Itchy and dry eyes are very common these days, especially during the allergy season like rainy. This problem can be recurring for those who have a habit of frequently touching or rubbing their eyes. Dry eyes can be caused when tear glands do not produce enough tears for lubrication and this in turn can also cause eye inflammation and irritation. Here are some home remedies for dry and irritated eyes:
POTATO
Potato juice acts like an astringent, thereby soothing eye irritation and also moisturising your eyes and area around it. Grate a clean potato and place on the eye, or squeeze the juice out of it and apply around the eyes and on lids. The potato may also be made into a poultice and placed over the eye for 15 minutes. Do this for three successive nights for an effective treatment.
ALOE VERA
Aloe vera has moisturizing and soothing properties which make it a wonderful and effective remedy for dry and itchy eyes. Soak cotton pads in pure aloe vera gel and place them on your eyes for 10-15 mins.
ROSE WATER
Rose water can make your eyes relax and soothe the itchiness. Dip a piece of cotton either in rose water and apply it on your closed eyes. Leave it on for about 10 minutes. You may even use 2 tablespoons rose water mixed with 3 tablespoons of milk for this purpose.
TEA BAGS
Tea contains bioflavonoids that fight viral and bacterial infections and the tannic acid in the tea helps soothe the itching. Simply soak a tea bag in warm water (or cold water of eyes are itchy and red) and place it on your eyes for 15 minutes. You may also use the tea as eye rinse.
CUCUMBER
Cucumber soothes the eyes by providing coolness. You simply need to wash and clean the cucumber and make thin slices of it. Refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes and put them over the eyes and repeat the remedy four to five times a day.
COLD COMPRESS
A cold compress can give your eyes instant sootheness and reduce inflammation and redness. Soak a cloth in ice cold water and place it over the eyes. You may also use chilled tea bags, preferably chamomile or green tea over the eyes. Do these remedies 3-4 times a day to get fast relief.
HUMIDIFIER
Humidifier is a great remedy for dry eyes. Using air conditioners makes air dry lacking moisture. A humidifier puts more moisture in the air. With more moisture in the air, tears evaporate more slowly, keeping your eyes more comfortable.
OIL
Castor or coconut oil can be used to soothe dry eyes and itchiness, by lubricating it. These oils also have antibacterial and antifungal action. Massage your eyes with the oil gently, using your ring finger for few mins.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
– Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It can be consumed directly or with fruits and drinks. This can be helpful in treating dry eyes.
– Grape-enriched diet supports eye health and may prevent vision-threatening retinal diseases.
– If you are suffering from dry eyes, try to limit your coffee consumption.
– While staring at monitors or televisions, people do not often blink their eyes, along with putting a lot of stress on the eyes and causing the eyes to dry up. Always take break every hour and blink your eyes looking at a distance.