This turns out to be an important field of knowledge for those who work extensively on computers and read a lot of books (e.g. a person like me). This blog post will compile all relevant information I find on the internet on this topic, with the aim of summarising key insights in due course (after testing them).

This is an important article: http://realtaiji.com/5-taiji-eye-exercises-to-help-you-see/

Probably the best I've come across so far: http://www.edurite.com/kbase/how-to-relax-eye-muscles

(need to read and understand it more carefully)

Tromboning – You need to hold a small object, starting at arm's length. Then you have to breathe in and move the object slowly closer to your face, until it touches your nose. You are then required to breathe out, looking at the object as you again move it away from your face. [Source] (I find that taking the finger "sausage" from arms length to nose/ and back is very relaxing for eye muscles).

SOFTLY GAZE

Don’t focus or stare; just gaze softly into the visual field. Whenever sight collapses down to a particular object, relax and gently let your peripheral vision widen again to include the whole visual field. [Source]

Sketch objects

Do not stare at an object, sketch it as if your nose was an invisible pencil. [Source]

Shuttling the O [SOURCE]

The technique is called "Shuttling the O", and has been found to relieve pain, increase blood flow circulation to the eye, and clearing the eye of debris. here is how the technique is done:

Close your eyes, and visualize a big black round O.

On the left side of the curve, put a black dot; on the right curve put another black dot.

Point your nose from one dot to another, from side to side, until the "O" seems to shuttle out of the way as you go from one dot to another.

GAZE AT A FLAME

. Keep the flame on a reasonable height in the front of the eyes. It should be at a distance of about three feet. In the first, stage gaze at the flame without winking for sometimes. Then close the eyes gently. Open the eyes again and try to gaze at the fame for a longer period now. Finally close the eyes and stay at rest with closed eyes. Continue this practice for one week daily for five to seven minutes. In second stage gaze at the flame as long as the eyes are not filled with water. Then close the eyes gently. Open the eyes and gaze at the flame as before. Continue this practice for the second week for fifteen to twenty minutes.

Don't push it too far. If you need to blink your eyes a little, do so. I did it lots of time and I still have 20/20 vision. Once your body starts to present 'pleasantness' in some form, then either switch to noting or your vipassana practice, OR if jhana territory is the aim, then shift your attention to the pleasantness within the body and make it fullbodied by expanding that awareness panoramically filling up the whole mind/body with such pleasantness. Don't worry about the afterimage. I hardly ever focused on it and it always disappeared after a few minutes. I shifted all focus to 'pleasantness' manifesting in the body due to concentrating the mind. Experiment! [Source]

Generally similar eye exercise hints

http://www.visionworksusa.com/computereyestrain.htm THIS IS GOOD.

This is well done: http://www.totemdog.com/eyesite/index.html

Hypnosis

Close your eyes and concentrate completely on the muscles around your eyes. Tell yourself that you are in full charge of your eye muscles.

Imagine that your eye muscles are so relaxed and heavy, you can't open them. As you practice increasing your focus and you enter a state of self hypnosis, you'll actually find it difficult to open your eyes.

Practice relaxing your eye muscles for a few minutes, and then allow your eyes to slowly open. Continue to breathe deeply as you continue to relax the other muscle groups of your body. [Source]

Much less useful

http://www.wikihow.com/Relax-Your-Eyes

http://oceancomforts4u.hubpages.com/hub/RELAX-YOUR-EYES-10-TIPS-FOR-DEALING-WITH-COMPUTER-EYE-STRAIN

http://www.yogawiz.com/yoga-office/sitting-exercises/eye-exercises.html

Eyerelax gadget

http://www.eyecollege.com/productpurchase.asp (this is too expensive, and not sure it works)

Youtube

This (above) video is not bad. In particular it asserts (correctly) that eye muscles are controlled BY THE NECK. That is a key point.

General relaxation

Let your mind think about pleasant things such as people, places, or things that bring you joy. Thinking pleasant thoughts helps relax the eyes which make them softer. The softer the eyes are the more easily they fit into their sockets. When the eyes are relaxed, they don’t stare or strain. [Source]

The above are not exercises but acupressure things and I DON'T THINK THEY WORK. THEY HAVE NO DIRECT EFFECT ON EYE MUSCLES.

General relaxation (not related much to the eyes)

That I wasted over $3000 and found the profession to be completely incompetent in basic diagnostic capability is a separate matter. This is a typical problem, anyway, for  "doctors" to be totally ignorant about the human body.

As usual, I was left to my own resources, with doctors not having the SLIGHTEST clue, nor a helpful or empathetic attitude.

Since I have now found the solution BY MYSELF (AS USUAL), let me go straight to the point without further ado. One day, when time permits, I might write more extensively about my desperate search that took me through some of the most miserable days of my life. But that is now behind me. I'm almost normal now, and nowhere suffering the kind of painful and horrid symptoms that arise from overuse of computer.

Please note that I'm not going to describe the physiology or biokinetics of the problem here, although by now I FULLY understand it, and perhaps am the ONLY one in the world to do so.

THE SOLUTION

Follow this closely. You'll be back to normal in NO TIME. 

