By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Eye Strain
Herbal teas for eye strain are a natural remedy that helps alleviate discomfort and fatigue associated with prolonged screen time, reading, and other visual activities.
These teas are often made from calming herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and passionflower, which reduce eye tension and promote relaxation. Examples include lavender tea, which improves sleep quality, and eyebright tea, which reduces eye irritation.
By incorporating these teas into daily routines, individuals can alleviate eye strain and maintain optimal visual health, improving their overall quality of life and productivity.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for eye strain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Valeriana officinalis
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Matricaria chamomilla
- 9. Euphrasia officinalis
- 10. Achillea millefolium
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for eye strain?
- What ailments similar to eye strain are treated with herbal teas?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with eye strain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The flavonoids and carotenoids present in Calendula officinalis tea have been shown to reduce inflammation and protect the delicate tissues of the eyes, alleviating symptoms of eye strain such as dryness, redness, and blurred vision.
This natural remedy soothes and calms the eyes, promoting relaxation and reducing fatigue, making it an ideal solution for individuals who spend extensive periods in front of digital screens or engage in visually demanding activities.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with eye strain.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation in the eyes, which can contribute to eye strain by alleviating redness and discomfort.
- Carotenoids: Acting as antioxidants, carotenoids protect the eyes from oxidative stress, which can cause fatigue and strain, and may even help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help mitigate eye strain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the ocular region.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for eye strain.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate eye strain.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain similar flavonoids and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and soothe eye strain.
- Stems: They are used for their high content of saponins, which can help to reduce eye strain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eye strain.
- Harvest 20 to 30 fresh calendula flowers at their peak bloom and dry them completely.
- Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers with 1 cup of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the desired flavor is achieved.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids.
- Enjoy the calendula tea hot or cold within 24 hours of preparation.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with eye strain because it improves blood flow to the eyes.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba enhance the function of the blood vessels, allowing for better oxygen and nutrient delivery to the eyes. This increased blood flow reduces eye fatigue, improves visual acuity, and alleviates the discomfort associated with prolonged screen time or intense visual activities.
Regular consumption of Ginkgo biloba tea may help alleviate eye strain and promote overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with eye strain.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce eye strain and fatigue by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by prolonged screen time or other visual activities.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help to reduce eye strain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, as well as improving blood flow to the eyes.
- Ginkgolides: Ginkgolides, a type of diterpene, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce eye strain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, as well as improving blood flow to the eyes and reducing eye fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for eye strain.
- Leaves: The most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba for making teas due to its high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help alleviate eye strain.
- Seeds: Also used, as they contain flavonoids and bilobalide, which can contribute to the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba tea in reducing eye strain.
- Buds: Sometimes used, although less frequently than leaves, as they may possess some of the same active compounds, although in smaller quantities.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for eye strain.
- Gather 1 teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 cup of boiling water for brewing.
- Steep the ginkgo biloba leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the tea mixture using a fine-mesh sieve to remove any loose leaves and particles.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey to sweeten the tea to taste for a sweeter flavor.
- Drink the tea immediately while still warm for optimal nutrient absorption and benefits.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with eye strain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote relaxation.
The antioxidants present in Echinacea angustifolia help to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate dry, irritated eyes. Additionally, the calming effects of the tea can help to reduce eye strain caused by prolonged screen time, reading, or other activities that put a strain on the eyes.
This natural remedy provides a soothing solution for individuals experiencing eye fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with eye strain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate eye strain by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the healing of damaged tissues in the eyes.
- Alkaloids: Echinacoside has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and reduce the severity of eye strain caused by prolonged screen time or other visual activities.
- Caffeic acid derivatives: Caftaric acid has antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, reducing eye strain and promoting overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for eye strain.
- Roots: They are used because they contain a high concentration of alkaloids, such as echinacoside and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties to soothe eye strain.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce eye fatigue and discomfort.
- Barks: They are used because they contain phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate eye strain symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for eye strain.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of echinacea angustifolia roots and clean them thoroughly under running water.
- Dry the roots in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 95-105 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and mix 1 teaspoon of the chopped root with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the tea reaches your desired strength and flavor.
