By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Red Eyes
Herbal creams for red eyes are topical ointments or creams that utilize plant extracts to soothe and reduce redness and puffiness in the eyes.
These creams typically contain ingredients such as chamomile, aloe vera, and green tea, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to calm and moisturize the delicate skin around the eyes.
Products like La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Ultra Night and Kiehl's Avocado Eye Cream can effectively reduce redness and dark circles, allowing individuals to feel more refreshed and confident throughout the day.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for red eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Hypericum perforatum
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Melissa officinalis
- 9. Sambucus nigra
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for red eyes?
- What ailments similar to red eyes are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel of the aloe plant is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as amino acids and fatty acids, which work together to reduce swelling and calm irritated eyes. The cooling sensation of aloe vera cream can provide instant relief from redness, itchiness, and dryness, making it an effective remedy for people experiencing eye strain or irritation.
Regular use can also promote eye health and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with red eyes.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds help reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes, which can contribute to redness, and also have antimicrobial properties to prevent infections that can exacerbate red eyes.
- Vitamins and minerals: These antioxidants help protect the delicate skin around the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, reducing redness and inflammation, and also promote healing and regeneration of tissues.
- Acemannan: This polysaccharide has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, and also promote healing and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for red eyes.
- Leaves: The most commonly used part of Aloe vera in creams for red eyes due to their high concentration of aloe-emodin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gel from leaves: The clear gel extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that help soothe and calm red eyes.
- Extract from leaves: The extract from Aloe vera leaves contains aloin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce redness and irritation in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for red eyes.
- Combine 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a small bowl.
- Heat the mixture gently over low heat for 5 minutes stirring constantly to melt the oil.
- Remove the bowl from the heat and add 1 teaspoon of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil.
- Whisk the mixture until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture into a small glass jar and let it cool to room temperature before use.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, work to reduce swelling and irritation, thereby alleviating redness and discomfort. By promoting healing and reducing inflammation, Calendula officinalis creams can provide quick relief from irritated and inflamed eyes, leaving them feeling calm, comfortable, and back to normal.
Its natural and gentle approach makes it an effective remedy for soothing red eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with red eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help alleviate redness and inflammation in the eyes by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the healing of damaged tissue.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds, particularly calendulic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm red, irritated eyes, reducing swelling and promoting comfort.
- Naphthoquinones: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections and reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, promoting a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for red eyes.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and soothing effects, which can help reduce redness and discomfort in the eyes.
- Seeds: They are used due to their ability to enhance the overall potency of the cream and provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for red eyes.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers when in full bloom and dry them completely within 2 weeks.
- Steep 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and discard the solids then add 1 teaspoon of beeswax to 1 tablespoon of shea butter.
- Melt the beeswax and shea butter mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the infused oil to the melted mixture and whip until smooth and creamy.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The Echinacea angustifolia plant contains compounds that soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing redness and swelling. Its cooling and moisturizing effects provide quick relief from eye strain and discomfort caused by allergies, dry air, or prolonged screen time.
Additionally, the cream's natural antimicrobial properties help combat infections that may contribute to red eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with red eyes.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and redness associated with red eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids, such as echinamine, have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which may help combat underlying infections that contribute to red eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for red eyes.
- Roots: They are used to make creams for red eyes due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for red eyes because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and redness.
- Seeds: They are used to make creams for red eyes due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote healing, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for red eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is dormant and dry the roots for 2 weeks.
- Grind the dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1000mg of the ground echinacea root powder with 100g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a heat-proof bowl.
- Heat the mixture over low heat in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax and coconut oil melt.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and store the herbal echinacea angustifolia cream in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with red eyes because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The extract from the Ginkgo biloba leaves has been shown to improve blood flow to the eyes, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. By reducing puffiness and irritation, Ginkgo biloba creams can help alleviate red eyes caused by fatigue, allergies, or exposure to irritants.
Its soothing and moisturizing effects also help to calm and comfort the delicate skin around the eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with red eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function, which can alleviate red, irritated eyes.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that can contribute to eye irritation and inflammation, thus soothing red eyes.
- Quercetin: As a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, quercetin helps reduce swelling and protect the delicate tissues around the eyes, alleviating redness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for red eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and calm red, irritated eyes.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high content of bilobalide and ginkgolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to stimulate blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help to alleviate red, irritated eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for red eyes.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a trusted supplier.
- Combine 30-60 grams of the dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 1 cup of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the mixture and heat it gently until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
5. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
The active compounds in Hypericum perforatum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce swelling and alleviate allergic reactions that can cause redness and irritation in the eyes. By soothing and calming the affected area, these creams can help to reduce redness and discomfort, promoting a more comfortable and clear vision.
This natural remedy can provide relief from red eyes caused by allergies or irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with red eyes.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and viral replication in the conjunctiva, leading to relief from red eyes.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help mitigate the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in the conjunctiva, thereby reducing redness and discomfort.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have astringent and anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce swelling and alleviate redness in the conjunctiva by tightening the tissues and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for red eyes.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe red eyes.
- Flowers: They are a rich source of hyperforin and hypericin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce redness and irritation.
- Stems: They contain bioflavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce puffiness and redness in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for red eyes.
- Harvest 50g of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers at peak potency in early summer morning dew.
- Dry the freshly harvested flowers in a warm place for 1-2 weeks to preserve their properties.
