleshy skin from mature plants during summer months when the gel is most potent.
- Wash the leaves under running water to remove dirt and other impurities from the skin.
- Slice the leaves into thin pieces and soak them in a 1:1 ratio of aloe vera to 80 proof ethanol in a glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow the aloe vera to infuse into the ethanol slowly.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
7. Arctium lappa
Burdock tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce puffiness and soothe irritated eyes.
The root extract of burdock contains powerful antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healthy blood flow to the delicate tissues around the eyes.
Additionally, burdock's gentle diuretic properties help to drain excess fluids from the body, further alleviating water retention and swelling in the eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Phenolic acids: They help reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Terpenoids: These compounds, particularly arctiin, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help alleviate eye swelling and promote healing.
- Saponins: As a type of triterpenoid saponin, arctigenin in Arctium lappa has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate eye swelling and oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain a high concentration of inulin and other anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Seeds: Seeds are used because they contain a high amount of sesquiterpene lactones, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain various flavonoids and phenolic acids that help to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for eye swelling.
- Harvest fresh arctium lappa roots in the spring or fall when they are mature and dry them immediately.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and measure out 1 part roots to 2 parts menstruum such as vodka.
- Combine the chopped roots and vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature.
8. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's high concentration of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and saponins, work to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues in the eyes. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and other ocular conditions characterized by swelling, redness, and discharge.
By applying field horsetail tincture to the affected area, users can experience rapid relief from discomfort and improve overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Saponins: Saponins in Equisetum arvense have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and inflammation around the eyes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate eye swelling and promote healing.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Equisetum arvense, including equisetic and isoequisetic, may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce eye swelling and promote recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Roots: Equisetum arvense roots are used due to their high content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling.
- Leaves: Equisetum arvense leaves are used for their cooling and soothing effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes.
- Stems: Equisetum arvense stems are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote drainage, which can help to alleviate eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for eye swelling.
- Harvest fresh or dried equisetum arvense stems and roots in the spring or fall season.
- Chop the harvested equisetum arvense material into small pieces and weigh out 250 grams.
- Combine the chopped equisetum arvense with 1.25 liters of high-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking daily for 10 minutes.
- Strain the equisetum arvense tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard solids.
9. Galactites tomentosa
Resin oak tinctures helps with eye swelling because its unique combination of plant extracts and essential oils has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The resin's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, work synergistically to reduce inflammation and alleviate congestion in the eyes. By penetrating deep into the affected areas, these compounds help to dissipate swelling, ease pressure, and promote healthy vision.
As a result, herbal resin oak tinctures can provide fast and effective relief for those experiencing eye swelling due to various causes such as allergies, sinusitis, or injury.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galactites tomentosa tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the eyes.
- Tannins: Tannins can constrict blood vessels, which may help reduce the appearance of swelling and puffiness around the eyes.
- Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin and tissues around the eyes, reducing swelling and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of resin oak used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves of Galatella tomentosa are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe and reduce eye swelling.
- Stems: The stems are used because they contain flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory effects that can alleviate eye swelling.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections, making them effective in treating eye swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic resin oak for eye swelling.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried roots of galactites tomentosa at the optimal time of year.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Steep the chopped roots in 500 milliliters of 80 percent ethanol at a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid from the roots through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
- Filter the liquid through a 0.2 micron filter and bottle the final tincture in dark glass containers.
10. Gentiana lutea
Yellow gentian tinctures helps with eye swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce puffiness and ease discomfort.
The herbal extract contains flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling in the eyes.
Additionally, yellow gentian's diuretic properties help to remove excess fluid from the body, further alleviating eye swelling and promoting a sense of clarity and visual comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea tinctures that help with eye swelling.
- Amorfrutins: Amorfrutins, a type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides, particularly gentiopicroside, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate eye swelling by reducing inflammation and protecting the delicate tissues in the eyes.
- Gentiopicrivine: Gentiopicrivine, an alkaloid compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate eye swelling by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make tinctures for eye swelling.
- Roots: The roots of Gentiana lutea are used due to their high concentration of gentiopicroside, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate eye swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their gentiopicroside content, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes.
- Roots (specifically, dried roots): Dried roots are also used for their gentiopicroside and gentianine content, which can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for eye swelling.
- Harvest the roots of gentiana lutea in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full flower.
- Clean the roots thoroughly by washing them in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a ratio of 1 part roots to 2 parts solvent such as ethanol or glycerin to create the tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the roots to infuse.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eye swelling?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with eye swelling is a blend of calendula, eyebright, and chamomile.
Calendula reduces inflammation and soothes the skin, while eyebright specifically addresses eye issues, reducing puffiness and redness. Chamomile calms the entire area, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can exacerbate eye swelling.
Take a few drops of each tincture, mixed with water or a carrier oil, and apply it around the affected area using a cotton ball to help alleviate eye swelling and promote healing.
What ailments similar to eye swelling are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to eye swelling that are treated with herbal tinctures are various skin issues, such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis.
Herbal tinctures like tea tree oil, lavender oil, and chamomile extract have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe irritated skin and reduce swelling.
Additionally, herbal tinctures can also be used to treat conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, and insect bites, which may exhibit similar symptoms of inflammation and redness.