Dry eye is an ophthalmological condition in which the eyes fail to produce enough amounts of tears to keep the surface lubricated. Tears are an integral constituent of our eyes to maintain their health. Today, dry eye is a more common problem than you can think of. Often, it manifests into a chronic illness as well. With advancing age, the chances of developing this condition increases.
In the United States, 6.8% of the adult population has been reported to be suffering from dry eye symptoms. It is more common in women than in men(1).
Dry eyes often cause itchy and scratchy sensations accompanied with discomfort in eyes. If ignored for a long time, it may cause burning sensation, dryness, pain and, redness in the eyes. In some cases, it is noticed that it can also cause visual disturbances.
Even though there is no permanent cure for this condition, but it can be controlled and managed efficiently by using natural and home remedies. Along with the treatments prescribed by your doctor, you can try these remedies and lifestyle changes
Table of Contents
Natural Remedies for Dry Eyes
- Home Remedies
- Foods
- Herbs
- Essential oils
- Supplements
CURE 1: Home Remedies for Dry Eye
1. Drink Enough Water:
How does it work?
Keeping yourself hydrated is a crucial tactic that you need to employ when you are suffering from dry eyes. Water is essential for the proper functioning of the tear glands. The dysfunction of the tear glands could be chalked down to the lack of water. It also helps to keep the surface of your eyes lubricated enough.
How to use?
Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily at regular intervals. That would keep your body hydrated and properly functioning.
How much to use?
Drinking a minimum of 8-10 glasses of water is recommended by the experts in order to keep your body hydrated enough. A properly hydrated body will be ideal to reduce the risk of developing dry eyes.
2. Keep Yourself Away from Smoking:
How does it work?
Smoking is not only injurious to your lungs, but it can also affect your eyes. The smoke of cigarettes can contribute to the increase in irritation and discomfort caused by the dry eyes. It will only make the condition worse.
How to use?
If you are struggling with the symptoms of dry eyes then quitting smoking should be your first priority. For a non-smoker, it is important to ensure avoidance from passive smoking. It can be more damaging.
How much to use?
Smoking will only increase the amount of discomfort, irritation, and itching if you already have dry eyes. Therefore, the best advice would be to quit smoking completely and stay away from any kind of passive smoking.
Also Read: Smoking During Pregnancy
3. Warm Compress:
How does warm compress for dry eyes work?
Warm compress is an effective way of providing instant relief from all the irritations related to dry eyes. Heat can be very comforting while facing eye-related problems.
How to use?
Take a clean towel and soak in it lukewarm water. Now apply this soaked towel on your eyes and keep it on for around 10-15 minutes. This remedy provides instant relief from all the discomforts brought by dry eyes.
How much to use?
Try to use warm compress at least twice or thrice a day if you want some alleviation from the symptoms of dry eyes.
4. Use Cucumber:
How does it work?
The cooling effects of cucumber are widely known and appreciated by a lot of people. Dry eyes present a lot of symptoms like burning, itching, redness, and blemishes. Cucumber loaded with its soothing properties can help you treat all those distressing issues.
How to use?
Take a cucumber and cut it into slices. Take two slices and put it on your closed eyes. Let it rest for some time and it will alleviate your puffy eyes.
How much to use?
Using cucumber on your eyes on a daily basis will help you with your dry eye discomforts to a very great extent. Try to use this remedy 1-2 times a day to get some effective results.
CURE 2: Foods
Foods for Dry eyes, Weird isn’t it? Yes, foods could actually prevent dry eyes
1. Fish:
An integral part of a lot of diets around the globe. Fish serves as an important source of protein and also is a powerhouse for omega-3 fatty acids that are not only healthy but also help in maintaining the eyes
How does it work?
Fishes, especially fatty fishes, are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are extremely essential for the healthy functioning of our bodies.
Omega-3 fatty acids namely Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)(2) can help your eyes in the fight against dry eyes. Also, these fishes are rich in Vitamin D which is an integral vitamin needed by your eyes to stay healthy.
How to use?
Fishes like salmon, sardines, mackerel, tuna, and trout are famous for their Omega-3 fatty acids. Their oils are the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. You can include them in your diet to increase your daily Omega-3 intake.