If you have any of the following symptoms, you don't have the typical dry eyes problem 

• severe throbbing pain in the temple
• splitting soreness that doesn’t go away whether you are awake or asleep
• chronic pain inside the eyeballs
• a dragging sensation of irritation and abrasiveness 
• nauseating irritation that seems to go all the way to the leg (nausea that makes standing up virtually impossible on many occasions)
• nauseas senstation that deeply exhausts.
• squeezing/ pressing/ pulling/ sensation of eyeballs
• grating of eyeballs with a grater
• eyeballs being rubbed with sand paper
• eyeballs being burning with a scalding iron
• heavy tired eyelids that feel totally exhausted when you squeeze/ blink
• clear sensation of movement of eyelids when blinking
• glazed burning sensation (like a cool burning)
• photosensitivity (eyes burn when looking at a computer screen or TV or even while driving) 
• scratchy sensation in the eyes
• stickiness of eyelids/  lid movement felt clearly (sticky/semi-painful) (without any discharge)
• sinking/ mucky feeling in eyeballs
• stabbing sensation in and around the eyeballs, particularly  in the front
• sensation of being swollen

The key point is that dry eyes do NOT cause the terrible chronic pain I've outlined above (inside the eyeballs). The fact that the eyeballs (not just the corneal surface) are affected is a clear symptom – when taken together with other predisposing information about computer use – that the problem is of the EYEBALL muscles. 

This can be readily confirmed by a quick visit to a doctor who will confirm whether (a) the glands appear to be normal and there is  (b) no damage to corneal surface.

So, if this describes YOUR symptoms then here's the solution.

Step 1: Eyeball muscle release

Understand how the eyemuscles work through the video below. Then do the exercises below.

Do the following to release muscle stickiness/spasms of eyeball muscles

a) Do the following eyeball movements. You must hear a creaking sound. That is the sound of eye muscles being released.

Gaze By looking at the computer/ book for extensive periods, eyeball muscles become "stuck" (tired), and the REVERSE action is needed. The idea is NOT to stare or "look" at a distant object. That won't help. The idea is for a gentle gaze that absorbs the ENTIRE scene. I like the description here. The key is (a) relaxation, (b) looking EVERYWHERE at the same time, and (c) looking at something one by one. Scan the scene gently.

"maintain relaxed and receptive focus on an object, while at the same time allowing your peripheral vision to be open and wide. In other words, be aware of the object in the context of the entire space".

It is quite possible to get such a relaxed gaze INSIDE A ROOM. But ideally, looking at wide angle scenery is best.

Let your eyeballs fall into the earth: Shut the eyes and TALK to the eye muscles, asking them to let go the eyeball (I.E. DISCONNECT) so it can fall into the earth. This may sound odd, but if done for 5-10 minutes it is quite effective in letting go the tension inside eye muscles. This is particularly useful when lying down on one side. Imagine the eyeball sinking through one cheek.

Scrunch the eyes

The good news is that the upper eyelid muscle is connected to the same root as a few other eye muscles. It is therefore possible to relax inner eye muscles (at least partly) by scrunching the eye tightly and releasing it (upon releasing imagine that eyeballs are disconnected to the muscles and falling to the earth)

Suck in the eyeballs

This contracts eyeball muscles. This is particularly important. Suck in the eyeballs and point them to various corners of the eyesocket (with eyes closed, of course). This is a very hard squeezing sensation with the focus on compressing and then releasing eye muscles in different positions. This is the FASTEST way to experience relief.

Push out the eyeballs

This lengthens eyeball muscles. This is particularly hard and I'm not sure whether it really works. But may help when one is sucking in the eyeball, to also push them out.

Step 2: Release neck muscles

Now release the entire neck muscles. It is possible (as happened in my case) that nerves that serve eye muscles are impacted by tight neck muscles. [See the history of this discovery - a discovery that I believe none has any clue about]. With this, pain levels should drop like a rock, leading to an almost normal situation. At this point further work based on steps one and two will help. Just do more of these. Like any other RSI, the full release of extremely tight muscles can take years of exercise.

Step 3: Eyedrops may now help

Should it be necessary at this stage, a few simple eyedrops (e.g. thera tears/ systane) will NOW actually help. As dry eyes are NOT the underlying problem, these are merely a palliative, providing temporary relief. The solution is essentially in steps one and two, done for many days/months. (It is early days for me. I'm sure, though, that these two steps will entirely fix my problem.)

Step 4: Recover normal neck posture

Make sure that your neck posture is perfectly aligned and comfortable. In this regard the advice from the Alexander technique is very useful:

• Think of allowing the neck to be free.
• Allow the head to go forward and up.
• Allow the back to lengthen and widen.

I have found it useful to think of myself as a schoolchild in year one, wandering around the walk to school, stopping by little ponds, pausing to look at tadlpoles. The goal being complete relaxation and the feeling of natural walking and sitting.

Note that proper neck posture will look like this (the one on the right).

Now, what if you actually have dry eyes?

