Do you suffer from itchy, red or burning eyes that become sensitive to light or are easily irritated from wind, smoke or even contact lenses? Having dry eyes is a common condition many deal with that can cause disturbances with your vision. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to help treat dry eyes. One surprising remedy could be castor oil. Read on to find out more.
Use Castor Oil for Dry Eyes
Castor oil is considered a natural remedy for dry eyes. Applying castor oil up to twice a day can help relieve some dry eye symptoms as it can mimic the oil found in our eyes. Apply it to the eye lids and not the actual eyes.
A number of eye drops have castor oil in them as well. However, when using castor oil as eye drops for the eyes, be sure to use one that is cold pressed and hexane free.
More Natural Ways to Deal with Dry Eyes
1. Aloe Vera
You can apply aloe Vera gel on the eyelids as you would do with the castor oil to relieve dry eyes. Apply the aloe to the eyelids up to twice a day.
2. Baking Soda Solution
Mix together a quarter teaspoon of baking soda and a third a cup of water. Wash your hands before using one of your fingers to apply this solution to the eyelids. Drink the rest of the solution after you have applied a small amount to the eyelids. If your dry eyes are caused by too much acidity in your system, the baking soda will help balance the acidity.
3. Borage Oil Supplement
While castor oil for dry eyes can be used on the eyelids, Borage oil can be taken as a supplement to treat dry eyes from the inside out. Borage oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of Omega 6 fatty acids that can help relieve dry eye irritations.
4. Drink More Water
One of the most common causes for dry eyes is not staying properly hydrated. Increase the amount of water you drink every day so you are consuming at least eight or more glasses of water a day.
5. Sliced Cucumber
The cooling sensation from a freshly cut cucumber can help reduce dry eye irritation. Cut slices of chilled cucumbers and place them over the eyes, leave on for a few minutes.
6. Flaxseed Oil
Consuming flaxseed oil can help treat dry eyes. Rich in Omega 3-fatty acids, you can mix this oil with a variety of drinks or drink it directly to help reduce dry eye irritation.
7. Lavender Oil
Mix a couple drop of lavender oil with a cup of water. Use a clean cloth to dip in the mixture and apply to the eyes then. You should begin to feel relief after a few minutes.
8. Cold Milk
You can apply cold milk to the eyes as you would when using castor oil for dry eyes. Use a cotton ball to absorb some of the cold milk and then place on the eye to relax the eyes.
9. Use a humidifier
To help keep the air around you moist, you want to consider using a humidifier. Humidifiers or air purifiers can help relieve dry eyes by increasing the moisture in the air surrounding you.
10. Warm Compress
Cover the eyes with a warm compress for about 20 minutes. This can be done using a clean towel dipped in warm water and wrung out. Using a warm compress helps maintain moisture in the eyes.
11. Eat Grapes
Grapes are great to maintain proper eye health and can help prevent a number of eye or vision conditions. Simply make an effort to consume more grapes throughout the day on a regular basis.
12. Blinking Exercises
Exercising the eyes properly and regularly can reduce the strain on the eyes and maintain moisture. Blink the eyes constantly so the eyes stay moistened.
13. Proper Eye Hygiene
Taking proper care of your eyes is essential to reduce dry eye irritations. Keep your hands away from the eyes and avoid rubbing the eyes.
14. Proper Diet and Nutrition
While castor oil for dry eyes is an effective way to treat dry eyes directly, one of the most important things to consider is your diet. Consume foods that are rich in fatty acids such as whole grains, almonds, walnuts and dried fruits.
15. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
To help reduce your dry eye symptoms, try to avoid dry environments or situation that can result in drying out the eyes, like using the hair dryer or smoking. Also, try not to sit in air conditioned rooms and reduce the amount of time you spend in front of the computer.
