An infusion of plantain was applied to sore eyelids, and this was also used as an eyewash for sore eyes. A decoction of comfrey root or an infusion of the comfrey leaves was used as an eyewash for inflamed eyes. Rose water was also used to soothe sore eyes, as was an eyewash made from dock and one made from yarrow.
Itching eyes were thought to be cured by applying a liquid distilled from meadowsweet, according to an old remedy. An oil also soothed irritated eyes, especially when the irritation was caused by the presence of a foreign body.
Styes in the eye were thought to be relieved by the application of a teaspoon of poultice made from tea, according to another old remedy. It was also suggested that they be bathed frequently with warm milk and water or with warm poppy water. Yet another old cure advocated the taking of a dose of Epsom salts with a squeeze of lemon in it as purgative to cure styes. Since styes were thought to be a sign of poor general health, quinine and iron tonics were advised.
Swollen eyelids were thought to be alleviated by the application of grated potato mixed in a little olive oil.
Discoloration around the eye was said to be helped by scraping the fresh root of Solomon’s seal, moistening it with vinegar and applying the mixture to the area round the eye.
Herbs not already mentioned but thought to be effective in disorders of the eye included angelica, betony, borage, catnip, cowslip, feverfew, lilac, lovage, poppy, sage, viper’s bugloss and white horehound.
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