Dry eyes happen when the mucus layer that normally keeps eyes moist dries out. Dry eyes can be caused by a multitude of conditions ranging from disease and illness, to old age, to staring at a computer screen for too long. A variety of herbal remedies can treat dryness by stimulating tear production and providing moisture for the eye.
Chamomile
Chamomile, a member of the daisy family, is a flowering plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. It's an anti-inflammatory and a cooling aid, and can help relieve redness and swelling in addition to dryness. Steep two tea bags in hot water, then place one over each eye once they have cooled. You can also create a chamomile eye wash by steeping 1 tsp. of the dried flowers in boiling water for five minutes, according to Health911.com.
Eyebright
Eyebright is a wildflower native to Europe. An astringent and an anti-bacterial as well as an anti-inflammatory, it has been used to treat eye problems for hundreds of years, according to Health911.com. To create an eye wash, mix 1 tsp. of dried eyebright with a cup of water and boil for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool, and then pour half a teaspoon into each eye.
Evening Primrose
Evening primrose is a wildflower native to North America, Europe and parts of Asia, and gets its name because it only flowers at night. The seeds of the evening primrose are rich in the essential fatty acids that aid in tear production and help relieve dry eyes, according to DryEyeSyndrome.net. You should take 1,000 mg capsules of evening primrose oil twice daily, according to EyeCareBasics.com. Primrose oil capsules can be purchased at health food stores.
