Swollen eyelids can be caused by allergies or colds, lack of sleep, or eye infections such as conjunctivitis. Eyelid swelling can be itchy, painful and even interfere with eyesight if the eyelid tissue extends into the range of vision. Sleep, cold water compresses and cucumber slices are all helpful, natural remedies to relieve puffy eyes. Cool poultices made from herbs can also help diminish puffiness and soothe swollen eyelids.
Flax Seed
A poultice of flaxseed, or Linum usitat issimum, is a traditional remedy for sore eyes and swollen eyelids, reported Pauline Monette Black in the University of Nebraska's 1935 publication, "Nebraska Folk Cures." Flaxseed continues to be used as a soothing external treatment for eye problems such as conjunctivitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website. Wrap 1 ounce of bruised flaxseed in cheesecloth, then steep it in 4 ounces of warm water for 15 minutes. Apply the cheesecloth-wrapped seed directly to the closed eyelid, making sure the temperature is comfortable first.
Celosia Seed
Celosia seed, or Celosia argentea, is a traditional Chinese herbal treatment for swollen eyelids and sore, red eyes, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Called qing xiang zi in Chinese medical practice, the herb is an anti-inflammatory and is presently the subject of research to reduce hypertension. Apply to the eyes as drops of the celosia seed extract, advises doctor of Chinese medicine Joe Hing Kwok Chu on AlternativeHealing.com.
Astringent Herbs
An infusion of astringent herbs like mullein, or Verbascum thapsus, oak bark, or Quercus spp., St. John's wort, or Hypericum perforatum, and yarrow, or Achillea millefolium, will tighten up the skin, shrinking puffiness and swelling, according to eHerbalRemedies.com, an Ayurvedic and Indian traditional medicine informational website. Prepare the infusion much the same way as a cup of hot tea, steeping 1 to 2 teaspoons of the dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes then strain. Allow to cool to a comfortable temperature against the skin and then soak a clean washcloth in the infusion. Apply it to the affected eyes.
Flowering Herbs
A series of flowering wild and garden herbs are traditionally used to sooth swollen eyelids, particularly in association with conjunctivitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website. These include eyebright, or Euphrasia officinalis, chamomile, or Matricaria recutita, fennel seed, or Foeniculum vulgare, and calendula, or Calendula officinalis, which is also called pot marigold, but is a different plant from the usual ornamental marigold, or Tagates spp. Make an infusion of these herbs alone or in combination and apply to closed eyelids with cotton balls 3 to 4 times a day, the University of Maryland Medical Center website suggests. However, be sure to see a doctor to address any infection or underlying eye disease that may be causing the problem.
References
- eHerbalRemedies.com: Natural Home Remedies for Puffy Eyes
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Conjunctivitis
- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine: Improving Vision With Traditional Chinese Medicine
- University of Nebraska Studies in Language, Literature and Criticism: Nebraska Folk Cures
- AlternativeHealing.org: Qing Xiang Zi
