10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Red Eyes

Herbal tinctures for red eyes are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based ingredients that help to soothe and calm irritated eyes.

These natural remedies contain anti-inflammatory properties that reduce puffiness, redness, and itchiness caused by allergies, dry air, or fatigue. Tinctures like Calendula, Echinacea, and Goldenseal have been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms of red eyes, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities without discomfort.

By using herbal tinctures for red eyes, people can enjoy improved vision, reduced eye strain, and a better quality of life.

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

1. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright tinctures helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal extract contains flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that soothe irritated tissues and reduce swelling in the eyes. When applied topically or consumed as a supplement, eyebright tinctures help to calm redness and itchiness caused by allergies, dry air, or fatigue, promoting clear vision and comfort.

By reducing inflammation, eyebright tinctures also alleviate dry eye symptoms, leaving your peepers feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic acids: Euphrasia officinalis tinctures contain phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress contributing to red eyes.
• Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures, such as euphrasine and euphorine, exhibit vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with red eyes.
• Terpenoids: Iridoid glycosides, a type of terpenoid found in Euphrasia officinalis, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the eyes, reducing redness and irritation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm red eyes.
• Flowers: They are used because they contain iridoid glycosides, which have been shown to have vasoconstrictive properties that can help reduce blood flow to the eyes, alleviating redness and irritation.
• Stems: They are used due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, similar to the leaves, which provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help to calm and soothe red eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the aerial parts of euphrasia officinalis when in full bloom and at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested euphrasia officinalis aerial parts in a warm well-ventilated area for 2 to 4 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part of dried euphrasia officinalis aerial parts with 2 parts of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and label it appropriately.

2. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains a wealth of antioxidants, flavonoids, and carotenoids that work together to soothe and calm irritated eyes. When applied topically or taken internally as a supplement, pot marigold tincture can reduce swelling and ease discomfort caused by allergies, dryness, or other eye irritants.

Its natural anti-inflammatory action also helps to reduce redness and puffiness, leaving eyes feeling cool, calm, and clear.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with irritated eyes.
• Phenolic acids: As potent antioxidants, they can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, thereby reducing redness and discomfort.
• Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and promoting overall eye health.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and relieve red, irritated eyes.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used in tinctures to reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes, thanks to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
• Seeds: The seeds contain saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate red, itchy, and irritated eyes, making them a useful addition to eye tinctures.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula flowers at peak bloom in late morning or early afternoon when essential oils are most concentrated.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer in a well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks to prevent mold.
3. Combine 1 part dried calendula flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the tincture immediately.

3. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal tinctures helps with red eyes because it contains berberine, a potent natural antibacterial agent that targets the underlying causes of redness and inflammation.

When used topically or taken internally as a supplement, goldenseal's antimicrobial properties help to reduce bacterial growth in the eye, thereby alleviating symptoms such as itching, burning, and excessive tearing.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory compounds help to soothe and calm irritated eyes, promoting a sense of comfort and relief from redness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Berberine: Helps reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Hydrastine: Exhibits vasoconstrictive properties, which help constrict blood vessels in the eyes and reduce redness and swelling.
• Hydrastis glycosides: Possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent infections and reduce redness and inflammation in the eyes.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used for making tinctures due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves contain a higher amount of hydrastine, a compound that has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in reducing redness and inflammation in the eyes.
• Barks: The barks of the plant also contain berberine and hydrastine, which are used to make tinctures that can help alleviate redness, itching, and irritation in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh hydrastis canadensis roots in the spring or fall with permission.
2. Clean the roots by gently scrubbing them with water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Chop 1-2 cups of the cleaned roots into small pieces and combine them with 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids completely.

4. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with red eyes because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb, Echinacea pallida, is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that work together to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes. This soothing effect helps alleviate redness, itchiness, and dryness associated with eye allergies, irritation, or fatigue.

Additionally, Kansas coneflower's antimicrobial properties may help combat infections that can cause red eyes, providing fast and effective relief from this common annoyance.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the redness and inflammation associated with irritated eyes.
• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, which can help calm and reduce redness in the eyes.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the eyes from damage and reduce redness caused by free radicals and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used in tinctures for red eyes due to their high concentration of alkaloids, particularly echinacoside, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia are used in tinctures for red eyes due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
• Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea angustifolia are used in tinctures for red eyes due to their high levels of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of dried echinacea angustifolia roots and flowers in a glass container.
2. Combine the plant material with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a separate container.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the liquid from the plant material using cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container.
5. Store the resulting tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid to preserve its potency.

5. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with red eyes because its natural anti-inflammatory properties effectively reduce swelling and irritation.

The tincture's active compounds, such as achillein and chamazulene, work to soothe and calm the delicate tissues of the eye, reducing redness and discomfort. Additionally, yarrow's antimicrobial properties help to combat underlying infections or irritants that may be contributing to red eyes.

