Herbs for Healing Eyewashes

Herbs are used in alternative medicine to treat various eye-related conditions. Herbal eyewashes can relieve eye strain and fatigue, inflammation, conjunctivitis and styes. Eyewashes are also a natural way to restore the sparkle to your eyes after long hours of driving or working. Apply eyewashes to stop watery eyes when you have a cold or allergies. Use herbs individually or in combination for soothing eye treatments.

Calendula

• Calendula blossoms have antibacterial and antiviral properties and can be especially effective when used on the skin and in your eyes. If your eyes are inflamed or irritated because of allergies or conjunctivitis, use an infusion of Calendula and warm water as an eyewash. Because it is one of the most gentle herbs available, it will not aggravate sensitive eyes or skin.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal is a potent herb that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its basic compound, called berberine, is particularly effective in treating herpes simplex virus in the eyes. It's useful as an eyewash for styes and for conjunctivitis. It is also an alternative to eye drops that are commercially sold to ease and soothe tired or itchy eyes. Goldenseal may irritate your eyes, so start with a weak solution for an eyewash. Make a tincture of Goldenseal and water, with more water than Goldenseal.

Coriander

• Coriander is another herb with extensive healing properties that is ideal for an eyewash. Dried coriander is recommended for treating eye pain and irritation caused by conjunctivitis. It helps relieve pain or swelling. Create an eyewash by combining warm water and dried coriander, the fresher the better.