Eyebright

Species Name:  Eyebright.

Also known as: Euphrasia officinalis and euphrasia.

What is Eyebright: Eyebright is a wild plant of European origin. Its name is derived from the fact that it has been used since the Middle Ages in the treatment of eye irritation. The entire herb is used medicinally.

Home Remedies using Eyebright:

Benefits of Eyebright:

Eyebright is used for treating conditions of the eye. In the past, a solution was concocted into eyewash. It is believed that tannins contained in eyebright may have decreased inflammation of the eye as well as providing a protective film over the surface. It also contains the chemical, cafeic acid, which possibly has antibacterial properties.

Eyebright’s oral forms are used to relive mild eye irritations and reduce eyestrain, however, their safety is not endorsed, and eye drops are recommended instead.

Taken by mouth, eyebright is sometimes effective in treating respiratory conditions such as allergies, bronchitis, colds, and sinusitis.

Uses of Eyebright:

  • Nose congestion
  • Sinus congestion
  • Eye congestion
  • Inflammation of the eyelids
  • Styes on the eye
  • Symptoms of eye fatigue
  • Other disorders of the eye
  • Coughs and hoarseness

Eyebright is usually used as a topical compress for eye inflammation. It helps reduce redness and swelling in cases of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, hay fever, tired eyes, stye, and other eye irritations.

The effectiveness of using eyebright in the treatment of eye disorders has not been proven. Since application to the eyes may be unsanitary, it is not recommended to place eyebright in the eye.

Eyebright may also be taken internally as a tea. The recommendation of herbalists is to boil 10-15 grams of the dried herb in two cups of water for ten minutes. After the liquid has cooled, you use it as a compress; however, it can also be taken as a tea.

You can also purchase eyebright as an herbal supplement in capsule or liquid form. It is not recommended that you mix the two formulas, however.

Side Effects of Eyebright:

  • Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulty, closing of the throat, swelling or the lips, tongue, or face, or hives (rare)
  • Pressure in the eyes that causes tearing, itching, redness, or swelling of the eyelids
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Dim vision
  • Confusion
  • Weakness
  • Sneezing or runny nose
  • Toothache
  • Constipation
  • Hoarseness, cough, or shortness of breath
  • Yawning
  • Insomnia
  • Sweating
  • Increased urination