The best recipe for clear bright eyes is a good night's sleep. "Just enough regular and natural sleep is the great kindler of woman's most charming light", wrote a famous beauty of the nineteenth century. Failing that, eyes which are tired, irritated or bloodshot can often be soothed with a cooled herbal decoction. However, if you experience frequent or continuing eye irritation, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

When you are dealing with the delicate eye area, scrupulous cleanliness is vital. Sterilize all utensils and fabrics and use only absolutely fresh decoctions. Always boil herbs for an eye bath for 20 minutes to kill the greatest number of bacteria. Then filter the solution three times through a coffee filter paper to ensure no small bits remain to irritate the eye.

The most famous reputation for giving a brilliance and sparkle to the eyes goes to the modest little plant eyebright (Euphrasia rostkoviana). It can relieve tiredness and soreness, and halt running eyes from a cold or hay-fever.

Herbal Eye Refreshers

Make a strong decoction of the herb. Strain, then soak sterilized squares of lint in the solution and apply over closed eyes.

Calendula	Soothes sore or inflamed eyes.
Chamomile	Reduces inflammation and removes a "tired look".
Cornflower	Soothes and helps reduce puffiness.
Fennel Seed	Removes inflammation and gives sparkle.
Horsetail	Reduces redness and swollen eyelids and can be effective for styes. (Must boil for 30 minutes.)
Mallow	Softens skin around the eyes.
Mint	Minimizes dark circles under the eyes.
Rose	Softens skin around the eyes.
Wormwood	Reduces eye inflammation and redness; dab on a decoction with cotton wool.