Eye Strain & Pretty Things

I've been overworking myself lately; especially with computer work and designing small jewelry pieces. My eyes are suffering because of it. I upped my intake of Eyebright (*traditionally used for sore eyes, and infection or inflammation of the eyes) and Bilberry (*traditionally used for vision health), but due to the intense workout I have given my eyes these past couple of days, the herbs aren't working quickly enough. So I'm adding a nice little 'me time' to my Sunday to-do list.

Years ago I would watch my Grandmother soothe her tired eyes with fresh cucumbers. She would just thinly slice a cucumber and lay a slice on each of her eyes while resting, listening to the radio. She loved the benefits of her cucumber remedy and highly recommended it to anyone interested. Today there's much talk (and recipes) about the benefits of soothing cucumber for tired, puffy eyes; and for rejuvenating facial masks. {I too suggest trying cucumbers for tired, sore eyes and homemade treatments, the benefits are wonderful}

Although I do use & recommend cucumber treatments, I also add-to or replace the cucumber "eye compresses" with herbal compresses.

Today my sore-eye treatment, my 'me time' will consist of a quick afternoon catnap, and two eye compresses. The first treatment will be my Grandmother's go-to remedy of fresh cucumber slices. I'll keep the slices on my eyes for approximately 15 - 20 minutes. I'll probably take my Grandmother's lead and listen to the radio while I rest & relax.

But my second treatment, my herbal treatment is one that I highly recommend; it's an Eyebright compress. It's very easy to make, and really makes your eyes feel comforted. Here's the recipe >

What you'll need:

• 2 tablespoons dried Eyebright leaves
• 1 cup boiling water

What to do:

• Place the dried herb in a small bowl or cup, and pour boiling water over it. Let sit for 15-minutes. 
• Strain using a sieve, and pour the liquid into a clean, glass container. You can leave the infusion on a counter to cool to room temperature, or refrigerate until cold.

How to use:

Dip clean cotton pads into the infusion and place over your closed eyes. Relax & rest for 15 to 30 minutes. Store any leftover infusion in the refrigerator. Use within 4-days.

Easy peasy, right!

*This post is aimed at the eye health benefits of Eyebright and Bilberry; however, both herbs have several medicinal uses aside from promoting eye health. Always check with your health care provider prior to the use of any herbal remedy.

And now for some "home decor eye candy"....

With spring just around the corner, I thought perhaps some bright, colorful pics might make today's winter day a bit easier to handle. Enjoy!!

{please be respectful of copyright laws - the above images are linked back to their respectful owners/blogs where I discovered them - if you use any of the images, or pin them to boards, be sure to link back to the original owners}