Given the strong overlap with symptoms experienced through tight eyeball muscles and dry eyes, I'm almost certain now that dry eyes is caused by compression of nerves that feed the glands. I don't have much time to study this hypothesis, but my guess is that the exercise and steps outlined above will ALSO dramatically reduce dry eye symptoms.

Note: if you DO have dry eyes you'll find an endless set of resources on this blog, based on my research/ struggle over the past 18 months. Some of this might be useful. Or it might be a waste. Anyway, this merely goes to show that the medical profession in this area is in TOTAL DISARRAY, and doesn't have ANY useful understanding about the eye. 

You are on your own. Best of luck.

Addendum

See this: http://sabhlokcity.com/2012/04/eye-problem-chapter-now-closed-despite-the-plethora-of-incompetent-doctors/

In DED, the eye can be white and quiet despite an inflamed tear film. Elevated levels of MMP-9, especially in the setting of artificial tears’ not being effective, confirms the diagnosis of DED and should trigger the use of antiinflammatory therapies such as cyclosporine. [Source]

A negative InflammaDry test suggests a noninflammatory cause of DED.

20 Painkillers in Your Kitchen

Make muscle pain a memory with ginger

When Danish researchers asked achy people to jazz up their diets with ginger, it eased muscle and joint pain, swelling and stiffness for up to 63 percent of them within two months. Experts credit ginger’s potent compounds called gingerols, which prevent the production of pain-triggering hormones. The study-recommended dose: Add at least 1 teaspoon of dried ginger or 2 teaspoons of chopped ginger to meals daily.

Cure a toothache with cloves

Got a toothache and can’t get to the dentist? Gently chewing on a clove can ease tooth pain and gum inflammation for two hours straight, say UCLA researchers. Experts point to a natural compound in cloves called eugenol, a powerful, natural anesthetic. Bonus: Sprinkling a ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves on meals daily may also protect your ticker. Scientists say this simple action helps stabilize blood sugar, plus dampen production of artery-clogging cholesterol in as little as three weeks.

Heal heartburn with cider vinegar

Sip 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 8 ounces of water before every meal, and experts say you could shut down painful bouts of heartburn in as little as 24 hours. “Cider vinegar is rich in malic and tartaric acids, powerful digestive aids that speed the breakdown of fats and proteins so your stomach can empty quickly, before food washes up into the esophagus, triggering heartburn pain,” explains Joseph Brasco, M.D., a gastroenterologist at the Center for Colon and Digestive Diseases in Huntsville, AL.

Erase earaches with garlic

Painful ear infections drive millions of Americans to doctors’ offices every year. To cure one fast, just place two drops of warm garlic oil into your aching ear twice daily for five days. This simple treatment can clear up ear infections faster than prescription meds, say experts at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Scientists say garlic’s active ingredients (germanium, selenium, and sulfur compounds) are naturally toxic to dozens of different pain-causing bacteria. To whip up your own garlic oil gently simmer three cloves of crushed garlic in a half a cup of extra virgin olive oil for two minutes, strain, then refrigerate for up to two weeks, suggests Teresa Graedon, Ph.D., co-author of the book, Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy. For an optimal experience, warm this mix slightly before using so the liquid will feel soothing in your ear canal.

Chase away joint and headache pain with cherries

Latest studies show that at least one in four women is struggling with arthritis, gout or chronic headaches. If you’re one of them, a daily bowl of cherries could ease your ache, without the stomach upset so often triggered by today’s painkillers, say researchers at East Lansing ’s Michigan State University . Their research reveals that anthocyanins, the compounds that give cherries their brilliant red color, are anti-inflammatories 10 times stronger than ibuprofen and aspirin. “Anthocyanins help shut down the powerful enzymes that kick-start tissue inflammation, so they can prevent, as well as treat, many different kinds of pain,” explains Muraleedharan Nair, Ph.D., professor of food science at Michigan State University . His advice: Enjoy 20 cherries (fresh, frozen or dried) daily, then continue until your pain disappears.

Fight tummy troubles with fish

Indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases…if your belly always seems to be in an uproar, try munching 18 ounces of fish weekly to ease your misery. Repeated studies show that the fatty acids in fish, called EPA and DHA, can significantly reduce intestinal inflammation, cramping and belly pain and, in some cases, provide as much relief as corticosteroids and other prescription meds. “EPA and DHA are powerful, natural, side effect-free anti-inflammatories, that can dramatically improve the function of the entire gastrointestinal tract,” explains biological chemist Barry Sears, Ph.D., president of the Inflammation Research Foundation in Marblehead , MA . For best results, look for oily fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel, trout and herring.

Prevent PMS with yogurt

Up to 80 percent of women will struggle with premenstrual syndrome and its uncomfortable symptoms, report Yale researchers. The reason: Their nervous systems are sensitive to the ups and downs in estrogen and progesterone that occur naturally every month. But snacking on 2 cups of yogurt a day can slash these symptoms by 48 percent, say researchers at New York ’s Columbia University. “Yogurt is rich in calcium, a mineral that naturally calms the nervous system, preventing painful symptoms even when hormones are in flux,” explains Mary Jane Minkin, M.D., a professor of gynecology at Yale University.

