By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Eye Pain
Herbal decoctions for eye pain are a natural remedy that combines the healing properties of herbs to alleviate discomfort, dryness, and irritation in the eyes.
These decoctions help by soothing inflamed tissues, reducing redness, and promoting healthy tear production. Examples include Eyebright tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and Goldenrod tea, which helps to reduce swelling.
By using these herbal decoctions, individuals can enjoy improved vision, reduced eye strain, and a significant reduction in discomfort, allowing them to live their lives with greater ease and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for eye pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Euphrasia officinalis
- 5. Ginkgo biloba
- 6. Hydrastis canadensis
- 7. Lavandula angustifolia
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Mentha x piperita
- 10. Aspalathus linearis
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for eye pain?
- What ailments similar to eye pain are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower decoctions helps with eye pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can soothe irritated eyes.
The decoction's flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, help reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyelids and conjunctiva, providing relief from dryness, itchiness, and redness.
Additionally, the decoction's antioxidant compounds neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and eye fatigue, promoting healthy vision and reducing discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate eye pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Alkylamides: These constituents exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, alleviating pain and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they contain a high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they possess flavonoids and alkylamides that help to reduce inflammation and soothe eye discomfort.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they contain a mixture of phenolic acids and flavonoids that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for eye pain.
- Harvest mature echinacea purpurea roots and flowers in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripened.
- Chop the echinacea purpurea roots and flowers into smaller pieces to ensure they release their medicinal properties efficiently.
- Combine 1 part dried echinacea purpurea root and 2 parts dried echinacea purpurea flowers in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the echinacea purpurea mixture in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release its medicinal compounds.
- Strain and discard the solids then store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with eye pain because of its unique composition, which includes anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin.
These bioactive molecules help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes, providing relief from discomfort and pressure. The aloe's antioxidant properties also help to protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, further contributing to its pain-relieving effects.
As a result, herbal aloe decoctions can provide effective natural relief for individuals suffering from eye strain, dryness, or irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes, alleviating pain caused by conditions like conjunctivitis or dry eyes.
- Saponins: These natural compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing pain associated with conditions like blepharitis or keratitis.
- Glucomannan: This soluble fiber has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help reduce swelling and ease eye pain caused by conditions like conjunctivitis or uveitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Leaves: They are the most widely used part due to their high gel content, which is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate eye pain and swelling.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera contain a higher concentration of the anti-inflammatory compound aloin, which is often used to treat eye irritations and pain.
- Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are sometimes used to make decoctions for eye pain due to their rich content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe eye irritations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eye pain.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the herbal aloe vera to ensure cleanliness.
- Select fresh aloe vera leaves with thick green skin and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
- Combine 20-30 grams of the aloe vera pieces with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to discard the solids.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with eye pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the eyes.
The decoction's antioxidant properties also help to protect the eyes from further damage by neutralizing free radicals. Additionally, pot marigold contains flavonoids that have been shown to improve blood circulation in the eyes, reducing pressure and promoting healthy vision.
By soothing and calming the eyes, pot marigold decoctions provide natural relief from eye pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and redness in the eyes, alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Naphthoquinones: This constituent exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the eyes from infections and irritations that may cause pain.
- Flavonoids: As a potent anti-inflammatory agent, Quercetin can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part of Calendula officinalis for eye pain because of their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce eye pain and inflammation.
- Roots: The roots are sometimes used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, although they are less commonly used than the flowers and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye pain.
- Harvest approximately 1/4 cup of dried calendula officinalis flowers from a trusted herbal source.
- Combine the dried flowers with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass bowl.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the flowers to infuse into the water completely.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing for later use.
4. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright decoctions helps with eye pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, penetrate the tear film and conjunctiva to reduce swelling and redness, alleviating discomfort and pressure in the eyes.
Additionally, eyebright's ability to stimulate tear production helps to flush out irritants and toxins that can contribute to eye pain, promoting a healthy and balanced ocular environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly euphrasin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce eye inflammation and prevent infections that may contribute to eye pain.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause eye pain.
