Herbal eye washes can bring relief for eye infections and tired eyes. Bacteria or viruses can cause eyes to become irritated and inflamed, and eyestrain may result from excessive computer use, driving, improper lighting, tension and anxiety. Treating eye conditions promptly may help avoid further problems, such as headaches, blurry vision, dizziness and migraines. Herbal teas, tinctures and decoctions have a long history as soothing washes for eyestrain and eye infections. Check with your medical provider before starting herbal treatment.
Marigold
Marigold, or Calendula officinalis, is a bright orange-yellow flower native to Europe. Traditional healers use the flower heads as teas, tinctures and ointments to treat a wide range of disorders, including eye problems, wounds, burns, eczema, hemorrhoids, sore throats, gastric ulcers and indigestion. Marigold contains flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes and essential oil, and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Herbalist Penelope Ody states that Marigold makes an effective eyebath for sties and inflammations. Cool teas and diluted non-alcoholic tinctures make effective eye washes. Do not use marigold internally if you are taking blood-thinning medication.
Eyebright
Eyebright, or Euphrasia officinalis, is an annual herb with white and pink flowers that have an "eye," or dark spot in the center. The aerial parts can be used as teas, tinctures and decoctions, and are a traditional remedy for a range of eye problems, including irritation, inflammation, eyestrain and blepharitis. Eyebright contains iridoid glycosides, tannins and flavonoids, and has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Penelope Ody suggests using an eyebright wash to treat conjunctivitis, which is a bacterial or viral infection also known as pink eye. Herbal experts Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink suggest making a two percent decoction from the flowers and washing your eyes three to four times per day. Consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal, or Hydrastis canadensis, is a perennial herb with green and white flowers and small, inedible red berries. Traditional healers use the roots and rhizomes to treat diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhage, ulcers, colitis and poor appetite. Active ingredients include the alkaloids hydrastine and berberine, which have potent antimicrobial properties. Van Wyk and Wink note that these alkaloids are also used in conventional eye drops. Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, recommend washing your eyes with goldenseal tea or diluted extract to clear away mucus that accumulates from allergies, pink eye or colds. If using the tincture, be sure it is non-alcoholic.
References
- "The Holistic Herbal Directory"; Penelope Ody; 2009
- "Medicinal Plants of the World"; Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink; 2009
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, M.D.; 2000