Tame chronic pain with turmeric

Studies show turmeric, a popular East Indian spice, is actually three times more effective at easing pain than aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen, plus it can help relieve chronic pain for 50 percent of people struggling with arthritis and even fibromyalgia, according to Cornell researchers. That’s because turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, naturally shuts down cyclooxygenase 2, an enzyme that churns out a stream of pain-producing hormones, explains nutrition researcher Julian Whitaker, M.D. and author of the book,Reversing Diabetes. The study-recommended dose: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of this spice daily onto any rice, poultry, meat or vegetable dish.

End endometrial pain with oats

The ticket to soothing endometriosis pain could be a daily bowl of oatmeal. Endometriosis occurs when little bits of the uterine lining detach and grow outside of the uterus. Experts say these migrating cells can turn menstruation into a misery, causing so much inflammation that they trigger severe cramping during your period, plus a heavy ache that drags on all month long. Fortunately, scientists say opting for a diet rich in oats can help reduce endometrial pain for up to 60 percent of women within six months. That’s because oats don’t contain gluten, a trouble-making protein that triggers inflammation in many women, making endometriosis difficult to bear, explains Peter Green, M.D., professor of medicine at Colombia University .

Soothe foot pain with salt

Experts say at least six million Americans develop painful ingrown toenails each year. But regularly soaking ingrown nails in warm salt water baths can cure these painful infections within four days, say scientists at California ’s Stanford University . The salt in the mix naturally nixes inflammation, plus it’s anti-bacterial, so it quickly destroys the germs that cause swelling and pain. Just mix 1 teaspoon of salt into each cup of water, heat to the warmest temperature that you can comfortably stand, and then soak the affected foot area for 20 minutes twice daily, until your infection subsides.

Prevent digestive upsets with pineapple

Got gas? One cup of fresh pineapple daily can cut painful bloating within 72 hours, say researchers at California ’s Stanford University . That's because pineapple is natually packed with proteolytic enzymes, digestive aids that help speed the breakdown of pain-causing proteins in the stomach and small intestine, say USDA researchers.

Relax painful muscles with peppermint

Suffering from tight, sore muscles? Stubborn knots can hang around for months if they aren’t properly treated, says naturopath Mark Stengler, N.D., author of the book, The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies. His advice: Three times each week, soak in a warm tub scented with 10 drops of peppermint oil. The warm water will relax your muscles, while the peppermint oil will naturally soothe your nerves — a combo that can ease muscle cramping 25 percent more effectively than over-the-counter painkillers, and cut the frequency of future flare-ups in half, says Stengler.

Give your back some TLC with grapes

Got an achy back? Grapes could be the ticket to a speedy recovery. Recent studies at Ohio State University suggest eating a heaping cup of grapes daily can relax tight blood vessels, significantly improving blood flow to damaged back tissues (and often within three hours of enjoying the first bowl). That’s great news because your back’s vertebrae and shock-absorbing discs are completely dependent on nearby blood vessels to bring them healing nutrients and oxygen, so improving blood flow is essential for healing damaged back tissue, says Stengler.

Wash away pain injuries with water

Whether it’s your feet, your knees or your shoulders that are throbbing, experts at New York ’s Manhattan College , say you could kick-start your recovery in one week just by drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Why? Experts say water dilutes, and then helps flush out, histamine, a pain-triggering compound produced by injured tissues. “Plus water is a key building block of the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones, your joints’ lubricating fluid, and the soft discs in your spine,” adds Susan M. Kleiner, Ph.D., author of the book, The Good Mood Diet. “And when these tissues are well-hydrated, they can move and glide over each other without causing pain.” One caveat: Be sure to measure your drinking glasses to find out how large they really are before you start sipping, she says. Today’s juice glasses often hold more than 12 ounces, which means five servings could be enough to meet your daily goal.

Heal sinus problems with horseradish

Latest studies show sinusitis is the nation’s number one chronic health problem. And this condition doesn’t just spur congestion and facial pain, it also makes sufferers six times more likely to feel achy all-over. Horseradish to the rescue! According to German researchers, this eye-watering condiment naturally revs up blood flow to the sinus cavities, helping to open and drain clogged sinuses and heal sinus infections more quickly than decongestant sprays do. The study-recommended dose: One teaspoon twice daily (either on its own, or used as a sandwich or meat topping) until symptoms clear.

Beat bladder infections with blueberries

Eating 1 cup of blueberries daily, whether you opt for them fresh, frozen or in juice form, can cut your risk of a urinary tract infection (UTIs) by 60 percent, according to researchers at New Jersey’s Rutgers University. That's because blueberries are loaded with tannins, plant compounds that wrap around problem-causing bacteria in the bladder, so they can’t get a toehold and create an infection, explains Amy Howell, Ph.D. a scientist at Rutgers University .

Heal mouth sores with honey

Dab painful canker and cold sores with unpasteurized honey four times daily until these skin woes disappear, and they’ll heal 43 percent faster than if you use a prescription cream, say researchers at the Dubai Specialized Medical Center in the United Arab Emirates . Raw honey’s natural enzymes zap inflammation, destroy invading viruses and speed the healing of damaged tissues, say the study authors.