Sardines and mackerel also provide you ample amounts of Vitamin D thereby also helping your body to boost its immune system. Ideally, it is suggested that you eat this protein for lunches and try to have it at least twice a week.
How much to use?
The intake of fatty fishes and the required amount is variable as it depends on several factors such as health, fitness level, age and many more. Before adhering to this regimen, do consult your dietician and physician.
Also Read: Are fish oil supplements healthy in pregnancy?
2. Nuts and Seeds:
Nuts and seeds are a rich source of protein and fatty acids. They can be consumed by everyone alike even by people who are vegan or vegetarian. Flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds are some prime examples of this category.
How does it work?
Nuts and seeds are well known as rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. An omega-3 fatty acid is an important element when it comes to the health of your eyes. Nuts and seeds can provide you those healthy fatty acids which help you prevent the risk of dry eyes.
How to use?
Nuts like walnuts, peanuts and seeds like flaxseeds, chia seeds or pumpkin seeds are high in Omega-3 sources which you should integrate into your daily diet. You can have them with your breakfast or just have them as your mid-day snacks. Chia seeds can be added with your favorite shakes or smoothies making them even healthier. These nuts and seeds will benefit your eyes and your body in the long run.
How much to use?
A handful of walnuts or flaxseeds can provide you the amount of Omega-3 fatty acids you require to lead a healthy life. You can also have a glass of your favorite juice, shake or smoothie with grounded chia seeds. This will also help you in increasing your Omega-3 consumption.
3. Bananas and Berries:
Fruits are a powerhouse of minerals and vitamins and they are also known to boost the immune system and help in maintaining the holistic health of the body. Bananas and berries are considered to be a powerhouse of minerals such as potassium that helps in boosting the eye’s overall health
How does it work?
Bananas and berries have higher levels of potassium in them. Potassium is an important component of your tear films and, thus, plays a great role in preventing dry eyes. Your tear films can be damaged due to the low potassium levels in your body. Bananas and berries can help you fulfilling that potassium deficiency in your body.
How to use?
Make a habit of eating bananas and berries on a daily basis if you want to keep your eyes healthy. You can add bananas and berries like strawberries or blueberries with your breakfast cereal or oatmeal. Bananas, strawberries, and blueberries can also make excellent shakes and smoothies. Not only are they healthy but also tasty.
How much to take?
Eat bananas and berries daily but do bear in mind that bananas are high in calories and, therefore, can make you gain weight if you eat too much. Having a daily limit of 1-2 bananas and a cup of berries will be enough to provide you with the required amounts of potassium.
4. Leafy Greens:
Leafy green vegetables are not only given the credit that they deserve, but these green munchies are also an absolute powerhouse of minerals and could help improve sight and help in preventing and curing dry eyes to a greater extent.
How does it work?
When it comes to your eyes’ health nothing can be more helpful than eating leafy green vegetables. Leafy green vegetables contain many antioxidants. They are also full of pigments like lutein and zeaxanthin.
These pigments can boost your eye health by preventing macular degeneration and dry eyes. They also contain good amounts of potassium. This will help you to maintain a thick and healthy tear film.
How to use?
Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, cabbage, spinach, and collard greens, etc. should be integrated into your daily diet if you want dry eyes to be a condition of the past. You can just stir fry them with your favorite fish and have them in your lunch.
How much to use?
1-2 servings of green vegetables should be a must in your diet if you want to live a healthy life. They will help you not only with dry eyes but will help you to maintain your overall health.
CURE 3: Herbs for Dry Eye
1. Mint:
Mint is a small shrub that is grown everywhere now, because it has several medicinal properties and that it is also used in cooking. It belongs to mentha, a genus of plants in the family Lamiaceae. It is estimated that 13 to 18 species exist of mint exist and the exact distinction between these species is still unclear(3).
How does it work?
When it comes to cooling effect nothing can even think of beating mint. The menthol present in mint primarily gives mint its soothing properties. Along with that menthol boosts tear production and gives a sense of refreshment to your eyes.
How to use?
Boil 10-12 mint leaves in a bowl of water and let it cool down to room temperature. Wash your eyes with this mint-infused water. You will be relieved from the stinging and burning sensation of dry eyes.
How much to use?
You can repeat this process twice a day. This remedy will leave your eyes refreshed and energized.
