Most office jobs these days require a lot of time staring at a computer screen. This can lead to tired eyes and eye strain, which can make you less productive and cause some pretty severe irritation. There are plenty of ways to reduce eye strain by simply changing your workspace lighting, cleaning and changing the way your monitor is positioned, as well as taking frequent breaks and blinking more regularly. If simple lifestyle changes don’t work, there are also some herbal treatments and eye drops that can help you kick eye strain to the curb.
Rose Water
Soak cotton balls in rose water and put them over your eyes for 15-20 minutes to relax and soothe tired, strained eyes. Rose water is also good for undereye bags, so this remedy is a two for one. You can also put rose water directly into your eyes if you are experiencing redness along with eye strain.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is high in antioxidants, which attack free radicals that could damage the eyes while fortifying the capillaries around your eyes. Ginkgo biloba also improves circulation, allowing for better blood flow to the eyes. Ginkgo biloba is available as a supplement in most health food stores.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a natural relaxant to the blood vessels in your eyes. If you are straining to read things that are too close to you or are working in dimly-lit offices, passionflower will help you see better. Passionflower is available as a supplement or as a delicious tea.
Bilberry
British pilots in World War II used bilberry to improve their night vision for late-night attacks. It is no wonder that it is great for eye strain as well. Studies have shown that bilberry actually improves eyesight and reduces inflammation in the eyes due to eye strain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Research has shown that two different types of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in flaxseeds, salmon and other fish, are beneficial to eye health. Omega-3s protect against degeneration and fight dry-eye syndrome. Omega 3s also assist with the drainage of intraocular fluid from the eyes. Try adding extra fish or flaxseed to your diet.
Rooibos
Rooibos, or aspalathus linearis, is a plant common to South Africa. Its effects are more for the skin around the eyes than the eyes themselves, but it could still be helpful at reducing inflammation and fighting free radicals. Rooibos is available as an oil, supplement or tea.
Artificial Tears
There are many different types of eye drops. Some are for irritation and inflammation, some treat allergies, and some (that you can get from a physician) are steroidal and can help strengthen the eyes and regenerate damaged tissue. Find the eye drops that are right for you, and keep them on hand for when eye strain gets the best of you.
These remedies and a few lifestyle changes should have you well on your way to a life free of eye strain. However, if eye strain becomes severe, consult a physician and get an eye exam to make sure there are no serious issues that need to be addressed.
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[Source: The Health Site, Livestrong, MedicineNet, Mayo Clinic, WebMD]