Fight breast pain with flax

In one recent study, adding 3 tablespoons of ground flax to their daily diet eased breast soreness for one in three women within 12 weeks. Scientists credit flax’s phytoestrogens, natural plant compounds that prevent the estrogen spikes that can trigger breast pain. More good news: You don’t have to be a master baker to sneak this healthy seed into your diet. Just sprinkle ground flax on oatmeal, yogurt, applesauce or add it to smoothies and veggie dips.

Cure migraines with coffee

Prone to migraines? Try muscling-up your painkiller with a coffee chaser. Whatever over-the-counter pain med you prefer, researchers at the National Headache Foundation say washing it down with a strong 12- ounce cup of coffee will boost the effectiveness of your medication by 40 percent or more. Experts say caffeine stimulates the stomach lining to absorb painkillers more quickly and more effectively.

Tame leg cramps with tomato juice

At least one in five people regularly struggle with leg cramps. The culprit? Potassium deficiencies, which occur when this mineral is flushed out by diuretics, caffeinated beverages or heavy perspiration during exercise. But sip 10 ounces of potassium-rich tomato juice daily and you'll not only speed your recovery, you'll reduce your risk of painful cramp flare-ups in as little as 10 days, say UCLA researchers. 

There are many other herbs that have anti-inflammatory properties. I suspect that many plant based foods have anti-inflammatory effects whether we know it or not, which is one reason why a diet rich in fruits & vegetables is generally beneficial for health. [Source]

Nonstarchy and low-starch vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, and salad greens, contain several anti-inflammatory nutrients. First, their antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which promote inflammation. Second, greens are rich in alpha-linolenic acid, the basic building block of omega-3 fatty acids. Thirds, greens also contain small amounts of GLA, which enhances the anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids.

Cruciferous vegetables. These veggies, which include broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale, are also loaded with antioxidants. But they provide one other ingredient — sulfur — that the body needs to make its own high-powered antioxidants. [Source]

Greens are chock full of magnesium a nutrient that most of us are typically deficient in anyways, eating as many servings of green vegetables daily as possible will serve you well. A diet of brown rice, vegetables, lean meats, non-citrus fruits, water and green tea is the ultimate goal to work towards. [Source]

Eating such things is good, more generally: it can reduce heart disease risk, keep existing cardiac problems in check, reduce blood triglyceridesand blood pressure, and soothe tender and stiff arthritic joints. [Source]

Blueberries

My favorite anti-inflammatory food is BLUEBERRIES

I prescribe one cup of frozen blueberries daily to all my patients with inflammation, heart disease, or diabetes. Most people are happy to add such a delicious food in to their diet, but occasionally I will have a patient balk at the cost of eating so many blueberries each month.If you are already taking medications or other supplements, you are clearly paying quite a bit for your health already so adding a superfood in like blueberries is well worth the $30 a month. You could buy a bottle of some herbal product for that same price, or you could just enjoy eating blueberries.

Blueberries are highly anti-inflammatory and their proanthocyanin behavior is fundamentally protective to our cardiovascular system.

In my opinion there is not a more delicious, advantageous way to improve your health than by eating a cup of frozen blueberries a day.

I like to enjoy them as an evening snack, and let them sit out and thaw about 20 minutes before eating.

You can also add them to smoothies or your morning cereal.

Cooking them does not destroy their important pigments, and the freezing process actually makes these proanthocyanins more bioavailable for absorption. A rare exception to the rule that fresh is best! [Source]

Cherries

A study in the April 2006 Journal of Nutrition showed that eating cherries daily can significantly reduce inflammation. Cherries are also packed with antioxidants and relatively low 

on the glycemic index. Tip: Frozen cherries are available all year long and make a tasty dessert with a little yogurt or cheese. [Source]

Ginger

Ginger root, another common spice, also contains a number of scientifically proven pain relieving agents. Ginger contains a protein-digesting enzyme called zingibain, which appears to relieve arthritis pain by reducing inflammation. In fact, the anti-inflammatory activity of ginger compares favorably with aspirin. Ginger root is also rich in two groups of compounds known as the shaogals and gingerols. These compounds are powerfully antioxidant, thus helping to prevent cells from premature destruction due to exposure to environmental toxins and by-products of metabolism. Even more, these compounds are potent anti-inflammatory agents, and are proven to relieve inflammation throughout the body. Given that oxidation and inflammation are part and parcel of all chronic degenerative diseases, ginger can play a key role in disease risk reduction. [Source]

Take one to two capsules (500 to 1,000 mg) twice a day with food. You can also use ginger liberally in foods or make fresh ginger tea. Here too, you will need to be patient for the benefits to show. [Source]

Turmeric

One of the very most effective and potent natural anti-inflammatory agents is curcumin, derived from turmeric root. Turmeric is a yellow spice native to Asia, widely enjoyed as both a food and a dye. Turmeric is the yellow in curry powder, and curcumin is a resinous compound found in turmeric root. Extensively well studied for its anti-inflammatory powers, curcumin is scientifically proven to be highly effective at relieving pain, and very safe. Like the NSAID’s, curcumin inhibits COX2. But unlike the NSAID’s, it does not do so selectively. Instead, curcumin also affects the activity of other key factors in inflammation, including NF-kappaB, PPAR Gamma transcription factors, and 5-LOX. By inhibiting the activity of all these aspects of inflammation, curcumin delivers far superior anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving activity than most drugs.[Source]

