By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Sore Eyes
Herbal tinctures for sore eyes are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which can provide natural relief from dry, irritated, or inflamed eyes.
These tinctures work by soothing and calming the eyes, reducing redness and discomfort, and promoting healthy tear production. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with sore eyes include calendula, chamomile, and eyebright, which can be dropped directly onto the affected eye to provide instant relief.
This can significantly improve daily life, allowing people to enjoy their usual activities without the discomfort and distraction caused by sore eyes.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for sore eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Echinacea purpurea
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Euphrasia officinalis
- 5. Matricaria chamomilla
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Ginkgo biloba
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Stachys byzantina
- 10. Verbena officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for sore eyes?
- What ailments similar to sore eyes are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The aloe vera plant contains a number of beneficial compounds, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, that can help to reduce redness and irritation in the eyes.
When used as an herbal tincture, these compounds are able to penetrate deeply into the affected area, providing fast and effective relief from sore eyes caused by dryness, fatigue, or minor injuries.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Glucomannans: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and calm irritated eyes by forming a protective barrier and reducing inflammation.
- Aloin: A natural anthraquinone compound, aloin helps reduce eye inflammation and pain by acting as a natural anti-inflammatory and soothing agent.
- Vitamins a and e: These antioxidant vitamins help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote healing by neutralizing free radicals and supporting eye tissue health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most used part, as they contain the highest concentration of aloe vera's medicinal compounds, including aloin and aloe-emodin, which help soothe and calm sore eyes.
- Stems: The stems contain a similar concentration of medicinal compounds as the leaves, making them a popular alternative for sore eye treatments.
- Buds: The buds are sometimes used in combination with the leaves or stems to create a tincture that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in sore eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for sore eyes.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh aloe vera gel from 2-3 mature plants to use for the tincture.
- Combine the aloe vera gel with 2 cups of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow the mixture to macerate.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Allow the tincture to mature for an additional 2 weeks before using it as desired.
2. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with sore eyes because it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated eyes.
The herb, also known as Echinacea purpurea, has been used for centuries to treat various eye issues, including conjunctivitis and dry eye syndrome.
When applied topically or taken orally, the tincture's antioxidants and flavonoids work together to reduce redness, itchiness, and swelling, providing quick relief from sore eyes and promoting overall eye health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate soreness in the eyes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation and combat infections that may be contributing to sore eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Roots: The roots are used for their rich content of polysaccharides and phenolic compounds, which have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for sore eyes.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves with scissors or pinch them off by hand.
- Clean the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with water to remove dirt and debris.
- Use a glass jar or container to combine 1 part fresh echinacea purpurea plant material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka or other high-proof spirit.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature and infuse.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from the plant material.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with sore eyes because it contains flavonoids, antioxidants, and carotenoids that work synergistically to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.
The anti-inflammatory properties of pot marigold help to calm redness and itching, while its antioxidant compounds protect the delicate eye tissues from damage caused by free radicals.
As a result, pot marigold tinctures provide natural relief for sore eyes, making it an effective remedy for dry eyes, conjunctivitis, and other eye irritations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and redness associated with sore eyes.
- Carotenoids: These antioxidants protect the eyes from oxidative stress and promote eye health, reducing the severity of sore eyes.
- Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate pain, itching, and irritation associated with sore eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Flowers: Used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds.
- Leaves: Utilized in tinctures for sore eyes because they contain soothing properties that help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: Employed in tinctures to address sore eyes, as they contain a range of bioactive compounds that can help calm and protect the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for sore eyes.
- Gather 1 cup of dried calendula officinalis flowers and 2 cups of 80 proof vodka for tincture.
- Combine the dried flowers and vodka in a clean glass jar with a lid tightly.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
4. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright tinctures helps with sore eyes because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that effectively soothe and calm irritated eyes.
The herb's natural compounds, such as anthraglycosides and flavonoids, work to reduce redness, itchiness, and discomfort associated with dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, and conjunctivitis. By applying a few drops of eyebright tincture to the affected area, it helps to clear mucus and debris, promoting healthy tear flow and restoring visual clarity.
As a result, eyebright tinctures provide fast and effective relief for sore eyes, allowing individuals to return to their normal activities with ease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the eyes.
- Alkaloids: As a strong antioxidant, rosmarinic acid helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, soothing sore eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Euphrasia officinalis are commonly used to make tinctures for sore eyes because they contain bioactive compounds that help soothe and calm the eye.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for sore eyes because they possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in reducing eye inflammation and promoting healing.
- Stems: The stems of Euphrasia officinalis are used to make tinctures for sore eyes because they contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce swelling and promote the healing of eye tissues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for sore eyes.
- Harvest the fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning when the dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested euphrasia officinalis parts in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks or until crispy.
- Combine 1 part euphrasia officinalis with 2 parts 80% ethanol in a clean glass container to create the tincture.
- Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional gentle shaking to extract the properties.
- Strain the euphrasia officinalis tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated tissues.
The herb's flavonoids, apigenin, and luteolin, work together to reduce redness and swelling, alleviating discomfort and itchiness. As a natural antihistamine, chamomile also relieves itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies or dryness.
Additionally, its gentle, non-irritating nature makes it an excellent choice for sensitive eyes, providing quick and effective relief from soreness and irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in sore eyes.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, providing relief from irritation and redness in sore eyes.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the eyes from damage and promote healing in sore eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their high concentration of chamazulene and apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate sore eye symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes, although they may not be as potent as the flowers.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties, although they are less commonly used than flowers or leaves for sore eye tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for sore eyes.
- Harvest 100g of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers on a dry day when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a dark place for 7 to 10 days at room temperature.