- Terpenes: These volatile compounds possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Euphrasia officinalis are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they are rich in bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they contain flavonoids and alkaloids that help reduce eye inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Euphrasia officinalis are used to make decoctions for eye pain because they contain triterpenoid saponins with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for eye pain.
- Gather 1-2 grams of dried euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves for every 100 milliliters of water.
- Boil 100 milliliters of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes over high heat.
- Add the dried euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves to the boiling water.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with eye pain because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.
The decoction's flavonoids, terpenes, and saponins work together to reduce inflammation and relax the ocular muscles, alleviating tension and discomfort in the eyes. Additionally, the decoction's anti-oxidant properties help protect the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes from damage caused by oxidative stress, promoting healthy vision and reducing eye strain.
As a result, maidenhair tree decoctions provide natural relief from eye pain, itchiness, and dryness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help alleviate eye pain by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the eyes, thus alleviating conditions such as conjunctivitis and dry eyes.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone constituent has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the eyes from damage, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate conditions such as eye strain and photophobia.
- Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, thus alleviating conditions such as dry eye syndrome and reducing eye fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high antioxidant and flavonoid content, which may help alleviate eye inflammation and pain.
- Seeds: Seeds are used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe eye irritation and reduce pain.
- Barks: Barks are also used due to their reported ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which may help alleviate eye pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for eye pain.
- Gather 120-240 grams of ginkgo biloba leaves and stems from a trusted supplier.
- Chop the ginkgo biloba leaves and stems into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped ginkgo biloba with 2 liters of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
6. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal decoctions helps with eye pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The berberine alkaloids present in goldenseal work to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the eyes, providing quick relief from dryness, itchiness, and redness. Additionally, goldenseal's antibacterial properties help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to eye pain.
As a result, goldenseal decoctions can effectively soothe and calm irritated eyes, promoting optimal vision and overall ocular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Hydrastis canadensis, particularly berberine and hydrastine, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate eye pain by reducing inflammation and preventing infections in the eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids such as quercetin in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation that may be causing eye pain.
- Saponins: Saponins present in Hydrastis canadensis have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help relieve eye pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain-sensing pathways in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate eye pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their berberine content, which is thought to contribute to their potential in soothing eye pain and reducing inflammation.
- Barks: The barks are another part used for their berberine content, although in smaller quantities compared to the roots and leaves, they may still provide some relief from eye pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for eye pain.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried root of hydrastis canadensis from a trusted supplier or your own garden.
- Crush the dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
- Weigh 30-60 grams of the root powder and add it to 1 liter of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 3-5 minutes then strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and discard any unused portion.
7. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with eye pain because it possesses a calming and soothing effect on the eyes.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and irritation, while its antispasmodic properties ease muscle tension and discomfort. Additionally, the decoction's natural sedative properties promote relaxation and calmness, which can help to alleviate stress-related eye strain and headaches.
Overall, English lavender decoctions provide a natural and gentle remedy for alleviating eye pain and promoting overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Linalool: This terpene helps with eye pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate pressure and discomfort associated with eye conditions.
- Linalyl acetate: This ester also contributes to the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of Lavandula angustifolia decoctions, making it beneficial for soothing eye pain.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce eye pain and discomfort caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Leaves: Their essential oils and flavonoids help reduce inflammation and soothe eye discomfort.
- Flowers: Their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties ease eye strain and pain.
- Buds: Similar to leaves and flowers, the buds contain essential oils that help calm and soothe eye irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for eye pain.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak flowering stage for optimal potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested flowers to prevent contamination and spoilage within 24 hours.
- Combine the dried flowers with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container to create a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes and then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and consume 250-500 milliliters as needed.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with eye pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
The decoction's soothing and calming effects also help to alleviate itchiness and discomfort associated with dry or irritated eyes.