- Strain the tea into a cup and serve hot or chilled with or without honey depending on your preference.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with eye strain because of its calming and relaxing properties.
The tea's soothing effect on the nervous system can reduce stress and fatigue, which are common causes of eye strain. The antioxidants present in Lavandula angustifolia tea, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, can also help to reduce inflammation and promote better eye health.
This can lead to improved vision clarity and reduced eye fatigue after extended screen time or other visually demanding activities.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with eye strain.
- Linalool: This terpene acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and swelling associated with eye strain, and also has a calming effect to alleviate tension and promote relaxation.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, which can help reduce stress and promote better sleep quality, thereby alleviating eye strain caused by prolonged screen time.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation caused by prolonged computer use or other visual activities.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for eye strain.
- Flowers: Lavandula angustifolia flowers are commonly used to make teas for eye strain due to their calming and soothing properties.
- Leaves: Lavandula angustifolia leaves are used to make teas for eye strain as they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce eye fatigue.
- Stems: Lavandula angustifolia stems are used to make teas for eye strain due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for eye strain.
- Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for each 8-ounce serving of tea.
- Heat 1 cup of water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a saucepan.
- Steep the dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or cup.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature within 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with eye strain because its soothing properties promote relaxation and calmness.
The herb contains compounds like valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which may help reduce muscle tension and promote eye comfort. By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy blood flow, valerian teas can alleviate eye strain caused by prolonged screen time, reading, or other visual activities.
This natural remedy can help calm the eyes and provide relief from discomfort and fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with eye strain.
- Valerenic acid: This valerenic acid has sedative properties, which can help alleviate eye strain by relaxing the eyes and surrounding muscles, reducing fatigue and tension.
- Valeranone: Valeranone acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which in turn can help reduce eye strain caused by prolonged screen time or focus.
- Valeranols: Valeranols are known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and damage caused by blue light exposure, contributing to eye strain relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for eye strain.
- Roots: Used for their sedative properties to relax the eyes and relieve eye strain.
- Leaves: Used for their antioxidant properties to reduce inflammation and soothe the eyes.
- Stems: Used for their adaptogenic properties to help the body adapt to stress and reduce eye fatigue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for eye strain.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of dried valeriana officinalis roots from a trusted supplier or your garden.
- Rinse the valeriana officinalis roots with cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
- Chop the valeriana officinalis roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep one teaspoon of the chopped valeriana officinalis roots in one cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the valeriana officinalis tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal infusion immediately.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, teas helps with eye strain because it contains hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds help reduce eye fatigue, swelling, and irritation caused by prolonged screen time or other eye-straining activities. By soothing and protecting the eyes, Hypericum perforatum teas promote relaxation and reduce discomfort, allowing users to focus and work more comfortably.
It also supports overall eye health and may even help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with eye strain.
- Hyperforin: This terpene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce eye strain by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by prolonged screen time or other factors.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate eye strain by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage to the eyes, promoting overall eye health and comfort.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce eye strain by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage caused by UV radiation and other environmental factors.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for eye strain.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and alkaloids, which help to reduce inflammation and promote eye health.
- Flowers: High in anthocyanins and flavonoids, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe eye strain.
- Roots: Containing hypericin and hyperforin, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate eye strain and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for eye strain.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum leaves and flowers or 10-20 grams of dried material in late summer.
- Dry the harvested material in a warm dark place for 7-10 days to remove excess moisture.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the powdered material in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving while hot or at room temperature.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with eye strain because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The flavonoids present in dandelion tea, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the eyes. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help protect the eyes from oxidative stress caused by prolonged screen time or other eye-straining activities. This can help alleviate symptoms of eye strain and promote overall eye health.
Regular consumption may also contribute to long-term eye protection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with eye strain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, particularly chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce eye strain by decreasing inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have antioxidant properties that can neutralize free radicals and protect the eyes from oxidative stress, potentially alleviating eye strain caused by prolonged screen time or other visual tasks.
- Saponins: These saponins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help mitigate eye strain by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for eye strain.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to soothe eye strain.
- Flowers: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce eye fatigue.
- Stems: Employed for their potential to reduce eye strain by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for eye strain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh leaves from mature plants in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Rinse the leaves with cool water to remove dirt and debris.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before consuming within 30 minutes.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with eye strain because of its soothing and calming properties.