Turmeric is a great herbal remedy for inflammation, including arthritis, tendonitis & auto-immune disorders. Take 400 to 600 milligrams of turmeric extracts (available in tablets or capsules) three times per day. Whole turmeric is best. It may take two months for good effect so be patient. Oh, curry mixtures usually contain a good amount of turmeric so feel free to have lots of curried dishes if you prefer. [Source]

Curcuma longa (Turmeric): This Indian spice comes from the roots of Curcuma longa and contains diferuloyl methane (curcumin), demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin–all of which are known as curcuminoids.15 Curcumin (the lipid-soluble component in turmeric)16 has been shown to exert an anti-inflammatory activity in several clinical studies, due in part to the inhibition of COX-2 enzyme15,17-20 and iNOS.20 In particular, the inhibition of COX-2 was significant in colon cancer cells, which makes curcumin important as a colon cancer preventive agent,17,19 since the COX-2 enzyme plays a key function in the progression of this disease.21,22 The inhibition of the COX-2 enzyme is achieved by suppressing the activation of NF-kB, a eukaryotic transcription factor.18 Curcumin has also been shown to have an effect on the release of inflammatory mediators (eg, eicosanoids), which may further explain its role as an anti -inflammatory agent.23 However, the water-soluble portion of turmeric that contains turmerin does not have an anti-inflammatory effect,16 although it has been shown to have antidepressant effects that may be due to monoamine oxidase inhibition in the brain.24 According to Commission E in Germany (the German authority on evaluating herbal preparations), the recommended dose is 1.5 to 3 g of cut root daily; preparations of Curcuma longa are infusion powders, tinctures (1:5), and fluid extracts.13 The use of curcumin is contraindicated in bile duct obstruction because it enhances the secretion of bile.14

Rosemary

the common spice rosemary, also demonstrate powerful anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving properties. [Source]

Amazon bark cats’ claw

 [Source]

Devils claw is dual use: one of the better pain-relieving & anti inflammatory herbs. Devil’s claw is especially useful for arthritis. [Source]

Hops

Hops, for example, an herb used in beer brewing, contains a group of compounds called the humulones, which are being studied for their significant pain-relieving properties.

Allanblackia  floribunda

http://idosi.org/bri/2(1)09/4.pdf

Image: http://www.ecologicalmuseum.netsons.org/archivio_immagini/allanblackia_floribunda.JPG

Omega-3 fatty acids

In canola, flax seed, pumpkin seed

http://nutrition.about.com/od/dietsformedicaldisorders/a/antiinflamfood.htm

, the anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish (particularly cold water species, such as salmon), flaxseed, and leafy green vegetables. The body converts the fatty acids in these foods into more potent pro- and anti inflammatory prostaglandins. [Source]

Guggul

The resin secreted by the guggul tree are found to have anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects comparable to commercial drugs such as ibuprofen, a type of NSAID, and clofibrate, a drug used for reducing serum cholesterol, in some studies. It may also be useful in relieving pains due to fibromyalgia and rheumatism.

Guggul can be found in their raw forms as gums and resins, and in powder, capsules and tablets. As with any other medicinal herb, consult a knowledgeable herbalist or physician before self-medicating. [Source]

Holy basil oil

Holy basil oil is found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other medicinal properties that are effective against arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, peptic ulcers as well as chemotherapy and radiation poisoning.[Source]

Neem

neem oil is used in Ayurvedic medicine to calm inflammatory skin conditions, joint pains and muscle aches. Extracts of neem leaves and seeds have also demonstrated anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-diabetic and anti-viral properties in various studies.

All parts of this amazing tree can be used. Neem shoots and flowers are eaten as vegetables in India, while the leaves are added to foods as a spice to impart a unique bitter flavor. Neem oil can also be applied topically to treat skin irritations, and sprayed on plants to control pests.[Source]

Licorice

the sweet root of this plant is commonly used to make candies. Healing-wise, the strong anti-inflammatory compounds found in licorice root have been found to be effective against coughs, colds, mouth ulcers, peptic ulcers and even chronic hepatitis infection.

