Eyebright Herb

The Eyebright herb, Euphrasia officinalis, is a small plant about two to eight inches tall often used in herbal medicine. Since the Middles Ages, it's been used to treat eye-related disorders.

About

The herb is most common in Europe, North America and Northern and Western Asia and usually flowers from July through September.

Eyebright is semi-parasitic and partially relies on the roots of nearby plants for nourishment; they require the presence of grass or other plants to grow and survive.

Medical properties of the Eyebright herb are attributed to a high concentration of tannins which makes it an excellent anti-inflammatory and astringent.

Applications

Eyebright's effective treatment of optical and eye-related issue uses the fresh juice, obtained by squeezing the plant. The juice is then infused in milk or in hot water for severe eye inflammation or cold water for mild eye inflammation. Traditionally, it is used to treat nasal and sinus congestion, coughs and sore throats, as well as allergies, colds and sinusitis, and may also be made into a compress to treat:

• Problems with sight
• Weak eyes
• Eyelid inflammation
• Styes
• Eye fatigue
• Conjunctivitis
• Blepharitis

When combined with Goldenseal, another medicinal herb, eyebright is particularly effective in treating general eye disorders.

How of Make an Infusion and Compress

To make an eyebright infusion, mix one cup of boiling water or milk with one teaspoon of dried eyebright; let it sit for 5-10 minutes before you drink. Make a fresh infusion and take three times a day until your symptoms are gone.

To make a compress:

• Place one teaspoon dried eyebright into a pot filled with one pint of water
• Bring to a boil for 10 minutes
• Let the mixture cool until lukewarm
• Douse a towel made of cotton, wool, muslin or gauze
• Wring out well
• Place moistened towel over your eyes
• Rest for 15 minutes

Repeat multiple times daily until your symptoms have subsided.

Precautions

If eye problems do not improve after using Eyebright for a few days, seek advice from your doctor.

While side effects and allergic reactions associated with Eyebright are extremely rare, you should be aware that occasionally some people experience an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion
• Weakness,
• Sneezing
• Constipation
• Toothache
• Insomnia
• Sweating

If these or any other unusual symptoms occur, see a doctor immediately.

Used to treat a variety of conditions in and around the eye, Eyebright herb is a safe, effective remedy.

Return from Eyebright Herb back to Herbs Index

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