As a result, herbal yarrow tinctures provide fast and effective relief from red, itchy, and irritated eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and redness associated with eye irritation.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, luteolin can help alleviate redness and discomfort in the eyes by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.
• Nootkatone: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, nootkatone can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Achillea millefolium are used to make tinctures for red eyes due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium are used to make tinctures for red eyes due to their antiseptic and soothing properties.
• Roots: The roots of Achillea millefolium are used to make tinctures for red eyes due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh flowering tops of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area.
3. Combine 1 part of the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with red eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that reduce inflammation and swelling in the blood vessels of the eye. This reduces redness and irritation, providing fast and effective relief from conjunctivitis, hay fever, or other allergic reactions.

Additionally, licorice tincture's soothing effects can calm irritated eyes, promoting a sense of comfort and clarity throughout the day.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: They help reduce inflammation and alleviate redness in the eyes by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Liquiritin: It acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps to soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and discomfort.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: This constituent has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and redness in the eyes, making it beneficial for treating conditions like conjunctivitis and eye strain.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are primarily used for tinctures for red eyes because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce redness and irritation in the eyes.
• Barks: Glycyrrhiza glabra barks are utilized for their medicinal properties, which include reducing swelling and inflammation around the eyes, thus alleviating redness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 500g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 750ml of vodka at 40% abv.
2. Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the root powder with vodka in a clean glass jar at a 1:2 ratio.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce puffiness and irritation.

The herbal remedy contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids and triterpenes that work to soothe and calm the delicate eye tissue. Additionally, dandelion's diuretic effects help to drain excess fluids from the conjunctiva, reducing swelling and redness.

As a result, dandelion tinctures can provide fast and effective relief for irritated eyes, making it an excellent natural remedy for addressing red eyes caused by allergies, fatigue, or environmental stressors.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to calm redness and irritation in the eyes.
• Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to its ability to soothe and reduce redness in the eyes.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and saponins, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate red, itchy eyes.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are rich in sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe red eyes.
• Flowers: The flowers contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with red eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the spring or fall season.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces and combine it with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio.
3. Store the mixture in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to small dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

8. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena tinctures helps with red eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated eye tissues.

The herb's antioxidant compounds also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, thereby alleviating discomfort and itchiness associated with redness. Additionally, lemon verbena has natural astringent properties that help to constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness, leaving eyes feeling refreshed and revitalized.

This natural remedy is an effective way to address red eye symptoms without harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Verbascoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside found in Verbena officinalis, Verbascoside has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and swelling associated with irritated eyes.
• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound, Rosmarinic acid exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by oxidative stress, reducing redness and discomfort.
• Volatile oils: The terpenic compounds present in Verbena officinalis, such as limonene and linalool, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm red eyes.
• Roots: They are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making them effective in treating red eyes caused by irritation.
• Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and calming effects, which can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried verbena officinalis roots and flowers in the early morning.
2. Chop 1 part of the harvested material into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking it every day.
4. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Label the bottle with the date and contents and store it in a cool dark place.

9. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with red eyes because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains mucilages that help to calm and lubricate the eyes, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with dryness or allergies. Additionally, marshmallow's natural antioxidants work to combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to redness and puffiness.

By applying a few drops of the tincture directly onto the affected area, users can experience fast and effective relief from red, itchy, and tired eyes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with red eyes by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the eyes, reducing inflammation and soothing irritated tissues.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, specifically kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling associated with eye irritation.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, such as arabinogalactan, help to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of damaged tissues, thus alleviating redness and discomfort in the eyes.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary part used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
• Leaves: They contain mucilages, which can soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and discomfort.
• Barks: They possess astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and promote healing, making them useful for treating red, irritated eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried root of althaea officinalis from a trusted supplier or wildcrafted source.
2. Chop 1 part of dried root into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Mix 1 part of chopped root with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.

10. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with red eyes because it contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm irritated eyes.

The active ingredients in purple coneflower, such as quercetin and luteolin, help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for reducing redness and puffiness.

Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help combat underlying infections or allergies that may be contributing to the redness, promoting a healthy and clear eye appearance.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Icariin: Icariin is a flavonoid glycoside that may help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health, thereby alleviating redness in the eyes.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid is a phenolic acid that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing redness and discomfort.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Rich in alkaloids and phenolic compounds, roots have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce redness and swelling.
• Leaves: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, leaves have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that soothe red, irritated eyes.
• Flowers: Containing a variety of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, flowers have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that help alleviate redness and itching in the eyes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried roots of echinacea purpurea in late summer or early fall when the plants are in bloom.
2. Clean and dry the roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure a good extraction process.
3. Chop 100g of dried roots or 250g of fresh roots into small pieces and combine with 75% vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with red eyes is a blend of Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) and Calendula (Calendula officinalis) tinctures.

Eyebright is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat infections. Calendula, on the other hand, soothes and calms the irritated eyes, reducing redness and promoting healing.

Mixing equal parts of these tinctures with water and applying them to a clean cloth can provide quick relief from red, itchy eyes.

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

Ailments similar to red eyes that are treated with herbal tinctures are conjunctivitis, pink eye, and other inflammatory conditions affecting the eyes or surrounding skin.

Herbal remedies like echinacea, goldenseal, and eyebright may help soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Other common issues treated with herbal tinctures include sinus infections, cold sores, and minor wounds.

These natural solutions often provide gentle, non-irritating relief without harsh chemicals or side effects.