- Steep 50g of dried matricilla chamomilla flowers in 500ml of vodka 40% abv for 14 days.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks before using it for medicinal purposes.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbal remedy contains linalool, a natural compound that soothes redness and irritation in the eyes. When used topically, it reduces swelling and relieves discomfort associated with dry eyes, conjunctivitis, or other eye irritations. Additionally, lavender's gentle sedative effect can help to relax tense eye muscles, promoting better eye health and reducing the risk of further strain.
As a result, English lavender tinctures provide fast and effective relief for sore, itchy, or tired eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene present in Lavandula angustifolia, helps to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated eyes, providing relief from soreness and discomfort.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate, another terpene found in the herb, has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to calm and relax the eye muscles, alleviating soreness and tension.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound present in Lavandula angustifolia, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce swelling, ease pain, and protect the eyes from further damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their high concentration of camphor and linalool, which have soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their content of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for sore eyes.
- Harvest 1 part of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the flowers completely in a well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks or until they are completely brittle.
- Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar 1-2 times a day.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins present in the tree's leaves have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain, providing fast relief from eye irritations. Additionally, the antioxidants in maidenhair tree help to protect the delicate tissues of the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy and comfortable vision experience.
Its soothing properties also aid in reducing redness and itching, making it an effective natural remedy for sore eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the eyes, alleviating soreness and discomfort.
- Bilobalide: As a neuroprotective compound, bilobalide helps protect the optic nerve and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to eye strain and soreness.
- Ginkgolides: These diterpene trilactones have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the eyes, while also improving blood flow to promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for soothing sore eyes.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain ginkgolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce redness and irritation in the eyes.
- Barks: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids similar to the leaves, which can help soothe and protect the eyes from irritation and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for sore eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a reputable source in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces to release their active compounds and increase their surface area.
- Combine the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio by weight for a 1000ml tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass container for 4-6 weeks in a cool dry place, shaking it daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with sore eyes because they contain bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins and flavonoids present in dandelion extracts have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and dry eye syndrome. By soothing the eyes and reducing redness, dandelion tinctures provide relief from irritation, discomfort, and visual disturbances associated with sore eyes.
Additionally, their antioxidant properties help protect the delicate tissues of the eye from further damage, promoting a faster recovery process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the eyes associated with sore eyes.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid phenolic compound has potent antioxidant properties, which help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for sore eyes.
- Inulin: This polysaccharide has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help calm the eyes and reduce redness and irritation associated with sore eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: Used to make a tincture due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which can help soothe and protect the eyes.
- Flowers: Used to make a tincture due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce swelling and infection in the eyes.
- Roots: Used to make a tincture due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for sore eyes.
- Harvest approximately 1 pint of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers on a sunny day.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale material into small pieces using a sharp knife or scissors.
- Combine 1 pint of the chopped taraxacum officinale with 2 cups of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the container daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
9. Stachys byzantina
Lamb's ear tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb, also known as Stellaria media, has been used for centuries to calm irritated eyes and reduce redness. When taken as a tincture, it absorbs quickly into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief from dryness, itchiness, and burning sensations associated with sore eyes. The tincture's antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
As a result, lamb's ear tinctures have become a natural remedy for soothing and calming sore eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stachys byzantina tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, specifically leonurine and stachysoside, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate soreness and redness in the eyes by reducing inflammation and protecting the delicate tissues from oxidative damage.
- Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids present in Stachys byzantina, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm sore eyes by reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress.
- Flavonoids: The flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, present in Stachys byzantina, possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate soreness and redness in the eyes by reducing inflammation, combating oxidative stress, and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lamb's ear used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in bioactive compounds, making them a popular choice for herbal remedies, including eye soothers.
- Flowers: The flowers of Stachys byzantina contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce eye irritation.
- Roots: The roots of Stachys byzantina are used for their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm and soothe sore, irritated eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lamb's ear for sore eyes.
- Harvest fresh stachys byzantina leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present on the plants.
- Chop 250 grams of the harvested leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 750 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
10. Verbena officinalis
Lemon verbena tinctures helps with sore eyes because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's flavonoids and phenolic compounds work to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with dry or irritated eyes. By soothing the mucous membranes and calming the conjunctiva, lemon verbena tincture provides relief from itchiness and burning sensations, promoting a sense of calm and clarity in the affected area.
As a natural remedy, it can be used as an alternative to traditional eye drops, offering a gentle and effective solution for soothing sore eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis tinctures that help with sore eyes.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as verbascoside, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and reduce inflammation in sore eyes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including verboside, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect the eyes from infections and reduce redness and irritation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as rutin, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing in sore eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make tinctures for sore eyes.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their soothing and antimicrobial effects.
- Roots: Used to make tinctures for sore eyes due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for sore eyes.
- Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and flowers on a sunny day in late summer or early fall.
- Clean the harvested material thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.
- Combine 1 part fresh verbena officinalis material with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep for 2-4 weeks shaking daily to extract.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for sore eyes?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with sore eyes is a blend of Eyebright, Nettle Leaf, and Goldenseal.
Eyebright helps to reduce redness and inflammation, while Nettle Leaf soothes and calms the eyes. Goldenseal, with its antibacterial properties, prevents infection and promotes healing. Mixing 10-15 drops of each tincture in water or tea, and applying it as an eye wash, can provide relief from sore, itchy, and irritated eyes.
Regular use can also help to prevent future eye problems.
What ailments similar to sore eyes are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to sore eyes that are treated with herbal tinctures are ear infections, sinusitis, and throat irritations.
Tinctures made from herbs such as goldenseal, echinacea, and yarrow have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and heal these conditions.
These herbs can be used topically or taken internally to alleviate symptoms like pain, swelling, and congestion, providing natural relief for a range of ear, nose, and throat issues.