If you have dry eyes that irritate you, you might find relief by taking herbs. Herbs with essential fatty acids provide moisture to dry eyes, according to the Herb Research Foundation. Choose trustworthy herbal retailers, as herbs are not regulated, and always speak to your doctor before taking herbal supplements.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is one type of herb containing essential fatty acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that flaxseed has improved dry eyes in sufferers of Sjogren's syndrome, a condition that causes dry glands, including in the eyes. UMMC warns that flaxseed could slow absorption of other medicines or supplements you are taking. Avoid flaxseed if you have schizophrenia or diabetes or if you are taking medications that lower your blood sugar or cholesterol or that thin your blood. Speak to your doctor before using flaxseed oil supplements.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil, another fatty plant oil, might improve dry eyes. A 1986 article published in the "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology" reports that evening primrose oil improved dry eye symptoms in study participants with Sjogren's syndrome. Evening primrose oil is found in capsule and liquid form. Speak to your physician before taking evening primrose oil for your dry eyes.
Borage
Borage is also on the list of herbs with essential fatty acids that improve dry eyes, according to the Herb Research Foundation. Victoria Zak, in her book "20,000 Secrets of Tea," recommends making a tea out of the borage plant, using fresh borage instead of the dried variety. You can also find borage in the form of oil or capsules. Zak warns that high doses of borage have caused liver damage in rat studies. Consult your physician before taking borage supplements or using borage tea as a treatment method.
Eyebright
Separate from the fatty herbs is the eyebright plant, which is used for dry eyes and other eye conditions. Eyebright, a green shrub with white or purple flowers, promotes healing in the mucous membranes. Zak suggests drinking eyebright tea to relieve your dry eyes. Talk to your doctor before taking this herb for dry eyes.