- Infuse 20g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers in 100ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Mix 10g of the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil to create a smooth cream consistency.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The natural antioxidants present in lavender oil can reduce puffiness and irritation, providing immediate relief from red, itchy eyes. The calming effects of lavender also help to relax the eyes and surrounding muscles, reducing strain and promoting healthy eye function.
Regular use of lavender creams can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of red eye episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with red eyes.
- Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
- Linalyl acetate: As a terpene ester, it has a sedative effect, which can help alleviate eye irritation and reduce redness caused by stress or fatigue.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, leading to a reduction in redness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for red eyes.
- Flowers: They are used due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and soothe the eyes.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce puffiness and calm the eyes.
- Seeds: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and prevent infections around the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for red eyes.
- Harvest 250g of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers when in full bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
- Dry the flowers in a warm oven at 40c for 2 hours to preserve the essential oils.
- Steep 50g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 500ml of sweet almond oil for 4 hours under the sun.
- Mix the infused oil with 200g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler at 70c.
- Whip the mixture for 5 minutes until it thickens into a smooth and creamy texture.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and calm the eyes. This helps to alleviate redness and irritation caused by allergies, dryness, or exposure to irritants.
By applying chamomile cream to the eyes, individuals can experience a sense of relief and comfort, allowing their eyes to return to a normal, healthy state.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with red eyes.
- Apigenin: An apigenin, a flavone compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help calm irritated eyes and reduce redness.
- Furanocoumarins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce redness and prevent infections that may be contributing to red eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for red eyes.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for red eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are used to make creams for red eyes due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves are used to make creams for red eyes due to their soothing and calming effects on the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for red eyes.
- Infuse dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a 1:5 ratio for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Combine the infused oil with a thickening agent like beeswax and a natural emulsifier like cetyl alcohol.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water until the beeswax melts.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
8. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, help to calm and reduce swelling in the affected area. This leads to a decrease in the appearance of redness and puffiness.
Additionally, lemon balm's ability to relax and calm the eyes can also help to reduce stress and promote a good night's sleep, which can be beneficial in reducing red eyes caused by fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with red eyes.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps reduce inflammation and swelling associated with red eyes, providing a soothing effect.
- Melissic acid: A phenolic acid, melissic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate redness and irritation in the eyes.
- Linalool: A terpene, linalool has a calming effect on the eyes, reducing redness and promoting relaxation, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for red eyes.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and reduce redness in the eyes.
- Flowers: They have been traditionally used to treat eye irritations and are a common ingredient in herbal remedies for red eyes due to their calming and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: They contain a high concentration of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them beneficial for soothing red eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for red eyes.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day sets in.
- Dry the melissa officinalis leaves in a single layer at a temperature of 40°c for 2 hours.
- Infuse 10 grams of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 10 grams of beeswax to the oil.
- Heat the oil and beeswax mixture in a double boiler at 60°c for 10 minutes to create a smooth cream.
9. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, creams helps with red eyes because it contains antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties help to reduce swelling and itching in the eyes, providing relief from redness and discomfort. The cream's soothing and cooling effect also helps to calm the eyes, making it an effective remedy for people who experience red, irritated eyes due to allergies, dryness, or overuse of digital devices.
It promotes healthy eye function and provides quick relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra creams that help with red eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate redness in the eyes by neutralizing free radicals and improving blood vessel function.
- Vitamins a and c: These antioxidants help protect the delicate tissues in the eyes from damage, reduce oxidative stress, and promote the healing of irritated or inflamed eye areas, thus alleviating redness.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants found in Elderberry have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and redness in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make creams for red eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are used to make creams for red eyes because they contain flavonoids and anthocyanins that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra are used to make creams for red eyes because they have antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra are used to make creams for red eyes because they contain tannins and other compounds that have astringent and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for red eyes.
- Harvest 1/3 cup of sambucus nigra berries from a wild or cultivated source and dry them for 3 days.
- Combine 1/2 cup of dried sambucus nigra berries with 1 cup of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to infuse in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the infused oil and heat mixture gently.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce puffiness and inflammation in the eyes. The cream's ability to calm and cool the skin around the eyes also helps to reduce redness and irritation, providing instant relief from tired, irritated eyes.
This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective solution for red, itchy, or irritated eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with red eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin found in Dandelion, taraxasterol has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate red, irritated eyes.
- Chlorogenic acid: A polyphenolic compound with antioxidant properties, chlorogenic acid can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating red eye symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for red eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for red eyes because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and soothe irritated eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for red eyes because they contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for red eyes because they contain saponins and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to calm and protect the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for red eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at the peak of their potency when they are in full bloom.
- Extract the herb's active compounds by infusing 2 tablespoons of the leaves and flowers in 1 cup of carrier oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter to create a smooth blend.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and emulsifies to form a rich and creamy taraxacum officinale cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for red eyes?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with red eyes is a blend of Aloe vera, Peppermint, and Chamomile.
Aloe vera soothes and calms the eyes, reducing inflammation. Peppermint helps to constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of redness.
Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory properties, further reduces swelling and irritation. This combination can be applied topically, providing quick relief from red, itchy, and tired eyes.
Regular use can help maintain healthy, comfortable eyes.
What ailments similar to red eyes are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to red eyes that are treated with herbal creams are various skin irritations and infections, such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and minor cuts and scrapes.
Herbal creams containing soothing herbs like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile help calm inflammation and reduce discomfort, promoting healthy healing and reducing the risk of scarring.
These natural remedies are often gentle enough for sensitive skin and can be used in conjunction with other treatments as directed by a healthcare professional.