Additionally, marshmallow's gentle and non-irritating nature allows it to ease the tension and pressure that can cause eye pain, making it a natural and effective remedy for relieving eye discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes, alleviating pain associated with conditions like conjunctivitis or blepharitis.
- Mucilages: Mucilages, a type of glycoside, help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the eyes, providing relief from pain, redness, and irritation caused by dryness or infections.
- Flavonoids: As powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, flavonoids help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, which can contribute to pain and discomfort in conditions like uveitis or iritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the eyes.
- Leaves: They are also used to make decoctions for eye pain, as they contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis contain a small amount of mucilage and are sometimes used in combination with the roots and leaves to make a more potent eye pain remedy.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for eye pain.
- Harvest fresh or dried roots of the plant in the spring or summer when in full leaf.
- Clean the roots by gently brushing away any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried root or 2 teaspoons of fresh root per 1 cup of water.
- Combine the measured root with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan or teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain the liquid before serving or storing.
9. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with eye pain because its active compound, menthol, has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that provide relief from ocular discomfort.
When consumed as a warm tea, peppermint's soothing effects are believed to reduce tension and ease pressure in the eyes, alleviating symptoms such as dryness, itchiness, and burning sensations.
Additionally, peppermint's ability to improve blood circulation may help increase oxygen supply to the eyes, promoting overall eye health and reducing pain associated with conditions like conjunctivitis or blepharitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Menthol: Menthol helps with eye pain by providing a cooling effect that numbs the area, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid helps with eye pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area.
- Β-caryophyllene: β-Caryophyllene helps with eye pain by acting as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and discomfort associated with eye inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of menthol, which has a cooling effect that can help alleviate eye pain.
- Roots: They are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce eye inflammation and prevent infections.
- Stems: They contain menthol and other compounds that can help numb the area around the eye, providing relief from pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for eye pain.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning for optimal oil content.
- Chop the fresh herbs into small pieces to release their natural oils and flavors quickly.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped herbs in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to extract active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids completely.
- Store the herbal decoction in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
10. Aspalathus linearis
Rooibos decoctions helps with eye pain because of its unique composition.
The antioxidants and flavonoids present in rooibos tea work synergistically to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated eyes. The caffeine-free brew also calms the nervous system, alleviating tension-related headaches and migraines that often manifest as eye pain.
Additionally, rooibos' anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness and redness, providing rapid relief from uncomfortable eye strain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aspalathus linearis decoctions that help with eye pain.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with eye pain, potentially alleviating symptoms such as redness and swelling.
- Aspalathin: Aspalathin is a unique phenolic compound found in Aspalathus linearis. It is thought to help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to eye pain and discomfort.
- Catechins: Catechins, specifically epicatechin, are a type of polyphenol that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, potentially alleviating eye pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rooibos used to make decoctions for eye pain.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that help in reducing inflammation and pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing eye pain and reducing swelling.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by eye conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos for eye pain.
- Harvest aspalathus linearis leaves and stems for decoction preparation at a ratio of 1:5.
- Rinse the harvested plant material in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water for 5 minutes.
- Combine 5 grams of the aspalathus linearis material with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then reduce heat to a simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the liquid extract.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for eye pain?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with eye pain is a blend of feverfew, eyebright, and chamomile.
Feverfew's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling, while eyebright's soothing effects calm irritated eyes. Chamomile's calming properties further ease tension and promote relaxation, which can contribute to eye pain relief.
To make this blend, steep 1 teaspoon of dried feverfew, 1 teaspoon of dried eyebright, and 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes, then strain and use as an eye wash.
What ailments similar to eye pain are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to eye pain that are treated with herbal decoctions are various conditions affecting the head, face, and neck.
These include headaches, migraines, sinusitis, earaches, and facial neuralgia. Herbal decoctions made from ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and peppermint can help alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and relieving pain.
They can also be used to treat other conditions like toothache and jaw pain.