10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Eye Strain
Herbal tinctures for eye strain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants and herbs that have natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties.
They help alleviate eye strain by reducing redness, itching, and fatigue associated with prolonged screen time, reading, or other visual activities. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in combating eye strain include Ginkgo biloba, which improves blood flow to the eyes, and Eyebright, which reduces inflammation and irritation.
By using these tinctures, individuals can improve their overall eye health, reduce eye fatigue, and enjoy improved focus and vision throughout the day.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for eye strain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with eye strain because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, antioxidants, and terpenes that work together to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes.
The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated eyes, while its antioxidant activity helps to protect against damage caused by blue light exposure and digital fatigue.
This natural remedy can provide relief from eye strain and promote overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Ginkgolides: These bioactive lignans help reduce eye strain by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and serotonin, which can contribute to eye fatigue and discomfort.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess potent antioxidant properties, which help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by prolonged screen time, reducing eye strain and discomfort.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce eye strain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and free radicals that can damage the eyes and surrounding tissues.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to improve blood flow to the eyes and reduce eye strain.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds contain bilobalide, a compound that may help improve eye health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help improve blood flow to the eyes and alleviate eye strain.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for eye strain.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully mature and dry.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their potency and flavor.
- Combine 100 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow the herbs to infuse into the solvent.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Vaccinium myrtillus
Blueberry tinctures helps with eye strain because of its unique combination of antioxidants and flavonoids.
These compounds work together to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, which can contribute to fatigue, dryness, and discomfort caused by prolonged screen time or other visual activities. The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and calm the eyes, providing relief from irritation and redness.
By supporting eye health, blueberry tinctures can help to alleviate eye strain and promote overall visual well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, alleviating eye strain caused by prolonged screen time or intense visual activities.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce eye fatigue and discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting relaxation in the eye muscles.
- Delphinidin: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, delphinidin helps protect the eyes from damage caused by blue light exposure, reducing eye strain and promoting overall eye health.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Leaves: They are rich in anthocyanins, which may help reduce eye strain by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress.
- Fruits (also known as bilberries): The anthocyanins present in the fruits may help alleviate eye strain by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the eyes.
- Buds: The antioxidants in the buds may help protect the eyes from oxidative damage, contributing to relief from eye strain.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for eye strain.
- Harvest 1 kg of fresh vaccinium myrtillus berries in the summer months when they are ripe and fully colored.
- Dry the vaccinium myrtillus berries in a warm place at 40°c for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Weigh out 1 part of the dried vaccinium myrtillus berries and add 2 parts of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
3. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright tinctures helps with eye strain because it possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated eyes.
The herbal extract reduces redness, itchiness, and fatigue caused by prolonged screen time, reading, or other visual activities. Eyebright's antimicrobial agents also help to remove impurities and toxins from the eyes, promoting healthy vision and reducing the risk of infections.
Additionally, eyebright tinctures can help to improve tear quality and reduce dryness, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating eye strain and promoting overall ocular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Phenolic acids: They help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can contribute to eye strain and fatigue.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of eye strain.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the eyes, reducing eye strain and promoting relaxation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Leaves: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Flowers: They contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to their effectiveness in alleviating eye strain.
- Stems: They are used due to their flavonoid content, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation in the eyes and surrounding areas.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for eye strain.
- Harvest fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their highest potency level.
- Dry the collected plant material in a warm area with good air circulation for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 500 grams of dried euphrasia officinalis with 75 percent ethanol in a ratio of 1:3 by weight.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a dark glass container with a lid at room temperature.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and transfer it to a clean dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Vitis vinifera
Grape tinctures helps with eye strain because it contains a blend of potent herbs that work synergistically to reduce fatigue, improve circulation, and relax ocular muscles.
The anti-inflammatory properties of grape tincture help to alleviate dryness and irritation caused by prolonged screen time or reading, while its antioxidant-rich compounds neutralize free radicals that can damage the eyes.
By soothing and nourishing the eyes, herbal grape tinctures provide natural relief from eye strain, promoting comfortable vision and a sense of clarity and focus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitis vinifera tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Quercetin: A powerful flavonoid antioxidant that helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, thus alleviating eye strain caused by prolonged screen time or exposure to blue light.
