5 Remedies For Blepharitis

If you ever have inflated eyelids, don’t reject it as a simple case of sleeplessness or insect bite. Inflated eyelids can even be a disease called ‘blepharitis.’ An easy way to identify blepharitis is the accompanying red eyelids, tiredness, itching and scaly patches. Due to its’ red colour it may often be confused for conjunctivitis, and as such it is recommended that it is immediately given medical attention.

It is commonly seen in those people who suffer from dandruff or even oily skin. Though washing the eyes, using an anti-dandruff shampoo and avoiding any eye makeup till complete recovery are suggested treatments, there are several herbal remedies that can also be of use here. Some of the beneficial herbal remedies for blepharitis are given here:

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Best Herbs For Blepharitis Treatment

Calendula

Traditionally this herb has always been used to treat inflammation of the eye and for healing wounds. It is a form of the marigold flower and known to contain volatile oils and lutein that act as nutrition for the eyes. Calendula in the form of an ointment can be rubbed against the eyelids 3-4 times daily for best results.

 

Alternatively it can be added with hypericum, to form a tincture. A few drops of this tincture can be added to a small bowl of warm water and then splashed on the eyes.

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Chamomile

When recommending herbs for blepharitis, this herb known for its calming effect is a preferred option. In fact the most preferred way of using chamomile is by dipping a tea bag in hot water and allowing it to cool for a while.

Once it has cooled down considerably, it can be kept over the eyelids for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively you can also take the essential oil of chamomile and mix it with castor oil and rub on the eyelids. This will further curb the loss of eyelashes.

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Bilberry

Accepted as a source for the essential flavonoids, bilberry’s anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant components ensure proper circulation to the eyes. There have been several researches conducted to prove that bilberry is effective in curing night vision, but no concrete proof is available.

A standardized doze of 80mg can be taken for twice or thrice a day. Alternatively extracts of bilberry can be added to an eye bath and compressed on the eye using a cotton cloth.

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Oregon grape

Known to contain berberine (an anti-bacterial component) that has been used traditionally in all eye drops for eye infection especially that of trachoma. Its’ anti-oxidant components prevents damage to the eyelids.

It can be taken in the form of capsules, 100mg for a maximum of thrice daily. Externally an eye wash can be prepared in a diluted form with berberine. You can even make a tea for internal consumption though this is not the most preferred option.

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Eyebright

Often the most preferred of all options, eyebright is known traditionally to offer relief from the swollen red eyes and visual difficulties that blepharitis causes. It contains flavanoids, alkaloids, Vitamins B, C and E and also volatile oils that help to cure the eye.

 

Take half a litre of water and boil 15-20gms of dry eyebright in it for about 10-15 minutes. On cooling take cotton and dip it in this. It can then be used to compress the eyes three to four times daily.