Licorice is available as chopped roots, which can be brewed as tea, and also in powder and capsule forms.[Source]

Licorice root is an effective, natural anti-inflammatory herb root. Note that long-term use can raise blood pressure and lead to potassium loss. Dose is one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon of extract up to three times daily. [Source]

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory activity.29 The aglycone, b-glycyrrhetinic acid, may cause this action of glycyrrhizin.29 Glycyrrhizic acid, another major constituent in licorice, also has anti-inflammatory activity.30 Glycyrrhizin, in addition to having anti-inflammatory actions, may act also as a chemoprotective agent against tumors.31 The dose of licorice is 5 to 15 g daily of cut or powdered roots and should contain 200 to 600 mg of glycyrrhizin.13 Licorice use is contraindicated in patients with high blood pressure, cardiac diseases, or liver cirrhosis.14

Ashwagandha

having powerful anti-inflammatory properties, is specific for treating arthritic and rheumatic conditions

Eye problems: A combination of root powder of Ashwagandha, fruit powder of amalaki and cardamom with sugar or honey taken daily ensures visual acuity. It can be taken to preserve or promote eyesight. [Source]

Arnica

Arnica is one of those herbs that are only used externally. Its also one of the few herbs to have gained official recognition from the medical establishment. The UK authorities recently granted a license to the manufacturers of Arnica Gel, which is used on bruises and sprains. [Source]

 Arnica is a widely used herbal remedy for inflammation in addition to a salve for bruises & sprains. Use as directed. [Source]

Arnica montana (Arnica): This herb is commonly used for treating bruises and swelling, although several clinical trials cast doubt on its efficacy.34-36 The presence of sesquiterpene lactones, such as helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, in arnica provides this herb with anti-inflammatory properties.37 This is attributed to inhibition of the activation of transcription factors NF-kB and NF-AT.38 Helenalin, the most active lactone, exerts its anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the activation of transcription factor NF-kB, which is responsible for the transcription of genes involved in encoding mediators for the inflammatory process.37,39 Helenalin was also found to possess some cytotoxic effects against small cell carcinoma of the lung and colorectal cancer cells in cell culture studies.40 The recommended doses are 2 g of herb/100 mL for the aqueous infusion, one part herb and five parts fatty oil for the oil, and for the ointment, not more than 15% of oil.13 Sesquiterpene lactones may cause contact or allergic dermatitis when applied externally.14 The internal use of arnica is not recommended due to its toxicity on major organs such as the kidneys and the liver.14

Dandelion

Some people think of it as a weed, whereas it reminds others of a childhood spent outside playing in the grass. For herbologists though, Dandelion is a powerful remedy that has been registered as a drug in Canada.  [Source]

Dong Quai

Dong Quai is another star of Chinese traditional medicine. True to the principles of Oriental herbology, it has a balancing effect on the entire body and is more of a holistic remedy for the female body than a specific cure.  [Source]

Goldenseal

Goldenseal was originally used by Native Americans for skin disorders, digestive complaints and even as a cancer remedy. In more modern times, Goldenseal has gained in popularity and has been used for wound healing and many types of infection, as well as a powerful anti-fungal agent.  [Source]

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola is a staple of Indian Ayurvedic medicine, where it taken as a tea during meditation practices to increase psychic sensitivity and achieve a higher state of spiritual being. It is also a tremendous natural source of vitamins and minerals, and a useful anti-inflammatory.  [Source]

Raspberry Leaf

Although raspberries are consumed throughout the world, raspberry leaf is one of those herbal remedies that not many people have heard of. That's probably because it has a very narrow focus – 90% of the time it is used by pregnant women.  [Source]

It does have other benefits though – as an anti-inflammatory and for ailments including stomach upsets and throat infections.

Reishi

Similar in its effects to Maitake, the Reishi mushroom is a powerful immune system booster that has been used to treat cancer and relieve the symptoms of chemotherapy. Its Chinese name, ‘lingzhi’, literally translates to ‘herb of immortality’. Unlike Maitake however, it also has beneficial effects on blood pressure, cholesterol and respiratory conditions. The best thing about Reishi though, is that it has no known side effects!  [Source]

Aloe Vera

See my blog post.

Boswellin

is a good natural anti inflammatory remedy especially for conditions like fibromyalgia. The dosage is two capsules twice a day or follow the product label.[Source]

Bromelain

is an anti-inflammatory enzyme. Bromelain is found in pineapple so eat lots of fresh pineapple. You can also buy pleasant tasting, chewable bromelain tablets. [Source]

Papaya

 contains an enzyme that has anti inflammatory effects. Here too you can simply chew on good tasting tablets several times daily. [Source]

St. John's wort

is better known for its antidepressant effect but also an herbal remedy for inflammation. Follow label directions. [Source]

White willow bark

is also anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. Use supplement as directed. [Source]

Salix alba (White Willow): The role of salicylates in inflammation and pain management is well documented in medicine.2 The bark of this plant contains salicin.32 Following oral administration of salicin, it was found in serum mainly in the form of salicylic acid.33 After an oral dose (240 mg) was given to healthy volunteers, the Tmax was less than two hours and Cmax was 1.2 mg/L, respectively.33 Salicylic acid is eliminated in urine as salicyluric acid.33 A daily dose equivalent to 60 to 120 mg of salicin is recommended by the German Commission E.13 Willow use can trigger an allergic response in individuals sensitive to willow or to aspirin.14