- Resveratrol: A stilbenoid polyphenol that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the eyes from strain, dryness, and damage.
- Anthocyanins: A group of powerful antioxidants responsible for the deep red and purple color of Vitis vinifera, which can help to protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote overall eye health.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of grape used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce eye fatigue and inflammation.
- Seeds: They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce eye strain and inflammation.
- Fruits: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, particularly resveratrol, which can help to reduce eye fatigue and inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic grape for eye strain.
- Harvest vitis vinifera leaves and flowers at peak potency during the morning to capture optimal oil content.
- Dry the vitis vinifera plant material in a well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Combine 250 grams of dried vitis vinifera plant material with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar regularly to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then bottle the tincture in dark glass containers.
5. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with eye strain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and irritation in the eyes.
The bioactive compound curcumin, found in turmeric, has been shown to alleviate dryness, itchiness, and blurred vision caused by extended screen time or other environmental factors. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help protect the delicate eye tissues from oxidative stress, promoting overall ocular health and reducing the likelihood of chronic eye problems.
As a result, herbal turmeric tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for relieving eye strain and promoting healthy vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Curcumin: It helps reduce eye strain by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and oxidative stress, which contribute to eye fatigue and discomfort.
- Demethoxycurcumin: It helps alleviate eye strain by suppressing inflammation and modulating the activity of inflammatory pathways that contribute to eye strain and discomfort.
- Bis-demethoxycurcumin: It helps reduce eye strain by exhibiting potent antioxidant properties, which protect the eyes from oxidative damage and inflammation caused by prolonged screen time or other eye-straining activities.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Rhyzomes: The part of the Curcuma longa plant that contains high levels of curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it effective in reducing eye strain.
- Roots: The roots of the Curcuma longa plant contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and alleviate eye strain.
- Buds: The buds of the Curcuma longa plant contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eye strain and promote eye health.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for eye strain.
- Harvest the mature turmeric rhizomes with clean scissors and dry them thoroughly in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks.
- Chop the dried turmeric rhizomes into small pieces and add them to a glass jar with a lid in a ratio of 1 part turmeric to 2 parts high-proof vodka.
- Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark cupboard for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and press the solids to extract more liquid.
- Store the finished turmeric tincture in a cool dark cupboard and use it within 2 years or as directed by a healthcare professional.
6. Crocus sativus
Saffron tinctures helps with eye strain because it contains a unique combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and carotenoids that work together to soothe and relax the eyes.
The bioactive compound crocin in saffron has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina, which can contribute to eye strain and fatigue caused by prolonged screen time or reading.
Regular use of herbal saffron tinctures may help alleviate symptoms such as dryness, itchiness, and blurred vision associated with eye strain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crocus sativus tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Crocin: Crocin is a type of carotenoid responsible for saffron's vibrant color and has potent antioxidant properties. It may help reduce eye strain by neutralizing free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to eye fatigue.
- Crocetin: Crocetin is a carotenoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate eye strain by reducing inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
- Safranal: Safranal is a volatile oil with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help alleviate eye strain by reducing pain and inflammation associated with prolonged screen time or eye fatigue.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of saffron used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high concentration of crocin and crocetin, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for eye health.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes contain a higher concentration of essential oils, including borneol and borneol acetate, which have been traditionally used to treat eye strain and promote relaxation.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their content of fatty acids and antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and promote eye health, reducing eye strain.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saffron for eye strain.
- Harvest 100g of dried crocus sativus flowers and leaves for tincture preparation on a dry sunny day.
- Grind the 100g of dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 100g of the ground material with 500ml of 25% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2 weeks with occasional shaking of the jar.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
7. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian tinctures helps with eye strain because they promote relaxation and reduce inflammation in the eyes.
The soothing properties of valerian root calm irritated eyes, while its antioxidant compounds help to combat oxidative stress that can contribute to fatigue and discomfort. Additionally, valerian's ability to regulate sleep patterns ensures that you're well-rested and less prone to digital eye strain caused by prolonged screen time.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, herbal valerian tinctures provide natural relief from eye strain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Valerenic acid: It helps with eye strain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate eye fatigue and discomfort.
