Herbs for Dry Eye Relief

Eyes need a continuous flow of tears to remain lubricated. Without lubrication, eyes become dry and uncomfortable. Persistent dry eyes can be painful and the lack of moisture can cause damage to the cornea. Symptoms of dry eyes include burning, redness, itchiness and soreness.

While over-the-counter eye drops can relieve the symptoms of dry eyes, there are several herbal remedies that can relieve your discomfort and also contribute to the overall health of your eyes.

Chamomile

• Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory properties, soothes red, swollen dry eyes. Soak two chamomile tea bags in water. When they are cool, close your eyes and place one tea bag over each eye.

Eyebright

• Eyebright is another herb with anti-inflammatory properties. Steep the eyebright in hot water to allow the herb to infuse the liquid, remove the herb, and let the liquid cool. Wash your eyes with the cooled liquid by placing a teaspoon of the liquid into a small cup. Slowly pour the liquid into each eye. You can also soak two cotton balls in the liquid and place them over your eyes.

Bilberry

• Bilberry is an herb that helps enhance the overall health of your eye. The active ingredients in bilberry, anthocyanosides, are antitoxidants that assist in increasing the blood flow within the capillaries in the eye and maintaining their health. You can find bilberry in capsule form at your local health food store. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the bottle.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• According to Eyeworld.org, omega-3 fatty acids help alleviate dry eye symptoms. By taking three to six grams of a high-quality fish oil or flax seed oil daily, you can lessen the severity of your dry eye symptoms.