2. Chamomile:
Chamomile is considered as one of the most ancient medicinal herbs that have been used for centuries. There have been several derivatives and preparations of chamomile that have been developed over the years, and most popular among this is herbal tea, which is still used to this date with more than 1 million cups consumed per day
How does it work?
The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of chamomile make it a perfect remedy for dry eyes. It restores the lost moisture of your eyes and soothes it beyond your imagination. It promotes rest for your eyes by giving it to them.
How to use?
Take 10-12 chamomile flowers and boil it in some water. Use this water to wash your eyes. Also, you can add 2-3 drops of chamomile oil in warm water and wash your eyes with that water. These will soothe your eyes in no time. Moreover, chamomile tea promotes sleep which is good resting time for your eyes.
How much to use?
Washing your eyes twice a day with chamomile-infused water can be beneficial for your eye by reducing the dry eye symptoms. Additionally, try to drink a cup of chamomile tea before going to bed regularly. This will promote a sound and restful sleep.
3. Paprika:
How does it work?
Apart from its ability to make your food a little bit spicier, paprika is well known for its contribution in promoting good health for eyes. Paprika is loaded with Vitamin A which is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning eye. It can effectively ward off all the issues related to dry eyes.
How to use?
Sprinkle paprika on your favorite dishes and it will add flavor to your dishes. You can just add paprika in your fries, chips, sandwiches, pizzas, fish, chicken, salad and curry, etc.
How much to use?
There is no guideline of using paprika. It will depend on your taste and the requirements of your dishes. Add paprika according to how you want your dishes and enjoy flavourful dishes while beating the dry eyes.
4. Turmeric:
How does it work?
Turmeric is famous and has been used across many cultures owing to its various medicinal properties. It is well reputed for being antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. It works very well when it comes to preventing dry eyes.
How to use?
You can add turmeric powder to your curries and soups. Turmeric will not only help with your dry eyes but will also give your curries and soups a distinct flavor and color.
As a matter of fact, you can also add a tablespoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and have it before going to bed at night. This simple and easy remedy can help you with many health conditions including dry eyes and several digestive issues.
How much to use?
Use turmeric powder in your dishes as much as they require. Also, you can consider having one glass of turmeric milk on a daily basis in order to avoid several health-related issues including dry eyes.
CURE 4: Essential Oils for Dry Eye
1. Flaxseed Oil :
Linseed oil, also commonly referred to as flaxseed oil or flax oil, is a colorless oil extracted from the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant. This oil is obtained by pressing the seeds and then is followed by solvent extraction.
How does it work?
The Omega-3 fatty acids present in flaxseed oil can help in reducing the symptoms of dry eyes. The anti-inflammatory properties of flaxseed oil can also help deal with any kind of damage to the tear glands or cornea.
How to use Flaxseed oil for Dry eyes?
Integrating flaxseed oil along with other fatty acid supplements or foods is the best way of getting rid of the discomforts of dry eye and to alleviate the symptoms that are present.
How much to use?
Flaxseed oil can be taken along with other supplements or alone on a daily basis. To get a visible result and quick healing of your dry eyes, use flaxseed oil regularly.
2. Chamomile Oil:
Chamomile is considered as one of the most ancient medicinal herbs that have been used for centuries. There have been several derivatives and preparations of chamomile that have been developed over the years, and most popular among this is herbal tea, which is still used to this date with more than 1 million cups consumed per day
How does it work?
With its mild and sweet fragrance, chamomile oil is well reputed for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cooling, and soothing properties. The dry eye presents symptoms like swelling, itching, redness, and irritation in the eyes.
Chamomile oil can very effectively work against all these symptoms. It can alleviate irritation, redness, and itching effectively over time.
How to use?
Mixing a few drops of chamomile oil in hot water and using that water for washing off your eyes may help you in dry eyes. You can also add a few drops of chamomile oil with aloe vera gel and apply that around your eyes.
The soothing effects of both aloe vera gel and chamomile oil will help you get relief from the irritation caused by dry eyes.
How much to take?
Few drops of chamomile oil can be used with either hot water or aloe vera gel depending on your choice. It will be enough to soothe your puffy eyes if you are having a condition like dry eye.
