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Get relief from eye irritation naturally.

Cool breezes are a welcome relief after summer. But a dip in humidity and temperature can cause dry-eye symptoms to ramp up in the fall. And thanks to menopausal hormone plunges that make it harder to produce hydrating tears, research reveals that up to 70 percent of us have chronic dry eyes. To soothe symptoms naturally, try these four home remedies for dry eyes.

Enjoy waking up with a cup of coffee or tea? Your eyes do too! Research in Ophthalmology suggests sipping a caffeinated brew stimulates eye glands, spurring the production of hydrating tears within 45 minutes. And if you opt for chai tea, which is made with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, you’ll boost the benefit. These spices brim with antioxidants that ward off inflammation in tear ducts so they can function at their peak.

Or toss walnuts into oatmeal. Brigham and Women’s Hospital scientists say pecans, walnuts, peanuts, and hazelnuts brim with omega-3 fatty acids that offset hormonal swings that can leave eyes dry and itchy. Plus, their omega-6 fatty acids curb tear-hampering inflammation. Nibble on nuts daily, and you’ll cut dry-eye symptoms by 66 percent.

Lack of sleep can trigger itchiness and irritation in eyes, a study published in Clinical Ophthalmology reveals, since your body boosts fluid circulation to your eyes overnight. To catch more Zzzs and nix next-day dryness, focus on sending good thoughts to someone you love before bed. Iowa State University scientists say this calms the brain in 12 minutes so you can doze off.

Scientists based out of Japan say supplementing with maqui berries daily calms eyestrain, burning, and itching by 72 percent. The tiny, purple berries’ antioxidants shield tear-producing glands from irritation. One to try: Life Extension Tear Support (Buy from LifeExtension.com, $13.50).

This article originally appeared in our print magazine, Woman’s World.

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