The flavonoids and apigenin in chamomile tea have a calming effect on the eyes and reduce inflammation, alleviating the discomfort associated with eye strain. Chamomile tea also helps to relax the muscles around the eyes, reducing tension and fatigue.
This natural remedy promotes relaxation, reduces eye fatigue, and helps to alleviate the symptoms of eye strain, providing a much-needed break for the eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with eye strain.
- Apigenin: An apigenin flavonoid that helps relax the eye muscles, reducing fatigue and strain associated with prolonged screen time or reading.
- Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated eyes caused by eye strain.
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by prolonged use of digital devices.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for eye strain.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their high content of apigenin, a flavonoid that can help relax the muscles around the eyes.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than flowers, leaves are still used in some teas to contribute to the overall relaxing and soothing effects.
- Seeds: Although seeds are not as commonly used as flowers, they are sometimes used to make teas due to their high oil content and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eye strain.
- Harvest 20-30 dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for two hours.
- Measure one teaspoon of dried flowers and steep them in one cup of boiling water for five minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool and drink immediately to enjoy the full benefits of the herbal tea.
9. Euphrasia officinalis
Euphrasia officinalis, also known as eyebright, teas helps with eye strain because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's bioflavonoids and phenolic acids work to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, which can be caused by prolonged screen time or other visual demands. Eyebright tea's soothing and cooling effects can help to calm and relax the eyes, reducing redness and discomfort associated with eye strain.
This herbal remedy has been traditionally used to support eye health and alleviate symptoms of eye fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis teas that help with eye strain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate eye strain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the healing of damaged eye tissues.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Euphrasia officinalis, such as rutin and quercetin, possess potent antioxidant properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of eye strain and related conditions.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing the symptoms of eye strain and promoting overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make teas for eye strain.
- Leaves: They are used for their medicinal properties, particularly for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to soothe eye strain.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of iridoid glycosides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, beneficial for eye health.
- Stems: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, helping to alleviate eye strain and promote overall eye health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for eye strain.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning or early afternoon.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 2-3 hours or until it crumbles easily.
- Grind the dried euphrasia officinalis into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of the powdered plant material for a single serving and store it in an airtight container.
- Steep the powdered euphrasia officinalis in 250-300 milliliters of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to make a tea.
10. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with eye strain because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids soothe and calm the eyes, reducing irritation and fatigue. The antispasmodic properties of yarrow also help to relax the muscles around the eyes, alleviating tension and promoting relaxation. By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Achillea millefolium teas can provide relief from eye strain, helping to improve vision and overall eye health.
This natural remedy can be a valuable tool for those who spend long hours in front of screens.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with eye strain.
- Chlorogenic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps alleviate eye strain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect the eyes from damage caused by UV radiation and other environmental stressors that contribute to eye strain.
- Nepetalactone: A terpenoid that has anti-inflammatory and calming effects, which can help to soothe and relax the eye muscles, reducing eye strain and promoting relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for eye strain.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help reduce eye strain caused by inflammation.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones, which may help reduce eye fatigue and promote relaxation.
- Roots: They are a source of bitter compounds, which may help stimulate the eyes and reduce eye strain by improving focus and attention.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for eye strain.
- Harvest the achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at low heat for 2 hours or until completely dry.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of the dried plant material and steep it in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids immediately.
- Allow the tea to cool for 10 minutes before consumption for optimal flavor and benefits.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for eye strain?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with eye strain is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root.
Peppermint tea soothes and cools the eyes, while chamomile tea calms and relaxes the eye muscles. Licorice root tea, rich in antioxidants, helps reduce inflammation and promotes overall eye health. Drinking this combination of teas can help alleviate eye strain, improve vision, and reduce fatigue.
It's recommended to steep the tea for 5-7 minutes and drink it 2-3 times a day for optimal results.
What ailments similar to eye strain are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to eye strain that are treated with herbal teas are headaches, fatigue, and dry eyes.
Herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and lemon balm are commonly used in teas to soothe irritated eyes and provide relief from tension headaches and migraines.
Other herbs such as passionflower and valerian root help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to eye strain and other related symptoms.