Dry eyes is an uncomfortable condition that may cause burning, itchiness and inflammation in your eyes. They occur when your eyes produces poor quality or no tears at all. The causes vary and according to MayoClinic.com can include clogged meibomian glands, which are the oil glands in your eyes. Other causes are lack of tears in postmenopausal women, refractive eye surgery, tear gland damage, lack of blinking due to an eyelid problem, medications such as blood pressure medication, pain relievers and birth control pills as well as environmental causes such as dry air and high altitude.
Chamomile
Chamomile, also known botanically as Matricaria chamomilla, has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and analgesic properties, according to the book "The New Holistic Herbal," written by herbalist David Hoffman. You can brew a strong chamomile tea by adding 4 tbsp. of dry and organic chamomile blossoms to a cup of boiling water and letting the herb steep for at least 15 minutes. Strain out the plant material and soak a soft and clean cloth in your chamomile tea. Wait until the tea is cooler than body temperature before you apply the compress to your to avoid causing further discomfort. It is safe to open your eyes while you are dabbing the tea with the cloth, just make sure to move your eyeballs so the herb reaches all parts of your eye and brings relief to any inflammation and redness.
Eyebright
Eyebright, known botanically as Euphrasia officinalis, is especially beneficial for treating the mucous membrane of your eyes. Hoffmann notes that eyebright can help acute and chronic dry eye conditions as it reduces inflammation and moistens your eyes. Make an eyebright compress by adding 1 tsp. of dry and organic eyebright herb to a pint of water; bring to a boil for 10 minutes. Soak your compress in this tea, wring it out and place it over your eyes for a minimum of 15 minutes. You can repeat this process several times per day until you experience relief from your dry eyes.
Calendula
Botanically known as Calendula officinalis, calendula blossom treats irritation and infection in your eyes due to its high antiseptic qualities, according to herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in her book "Family Herbal." It also reduces inflammation, allowing your eyes to cool and restore their natural moisture without having to fight infection and discomfort. You can make a similar compress as with chamomile, using 2 tbsp. dry calendula blossoms for each cup of boiling water.
References
- "The New Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1995
- "Family Herbal"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- MayoClinic.com: Dry Eye Causes
