Eyes, dry
Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Dry Eyes:
- Etiologic Factors:
- Reduced Tear Production: Aging, autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), or hormonal changes.
- Increased Tear Evaporation: Environmental factors (dry, windy climates), prolonged screen time, or eyelid disorders (e.g., incomplete blinking).
- Imbalance in Tear Composition: Meibomian gland dysfunction or chronic inflammation.
- Other Contributing Factors:
- Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, or beta-blockers.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disease, or allergies.
- Lifestyle: Dehydration, smoking, or poor diet lacking omega-3 fatty acids.
- Contact lenses or extended wear of them.
When to Seek Professional Help:
- Persistent discomfort despite using artificial tears or home remedies.
- Severe redness, pain, or light sensitivity.
- Blurred vision or difficulty seeing.
- Mucus discharge or crusting on the eyelids.
- Symptoms suggestive of an underlying condition (e.g., joint pain, dry mouth).
Christopher Hobbs:
“Dry eyes is a symptom of a metabolically overactive liver and insufficient liver blood flow.”
Treatment Plan for Eyes, dry
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
- Mild symptoms such as occasional dryness, itching, or irritation.
- Herbal Options to Consider:
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Calendula (Calendula officinalis) Compresses: Reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
- Aloe Vera (Aloe vera) Gel: Applied sparingly around the eyelids (not directly in the eyes) for hydration.
- Eyebright (Euphrasia stricta): Traditionally used for eye health in teas or compresses.
- Omega-3 Supplements: Found in flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum)Â or fish oil, to improve tear quality.
Note: Avoid direct application of herbs to the eyes unless properly formulated for ophthalmic use and ensure no allergies or adverse reactions to the chosen remedy.
Christopher Hobbs:
“An eyewash of eyebright (Euphrasia stricta) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)Â can help soothe inflamed eyes and reduce irritation. An herbal regime can include adrenal and liver tonic herbs.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Related Eyes, dry conditions
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The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.