10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Red Eyes

Herbal decoctions for red eyes are a natural and effective way to soothe and alleviate dry, irritated, or inflamed eyes.

These decoctions are made by steeping herbs like eyebright, chamomile, and calendula in hot water, releasing their active compounds that help to reduce redness, itchiness, and inflammation. By drinking these decoctions, individuals can experience relief from the discomfort of red eyes, allowing them to resume daily activities without distraction or annoyance.

For example, a warm cup of eyebright tea after a long day at the computer can bring instant relief, while a chamomile decoction before bed can promote a good night's sleep.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for red eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright decoctions helps with red eyes because of its unique ability to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation in the delicate tissue surrounding the eyes.

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of eyebright help to soothe irritated eyes, calming the discomfort caused by allergies, fatigue, or dryness.

As a natural remedy, eyebright decoctions can effectively alleviate redness, itchiness, and puffiness, promoting clear and comfortable vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Iridoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, making them an effective remedy for red eyes.
• Tannins: Tannins in Euphrasia officinalis have astringent properties that help to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation, thereby relieving redness and discomfort in the eyes.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help to protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and alleviate redness, making them a crucial component in the treatment of red eyes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help reduce redness in the eyes.
• Stems: The stems of Euphrasia officinalis contain iridoids and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and alleviate eye irritation, making them a popular choice for treating red eyes.
• Flowers: The flowers of Euphrasia officinalis are also used to treat red eyes due to their high content of iridoids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for red eyes.

1. Collect 30-60 grams of fresh or dried euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers for decoction preparation.
2. Chop the collected herb into smaller pieces to increase its surface area for better extraction.
3. Combine the chopped herb with 250-500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow for herb extraction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the herb residue.

2. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The decoction's flavonoids and carotenoids work together to reduce swelling and ease irritation in the eyes, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing redness and discomfort caused by dryness, allergies, or fatigue.

As a gentle and non-irritating treatment, pot marigold decoctions can help restore the eyes' natural moisture balance and promote healthy vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate redness in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.
• N-alkanoyl-4-hydroxyanthranilates: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and calm irritated eye tissues, thereby reducing redness and promoting healing.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that aid in reducing swelling and redness in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutralizing free radicals.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Flowers: The most used part of Calendula officinalis for decoctions to treat red eyes is the flowers, as they are rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also commonly used, containing compounds that can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and inflammation.
• Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are another part utilized in decoctions, offering additional anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in treating red eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for red eyes.

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers and 4 cups of water to prepare the decoction.
2. Combine the dried calendula flowers in a saucepan with 4 cups of cold water and heat on medium heat.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
5. Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

3. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal decoctions helps with red eyes because it contains berberine, a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compound that soothes and calms irritated eyes.

The decoction reduces puffiness and swelling, while also combating underlying infections that can cause redness and itchiness.

Additionally, goldenseal's antimicrobial properties help eliminate bacterial and fungal contaminants that can exacerbate eye issues, promoting healthy tear production and reducing the appearance of redness and inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Berberine: This alkaloid has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
• Hydrastine: This alkaloid has vasoconstrictive properties that help constrict blood vessels and reduce redness in the eyes.
• Oleuropein: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to red eyes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help alleviate red eyes.
• Leaves: The leaves are also widely used, as they contain berberine and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and fight off infections causing red eyes.
• Stems: The stems may be used in some decoctions, offering additional berberine and potentially other medicinal compounds to help soothe and treat red eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for red eyes.

1. Harvest fresh hydrastis canadensis roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
2. Chop the hydrastis canadensis roots into small pieces weighing approximately 1 gram per 8 ounces of water used.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 8 ounces of water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.

4. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues.

The herbal remedy contains Echinacea pallida, a natural antioxidant that combats free radicals responsible for triggering inflammation in the eyes.

As it calms redness and discomfort, Kansas coneflower decoctions also promote healthy blood flow, ensuring a clear and comfortable visual experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Iridoids: Iridoids help with red eyes by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and redness in the eyes.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids help with red eyes by acting as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress that can cause inflammation and redness in the eyes.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides help with red eyes by possessing anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with red eyes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes.
• Leaves: Contain compounds that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm red, irritated eyes.
• Roots: Also rich in echinacoside, which has been traditionally used to treat eye infections and reduce redness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for red eyes.

1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots and clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of chopped root with 1 cup of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let the decoction simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow for maximum extraction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

5. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow decoctions helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and phenolic acids present in yarrow leaves and flowers have been shown to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort caused by irritated or inflamed eye tissues. By soothing the delicate skin around the eyes, yarrow decoctions can help to calm redness and irritation, promoting a sense of comfort and relief.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to gently and effectively combat red, itchy, or watery eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which can help reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with red, irritated eyes.
• Nepetalactone: This iridoid ester has been shown to have vasoconstrictive properties, which can help reduce blood flow to the eyes and alleviate redness.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce the oxidative stress that can contribute to red, irritated eyes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease redness in the eyes.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their soothing and antiseptic properties, which help to calm and protect the eyes from infection.
• Roots: The roots are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce redness and combat underlying infections causing eye irritation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for red eyes.

1. Gather dried achillea millefolium flowers and leaves from a trusted herbal supplier or harvest them sustainably in your garden.
2. Measure out 1 tablespoon of dried achillea millefolium for every 8 ounces of water you plan to use.
3. Combine the measured achillea millefolium with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or let it simmer for 10 to 20 minutes for a stronger infusion.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove the solids.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce puffiness and ease irritation.