3. Lavender Oil:
Lavender essential oil is one of the most used essential oil in today’s age. It is been extensively used in aromatherapy. The benefits of lavender were actually discovered 2,500 years ago in the tombs of Egypt as it was used in the process of mummification. It has both cosmetic and medicinal properties.
How does it work?
Lavender oil is another essential oil which is used in many health conditions due to its soothing and calming properties. Lavender oil can be highly beneficial in fighting itching, sores, blemishes, irritation, and inflammation which are the symptoms of dry eye.
How to use?
You can use lavender oil to treat your dry eyes through steam inhalation. You need to put 2-3 drops of lavender oil in a bowl of hot water, now you could inhale the vapor. For better results, it is recommended that you cover yourself with a towel whilst inhaling.
Apart from this, you can mix some lavender oil with aloe vera gel or coconut oil and apply it around your eyes. This will help you relax by reducing the irritation in your eyes.
How much to use?
A daily steam inhalation session with lavender oil is much recommended if you are having dry eye related issues. You can also apply it around your eyes 2-3 times a day and it will be soothing to your eyes. Just make sure that the oil does not enter your eyes.
4. Tea tree oil:
Tea Tree oil, also commonly referred to as melaleuca. This is a volatile essential oil that is derived mainly from the plant Melaleuca Alternifolia, which is natively found in Australia. This essential oil is vastly used throughout Australia in the past century.
How does it work?
Tea tree oil has been used for its several medicinal properties since ages now. Lately, it has gained much popularity among people across the world. This has happened due to its antioxidant, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. When diluted, it can reduce the burning, pain, and irritation in your eyes.
How to use?
Tea tree can be used as a remedy for dry eyes but only in a diluted form. It can be added to warm water and used as water vapor. This may bring calmness to your burning and painful dry eyes. It is to be noted that you need to dilute this essential oil, as it is volatile and could hurt your skin.
How much to use?
Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to warm water while inhaling the water vapor. You can repeat this twice a day.
CURE 5: Supplements for Dry Eye
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Omega- 3 fatty acid supplements are considered extremely healthy and help in promoting the overall health of the body. From the skeletal structure to the bones and organs, they help in supporting and maintaining the body at its best.
How does it work?
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties which can help you with your dry eyes. They can prevent the inflammation in your tear glands and on the surface of your eyes. This makes them very essential for dealing with dry eyes.
How to use ?
You can in ingest omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements. Apart from fish oil supplements, you can consume fish oil by eating fatty fishes like salmon, sardines, and tuna. Nuts like walnuts and seeds like flaxseeds are also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
How much to take?
An Omega-3 intake of 1000 mg daily can provide relief from the symptoms of dry eyes. However, talk to your medical advisor before consuming fish oil for dry eyes.
2. Vitamins for Dry Eyes
Vitamins form the crux of a healthy body. They are essential to the body for several functions to run smoothly in the body. Supplementing yourself with this could not only help with your dry eyes, but it would also help in promoting the overall health of your body.
How does it work?
Vitamins like B6, B9, and B12 can prove very helpful in reducing the symptoms of and treating dry eyes effectively. These vitamins can reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. Therefore, taking them regularly can help you with your dry eyes.
How to use?
You can take Vitamin B complex supplements which are easily available in the medical stores. Also, an increase in the intake of fresh green vegetables could also serve the purpose as they are rich with essential vitamins.
How much to use?
Consuming 1000 mcg of Vitamin B12 as well as B6 and B9 can be helpful if you are having symptoms of dry eyes. However, it is advised that you seek the guidance of your doctors with vitamin supplements for effective and quick relief.
3. Vitamin A:
Also commonly referred to as retinol, is one of the most essential nutrients that is required by the body to maintain ocular health. A serious deficiency of this vitamin could lead to night blindness and several other complications with your eyes.
How does it work?
Vitamin A is of the most important when it comes to anything related to the health of your eyes. Lack of Vitamin A in your body can cause many problems for your eye and dry eye is one of them. Vitamin A deficiency makes your cornea dry and leads you to the discomfort of dry eyes.
How to use?
You could start by taking Vitamin A supplements if you are suffering from a Vitamin A deficiency and dry eyes as they both are linked. Additionally, you could also gorge yourself on carotenoid-rich vegetables like carrots as they are a good source of Vitamin A.
How much to use?
