Evidence supporting the use of: Cucumber
For the health condition: Eye Problems
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cucumber has been used traditionally to support eye health, especially in treating puffiness and soothing tired eyes. The most common practice involves placing cool cucumber slices over closed eyelids. This method is rooted in folk remedies and spa traditions rather than robust scientific research.
The primary reason for using cucumber in this context is its high water content and cooling effect, which can help reduce swelling and provide temporary relief from puffiness or irritation. Cucumber also contains antioxidants and flavonoids, which, in theory, might reduce irritation. However, clinical studies specifically evaluating cucumber’s direct benefits for eye problems are lacking.
Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on the general properties of cold compresses, which can reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. Some minor studies suggest that the ascorbic acid and caffeic acid in cucumber might reduce skin irritation and swelling, but these studies do not focus specifically on eye conditions.
In summary, while cucumber is widely used traditionally to support minor eye issues like puffiness and irritation, there is limited scientific validation for its efficacy beyond the benefits of simple cold therapy and hydration. It is important to note that cucumber should not be used to treat serious eye problems or infections, where medical attention is necessary.
Other ingredients used for Eye Problems
alpha-caroteneanthocyanins
berry flavor
beta-carotene
bilberry
blueberry
carrot
chamomile
citrus bioflavonoids
cryptoxanthin
cucumber
turmeric
fennel
flavonols
goldenseal
green tea
hypromellose
Japanese sophora
lutein
mango
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
rutin
selenium
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
zeaxanthin
zinc
chickweed
nut grass
boxthorne
chrysanthemum
oriental arborvitae
trichosanthes
Avens
anthocyanidins
anthocyanosides
Bai Ji
beta-zeacarotene
berry
Bioflavonoids
Bassia scoparia
Carotene (unspecified)
Carthamus
Epidermal Growth Factor
Eyebright
Flavonoids
Flavoglycosides
fibroblast growth factor
Ginkgo Flavone Glycoside
Little ironweed
Sumac
Other health conditions supported by cucumber
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Acne
Bladder Infection
Burns and Scalds
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Dehydration
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Eye Problems
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Hypertension
Indigestion
Inflammation
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification
Nephritis
Rashes and Hives
Skin Care (general)
Sunburn
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores