Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis Schrophulariaceae)

Other Names: Eyewort

Eyebright is commonly found in alkaline-soil lawns and meadows. It has long been used to treat eye inflammation, earning its popular name. This low-growing plant features hairy leaves and small, lip-shaped flowers with white petals marked with purple and yellow. It is widely distributed across Europe.

Parts for Use

All Above-Ground Parts

1. Plants are collected during flowering in June and July.
2. Stems are cut just above the roots and dried.
3. Eyebright is used in infusions, tinctures, decoctions, and eye lotions.

Ingredients

Eyebright contains tannins, antimicrobial iridoids with anti-inflammatory properties, phenols that inhibit bacterial growth, essential oil, flavonoids, and resins.

Use in Treatment

Eyebright’s astringent properties are highly effective for treating eye conditions. Compresses made from eyebright can relieve stye, corneal inflammation, and conjunctivitis, while also soothing tired and watery eyes. It is a common ingredient in eye lotions for these conditions. In Icelandic medicine, eyebright juice was used for various eye ailments, and Scottish Highlanders applied an infusion in milk to inflamed or irritated eyes using a bird’s feather. In 1994, Spanish researchers confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of iridoids in eyebright. Tannins enhance resistance to infections by drying and tightening body tissues, while phenols slow bacterial growth. Internally, eyebright infusions complement external eye treatments and help relieve mucosal catarrh, making it effective for nasal congestion, middle ear infections, and sinus pain. Eyebright is also used in British herbal tobacco, benefiting smokers with bronchitis by soothing irritated respiratory tracts.

Cultivation

Eyebright, a semi-parasitic plant, thrives when grown among grasses, which provide water and nutrients through their roots. Sow seeds in an untended garden area with alkaline soil.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Colds)

1. Infusion: Place one full teaspoon in a cup of boiling water, wait one minute, strain, and drink one to two cups daily.
2. Tincture: Add five drops to a glass of water and take two to three times daily. If symptoms persist, take 15 to 40 drops every three to four hours.

For External Use (Inflamed Eyelids, Stye, Conjunctivitis, Tired or Watery Eyes)

1. Eye Lotions, Eye Wash, Eye Compress: Use commercially available products under medical supervision.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Do not use eyebright during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
3. Wear sunglasses when using eyebright to protect your eyes.
4. Exceeding the recommended dose may cause itchy or irritated eyes, difficulty breathing, nausea, insomnia, or confusion.
5. Use eyebright preparations for eye problems only under medical supervision.