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Home > Health Category Library > Eyebright

Eyebright
(Euphrasia)

Description

As its name suggests, eyebright found its use in folk medicine as an eye tonic. Used in German medicine to stimulate the Immune System, eyebright is said to fight colds, Hay Fever, Coughs, congestion, and Sore Throats. Because it contains tannins, eyebright exhibits astringent properties.

Herbal Uses

The use of eyebright dates back to the Middle Ages, when the herb was used as an eyewash for irritations and Infections. Eyebright is believed to have been used to treat eye problems not so much because of its effectiveness but because of the appearance of its bloodshot petals (1). This idea is based on the medieval philosophy the Signature of Doctrines, which states that the appearance of herbs reveals their proper use.

Suggested Intakes

Traditional dosages consist of boiled tea with 1 tablespoon of eyebright. This formula is used as an eyewash or taken internally three times daily.

Eyebright should be used in weak solutions when applying directly to the eye.

Supplemental Uses

Eyebright contains astringent substances and volatile oils, which give the herb antibacterial properties. Unfortunately, no scientific evidence exists to verify its effectiveness.

Uses of eyebright:

Mild eye-wash
Reduces effects of Inflammation

Safety and Precautions

Few studies have been done on the safety of eyebright. While it appears relatively safe when ingested, it can cause Itching, redness, and tearing of the Eyes (2).

Safety in young children, nursing and pregnant women, and patients with severe liver or kidney disease has not been determined.

Interactions and Contra-Indications

Avoid topical use in conjunction with the Acne medication tretinoin (retinoic acid, Vitamin A acid).

Eyebright may potentiate the antibiotic action with Echinacea. Milk or cream eliminates the interaction.

References

1. Lawrence Review of Natural Products. Eyebright monograph. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons Division, J.B. Lipincott Company, 1996.
2. Duke JA. CRC handbook of medicinal herbs. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1985: 141.

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