The decoction's flavonoids and saponins work together to soothe the delicate tissues around the eyes, calming redness and discomfort caused by allergens, dryness, or fatigue.

By reducing inflammation, licorice decoctions promote a healthy balance of moisture and calmness in the eyes, providing long-lasting relief from red, irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Glycyrrhizin: Helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes, alleviating redness and discomfort.
• Licoricidin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing redness and irritation.
• Licopyranocoumarin: Displays anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the eyes, resulting in a decrease in redness and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and glycosides that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm red eyes.
• Barks: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes caused by infections or irritations.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for red eyes.

1. Gather 20-30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and rinse them under cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Weigh 1-2 teaspoons of the rinsed roots and place them in a heat-resistant glass container.
3. Combine 1 liter of distilled water with the glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the glass container.
4. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes over medium heat to release the active constituents.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with red eyes because it has anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and soothe irritated conjunctiva.

The decoction's flavonoids and antioxidants also help to neutralize free radicals, calming the eye area and reducing puffiness. Additionally, dandelion's natural astringent properties help to constrict blood vessels, which reduces redness and discoloration.

As a result, herbal dandelion decoctions can provide effective relief from irritated, red eyes caused by allergies, fatigue, or environmental factors.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and congestion, which can contribute to red eyes by improving blood flow and reducing swelling in the affected area.
• Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale decoctions may help to reduce inflammation and improve drainage, which can alleviate redness and puffiness associated with eye issues.
• Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid has potent antioxidant properties, which can help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, leading to redness and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions for red eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions for red eyes due to their ability to reduce swelling and soothe irritation.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make decoctions for red eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to calm and protect the affected area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for red eyes.

1. Collect fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in equal parts for a total of 2 ounces by weight.
2. Wash the collected plant material in cold water to remove dirt and impurities thoroughly.
3. Chop the taraxacum officinale plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Steep the chopped plant material in 32 ounces of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.

8. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena decoctions helps with red eyes because its soothing properties calm inflammation and reduce congestion.

The herbal tea's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as citral and geraniol, work to alleviate puffiness and irritation, while its antispasmodic properties ease tension in the eye muscles. As a result, lemon verbena decoctions provide relief from redness, itchiness, and burning sensations, leaving eyes feeling cool, calm, and refreshed.

This natural remedy is an effective way to combat common eye irritations, promoting healthy and comfortable vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Verbascoside: Verbascoside is a phenylethanoid glycoside that helps reduce inflammation and soothe red eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting relaxation.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic diterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate redness and irritation in the eyes by neutralizing free radicals and suppressing inflammation.
• Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce redness and swelling in the eyes by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory compounds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain antimicrobial properties that help soothe and reduce redness in the eyes.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because they have a calming effect on the eyes and can help reduce redness and irritation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for red eyes.

1. Harvest fresh or dried leaves of verbena officinalis in quantities of 20 to 30 grams.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to release their herbal properties and oils.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 1 liter of boiling water and reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 10 to 15 minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The mucilages present in marshmallow root form a protective film on the surface of the eye, reducing swelling and discomfort. Additionally, the antioxidants in marshmallow decoctions help to neutralize free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to redness and puffiness.

By reducing inflammation and protecting the delicate tissues of the eyes, marshmallow decoctions provide natural relief from red, irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Mucilages: Mucilages, such as althaea mucilage, help soothe and calm irritated eyes by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the eye, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with red eyes.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhapontigenin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling, redness, and oxidative stress associated with red eyes.
• Saponins: Saponins, such as althaea saponins, possess anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help calm and protect the delicate tissues of the eyes, reducing redness and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: They contain mucilages, which help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes.
• Roots: (also the most used part) They are often used in combination with other parts for their high mucilage content and soothing properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for red eyes.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh or 2 tablespoons of dried roots from the althaea officinalis plant.
2. Dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes and strain it to create the decoction.

10. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's active compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, work to reduce swelling and alleviate itchiness in the eyes. This natural remedy also contains antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and protect the delicate eye tissues from damage.

By soothing and calming the eyes, purple coneflower decoctions provide effective relief for red, irritated eyes, promoting comfort and clear vision.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with red eyes.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate redness in the eyes by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to redness and discomfort.
• Polyphenols: These antioxidants in Echinacea purpurea may help protect the delicate tissues in the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing redness and promoting overall eye health.
• Alkylamides: These compounds may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for red eyes.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with red eyes.
• Leaves: They are used for their ability to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and calm irritated eyes.
• Flowers: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with red eyes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for red eyes.

1. Harvest 2 to 4 ounces of fresh echinacea purpurea roots or 1 to 2 ounces of dried roots.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 4 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for red eyes?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with red eyes is a blend of calendula, chamomile, and eyebright.

Calendula soothes inflammation and irritation, while chamomile calms and cools the eyes. Eyebright, rich in antioxidants, reduces redness and swelling. A balanced ratio of 2 parts calendula, 2 parts chamomile, and 1 part eyebright can be steeped in hot water to make a soothing tea.

Strain and use as a compress or apply drops directly to the eyes for relief from redness and discomfort.

What ailments similar to red eyes are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to red eyes that are treated with herbal decoctions are various eye issues, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and dry eyes.

Herbal decoctions made from herbs like goldenseal, calendula, and eyebright can help soothe and calm irritated eyes.

Decoctions of chamomile, licorice root, and marshmallow root may also be used to treat allergies and itchiness in the eyes, while those containing ginkgo biloba may help improve vision clarity and reduce inflammation.