Herbal eyewashes can relieve eye strain and fatigue, inflammation, conjunctivitis and styes. You can also apply eyewashes to stop watery eyes when you have a cold or allergy. An herbal eyewash is a natural way to restore the sparkle to your eyes after long hours of driving or working. Use herbs individually or in combination to give your eyes comfort and support.
Eyebright
According to herbalist David Hoffmann, eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is the preferred herb for treating eye problems. Eyebright is especially useful for treating conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which is an infection of the mucus membranes of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis is usually caused by bacteria or by an allergen like pollen, dust or animal hair. Eyebright can reduce the inflammation of conjunctivitis and fight the infection. Use the whole plant to make an infusion or tincture.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is useful when you have eye irritation or problems in the mucous membranes of the eyes. It is a potent astringent, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Use it as a wash for inflamed eyes, conjunctivitis and styes (infections in the sebaceous, or oil gland of the eyelid). Goldenseal is a strong mucous membrane tonic and can refresh tired eyes. Too much goldenseal may irritate your eyes, so start with a weak solution and build up gradually. Use the root to make an infusion or tincture.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is useful for eyestrain. It has anti-inflammatory and sedative actions, and soothes tired and strained eyes. Use the flowers and leaves to make an infusion or tincture.
Self-Heal
Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaria) has mild astringent and tonic actions. Treat your eyes with a self-heal wash to refresh them when they become tired or strained. Use the flowers and leaves to make an infusion or tincture.
Marigold
Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is an antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory. Use it when your eyes become irritated by dust, pollen or other allergen. Marigold can also reduce the inflammation caused by styes and may be useful in treating fungal infections in the eyes. Use the bright yellow flower petals to make an infusion or tincture.
Suggestions
Eyewashes are for external use, but you may want to supplement your eyewash treatment with other antibacterial or anti-inflammatory herbs taken internally to fight infection and support your immune system.
Precautions
See your doctor for a correct diagnosis before treating yourself with herbal products.
Never use an alcoholic tincture in your eyes.
Filter the infusion through a coffee filter to remove small bits of the herb.
Use sterile gauze and clean eyecups.
Boil the water well when making an eyewash infusion or tincture.
Conjunctivitis is contagious, so avoid using the same gauze pad or eyecup for both eyes.
Instructions
Make an eyewash by dissolving 5 to 10 drops of a nonalcoholic tincture in a cup of water. Alternatively, steep 1 teaspoon of the dried herb in 1 cup of boiled water for 15 minutes, and then strain and cool. Use an eye cup or sterile gauze pad to wash your eyes. Do this several times a day until the infection clears.
References
- "Holistic Herbal;" David Hoffmann; 2003
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