- Valeranone: It acts as an anxiolytic, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce stress, which can contribute to eye strain and blurred vision.
- Isovaleric acid amide: It has a sedative effect, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, which can help alleviate eye strain and promote more comfortable vision.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Roots: Valerian root is a primary ingredient due to its high content of valerenic acids and valeranone, which have been found to have a sedative effect on the eyes.
- Leaves: Valerian leaves contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help alleviate eye strain by reducing oxidative stress.
- Seeds: Valerian seeds have been used traditionally in herbal medicine for their potential to calm the nervous system, which may help alleviate eye strain and related symptoms.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for eye strain.
- Harvest 100g of valeriana officinalis roots and stems in the morning after the dew has dried completely.
- Dry the harvested valeriana officinalis plant material in a warm dark place for 2-3 weeks.
- Combine the dried valeriana officinalis with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar every few days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids and label the tincture.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with eye strain because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
When applied topically to the eyes, chamomile tincture can help reduce redness, itching, and swelling caused by prolonged screen time or fatigue. The herb's soothing effects can also calm dry, irritated eyes and improve overall visual comfort. Additionally, chamomile's gentle astringent properties can help constrict blood vessels in the eyes, reducing puffiness and dark circles.
As a result, regular use of herbal chamomile tinctures can provide long-lasting relief from eye strain and promote healthy, comfortable vision.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a natural antispasmodic, which helps to relax eye muscles and reduce eye strain.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce eye inflammation and protect the eyes from oxidative damage caused by prolonged screen use.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm and moisturize the eyes, reducing eye strain and irritation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Flowers: They are rich in apigenin, a flavonoid that has been shown to reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality.
- Seeds: They contain a high amount of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate eye strain.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, similar to the seeds, which can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making them useful for eye strain relief.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eye strain.
- Harvest 1 cup of matricaria chamomilla flowers when in full bloom and dry them thoroughly for storage.
- Chop the dried flowers into small pieces using scissors or a sharp knife to release their potency.
- Combine the chopped flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with eye strain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to have antioxidant effects, which can protect the eyes from damage caused by blue light and other environmental stressors. Additionally, licorice tinctures can help relax the muscles around the eyes, reducing tension and fatigue that can contribute to eye strain.
By addressing these underlying causes, herbal licorice tinctures can provide natural relief for individuals experiencing eye strain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce eye strain caused by inflammation.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate eye strain caused by oxidative stress.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures may help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and inflammation, thereby reducing eye strain.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate eye strain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and reduce eye strain.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain flavonoids and phenolic acids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eye strain and promote eye health.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for eye strain.
- Harvest 100g of dried roots in autumn when mature and dry them completely for 2 weeks.
- Crush the dried roots into fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Combine 100g of the powdered roots with 500ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place and shake it for 2 weeks every 2 days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then bottle the tincture for 6 months.
10. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn tinctures helps with eye strain because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins.
These potent antioxidants help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes, which can contribute to digital eye fatigue.
By soothing and protecting the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes, hawthorn tinctures promote healthy vision and alleviate discomfort associated with prolonged screen use.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with eye strain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, in Crataegus monogyna tinctures may help alleviate eye strain due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic and ferulic acids, in Crataegus monogyna tinctures may help with eye strain by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin found in Crataegus monogyna tinctures, may help alleviate eye strain due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the eyes and promote overall eye health.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for eye strain.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce eye strain caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Fruits: Used to make tinctures due to their high antioxidant content, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and reduce eye strain.
- Buds: Used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds which can help reduce eye strain by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for eye strain.
- Harvest 250g of fresh crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning in late summer.
- Chop the fresh plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it well for 2 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eye strain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with eye strain is a blend of ginkgo biloba, eyebright, and passionflower.
Ginkgo biloba improves blood flow to the eyes, reducing fatigue and strain. Eyebright tincture reduces inflammation and soothes the eyes, while passionflower calms the nervous system, alleviating tension and stress that contribute to eye strain.
This balanced blend can be used topically or taken orally to provide relief from digital eye fatigue and promote overall eye health.