German Chamomile

Matricaria recutita (German Chamomile): The dried flowers of this plant are commonly used for their sedative and spasmolytic properties.7 In addition, chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory activities.8 Matricaria contains several flavones (ie, polyphenolic pigments of some plants),9 namely, apigenin,7,10 luteolin, and matricine.8 When applied topically, the flavonoids were found to penetrate intact skin deeply to exert an anti-inflammatory effect.10 Evidence suggests that apigenin may generally inhibit cytokine-induced gene expression.11 Matricine does not have anti-inflammatory activity. However, chamazulene, a transformation product of matricine, was found to possess anti-inflammatory properties.8 Compared to a hydrocortisone 1% cream, the anti-inflammatory effect of a chamomile cream was weaker.12 The recommended dose of Matricaria recutita flowers is 3 g three times daily; Matricaria is available as an infusion, a fluid extract, and a tincture (1:5).13 Allergic hypersensitivity to this herb may occur in rare cases, and the herb can irritate the eyes if applied near them.14

Witch Hazel

distillate of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)

echinacea

Echinacoside in Echinacea species (echinacea), a caffeoyl derivative, is thought to be responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity in these species.

Pineapple

Ananas comosus (pineapple) contains bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory effects.

More natural anti inflammatory herbs & spices

* Angelica

* Black Pepper

* Cinnamon

* Basil

* Cardamon

* Chives

* Cilantro

* Cloves

* Garlic

* Meadowsweet

* Parsley

Kewra flowers have medicinal properties: 

Pandanus is a very important medicinal plant

However, this says that the oil should be kept out of the eyes.

Some more info: http://www.remedyspot.com/articles/135-ayurveda-medicinal-use-flowers-home.html

I tried this idea today (a towel over a hot water bowl containing a tiny bit of vicks), with rapidly blinking eyes, to allow steam to enter the eyes (but not to boil them). Seemed to feel a little better at the end of the experiment. Might do more of it in due course.

Some research from the internet on this issue

Facial sauna http://www.binglee.com.au/sanitas-sfs40-facial-sauna

See this for a dry eyes patient who uses such a thing: http://www.dryeyezone.com/talk/archive/index.php/t-7881.html?s=b81955275c59b6e0ebcb9697fa3bab68

Massage table 

http://www.dryeyezone.com/talk/showthread.php?12217-An-effective-new-way-of-applying-heat-to-the-lids-before-hygiene-and-MG-expression&highlight=steaming

I'm lucky to have a massage table with a face-hole at one end that makes it possible to breath through it while lying on the bed face down. Today I boiled a big pot of water and put it on the floor right under the massage table, exactly beneath the area where the hole is located, and I lied on the table with my face inside the hole looking down straight into the pot.

Stand near a kettle

I usually stand near the kettle when making my morning coffee to get the benefit of the steam [ibid]

Vicks brand steamer

I know someone who uses a Vicks brand steamer. You can get them as a facial-type steamer or the type that is used for the lungs if you have a cold, sinus troubles, or allergies, for example. [ibid]

Air-O-Swiss® Ultrasonic Humidifier 

This post has some qualifiers, though

other humidifiers: http://www.buyhumidifiers.co.uk/steam-humidifiers.

Turmeric has long been used for its digestive, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. The primary compounds to which turmeric's benefits are attributed are curcuminoids and volatile oils,

Anti-inflammatory agents in turmeric may be useful in relieving symptoms associated with rheumatic conditions, according to NIH. Turmeric is sometimes used as part of the course of treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It may help with the pain and loss of mobility from these conditions. Turmeric may also be useful for treating uveitis, a form of eye inflammation, states UMMC.

Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, the active ingredient that may have medicinal properties. The herb or turmeric extract cannot treat dry eye, but the curcumin component of turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation associated with dry eye. If you have inflammation, you may wish to talk with your doctor about the potential benefits of using turmeric to reduce the severity of your symptoms.

studies seem to indicate turmeric is a safe COX-2 inhibitor. Turmeric also inhibits a number of other molecules that cause inflammation such as leukotrienes. Studies have shown not only anti-inflammatory but also possible antiviral and anti-fungal properties of curcuminoids, the active compound in turmeric. [Source]

Curcumin, just like other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), has been shown to inhibit the pro-inflammatory enzymes, cyclooxygenase (COX-2), and lipoxygenase (LOX-4). However, Curcumin does not interfere with the cyclooxygenase (COX-1) enzymes that protect the mucosal lining of the stomach, as do the NSAIDs like Motrin and Advil, therefore it is a far safer anti-inflammatory choice. [Source]

Curcumin induces appropriate cellular apoptosis (normal cell death) which prevents the inflammation associated with cellular necrosis.

About 3 weeks ago, I started taking Turmeric (450 mg – twice a day) and I have not had a bad dry eye day since! [Source]

Turmeric juice

 tumeric juice a super yummy ayurvedic drink to help your liver, support immune system. 

Ingredients
5 pieces of fresh tumeric root, washed 
1 lemon 
warm water 
2 tablespoons honey or sweetner of your choice 
cold water 
Preparation
put the tumeric root, and the the lemon through your juicer, you can put the pulp back a second and maybe even a third time to get all the goodness out

leave the juicer running and pour about 1/2 cup warm water through.

mix the honey or sweetner in. if you dont want to use a concentrated sweetner, swap the lemon for an orange (it wont be as medicinal, but it will be sweeter…)

top up with 1-2 cups cold water and store in fridge