To avoid dry eyes or any kind of eye-related problems you will need 5000 IU of Vitamin A daily. However, if you are suffering from acute Vitamin A deficiency, the dosage may increase. In that case, you should contact your doctor and consult with them.
4. Vitamin C:
Also chemically referred to as ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin that is required by the body as it helps in the formation of collagen and is only required for the betterment of your ocular health.
How does it work?
Vitamin C can effectively protect your eyes from several kinds of damages. It is also required for producing collagen in the connective tissue that is present in your eye which is an important compound of the cornea.
How to use?
There are several Vitamin C supplements available in the market which you can take. Consider introducing lots of fresh green vegetables and tangy fruits in your diet which are loaded with Vitamin C.
How much to take?
If your daily Vitamin C intake is above 490 mg then you are at low risk of developing dry eyes or any eye related problems. Try to increase Vitamin C intake if you are on the lower side. However, it is advised that you consult with your doctor before adhering to this regimen.
FAQs
1. What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition in which your tear glands fails to produce adequate tears to keep your eyes lubricated enough. The lack of tears in your eyes leads to the drying out of tear films which brings the discomforts of dry eye.
Dry eye is a common condition among people of all ages but the chance of developing dry eye increases with age. It brings with it burning, stinging, itching, irritation, swelling, and redness in eyes which make it even worse.
2. What should be the diet for Dry Eye?
Proper diet for dry eye is very important to maintain the health of your eyes. Foods can very much help you battle against the symptoms of dry eye. Omega-3 rich fishes like salmon, sardine, mackerel, tuna, and trout along with nuts like walnuts and seeds like flaxseeds can be your savior.
Fresh leafy vegetables and fruits like banana as well as berries are also great choices as they are rich in potassium. You can also include dairy products, eggs, and whole grains as they help in keeping your eyes in a healthy condition.
3. What are the important supplements and vitamins for Dry Eye?
Fighting against dry eye becomes easier when you take proper supplements and vitamins with all the right foods and precautions. Omega-3 fatty acids are very important for your eyes. You should consider taking fish oil supplements while suffering from dry eye as they are great sources of Omega-3.
Vitamins like Vitamin A, E, C, B6, B9 and B12 all are very crucial if you want your eyes well functioning. Try increasing the intake of these vitamins by taking vitamin capsules available in the medical stores.
However, always remember to consult your physician before taking any supplements regularly.
4. How to reduce Dry Eye symptoms at home?
Dry eye carries with it distressing symptoms like dryness, burning, itching, irritation, and puffiness in eyes. All of these can be reduced and controlled through many home remedies. These home remedies for dry eye include warm compress, water vapor, using cucumbers on eyes, and using artificial tear drops. At the same time, you should keep yourself away from smoking or smoke.
Otherwise, the smoke can make your dry eye discomforts even worse. Also, do not forget to drink 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. This will keep your body and your eyes hydrated.
5. How to use essential oils for Dry Eye?
Essential oils are well reputed for their several medicinal and soothing properties. While suffering from dry eye symptoms you can take water vapor infusing essential oils in the water. You can use chamomile oil, lavender oil, and tea tree oil as water vapor.
They can also be added to aloe vera gel or coconut oil and can be applied around your eyes. All of these remedies will soothe and calm your eyes more than anything else. There are also benefits of using castor oil for dry eye.
6. Name some herbs which can help in Dry Eye.
Herbs are a great option for getting rid of the distresses that dry eye brings with it. Herbs like mint and chamomile which are famous for their cooling effects can sooth your stinging dry eye in no time. Use them by infusing them in water and washing off your eyes with that water.
This remedy will help you to get some relief. Some spices like paprika and turmeric can also help you in your dry eyes. Try to include them in your dishes to get their benefits.
In the treatment of dry eye, home remedies and natural cures play a more important role than the medication. From the foods you take to the lifestyle you lead, all can contribute to dealing with dry eye.
The symptoms carried by dry eye are no joke and can make your life hell. The burning, itching, irritation, and swelling which come as a package with dry eye can be dealt with effectively if you trust the natural remedies provided here.
Try to make use of essential oils and herbs as much as you can and eat healthy foods along with proper supplements. It will make the condition of your eyes better. Also, quit smoking and avoid airy spaces if you do not want to make your condition worse.