NaturalMedications

These easy-to-make eye soothing pads are great to use when your eyes are sore and tired after a long day. Just as effective as the kind you buy at the drugstore, but all-natural, made with ingredients you choose yourself

1 regular sized cucumber

2 tablespoons aloe vera gel (fresh, from the plant is best)

1 tablespoon distilled water

heavy-duty paper towels

Small, re-sealable container to hold the pads

Prepare the cucumber: Thoroughly wash the outside of the cucumber, but you don't have to peel it. Using a regular grater, grate the entire cucumber onto a plate, making sure not to lose any of the juice. Transfer the pile of juicy, grated cucumber into a paper towel. Squeeze to remove as much of the juice as possible, catching the juice in a small mug or bowl. Add the aloe gel to the mixture and the distilled water. Gently mix the ingredients together. Use heavy-duty paper towels or clean facecloths (that you can re-use) to make the pads. Cut into sizes to fit inside the container - either small squares or circles, depending on the shape of your container. I've found that tiny `snack-size' containers made by Rubbermaid or Tupperware work very well. Place the pile of cut pieces of paper towels or face cloths into the container, and pour the liquid mixture over top. Seal, and allow to sit overnight.

The next day: The mixture should be absorbed into the squares or rounds of paper towels. To use - lay a pad lightly on your eyes and sit and relax for at least 10-15 minutes. When you remove it your eyes will feel refreshed and wonderful!

Here's another variation for Chamomile Cucumber Eye Padsâ¦

Instead of using plain distilled water, use a tablespoon of warm distilled water, and let a bag of all-natural chamomile tea steep in the water for about ten minutes. Then follow the rest of directions as listed above. This is a fun variation to try, and makes your eyes feel great!