Description
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)
Eyebright is a traditional herbal medicine with a long history of use for eye and upper respiratory health. It has traditionally been used for its astringent and mucous membrane properties, particularly for conditions involving catarrh and irritation of the eyes and upper respiratory tract.
Eyebright is traditionally valued as an anticatarrhal, astringent, mucous membrane tonic and anti-inflammatory herb. Historical use included internal and external applications for supporting eyesight and clearing eye complaints, as well as use for respiratory and mucous membrane concerns.
What Eyebright May Support
Eyebright has traditionally been used to support:
- Healthy upper respiratory function, including during the common cold
- Sinus and nasal comfort, including sinusitis, hay fever and seasonal allergies
- Throat and tonsil comfort, including tonsillitis and sore throat
- Healthy respiratory mucous membranes during chronic sneezing
- Middle ear comfort associated with upper respiratory catarrh
- Recovery during the catarrhal phase that occurs during and after measles
- Healthy eye and visual function
- Eye comfort associated with conjunctivitis
- Styes and minor eye irritation
- Healthy mucous membrane function
Traditional use of Eyebright has focused particularly on eye health and upper respiratory catarrh. Historical applications included internal preparations and topical use around the eyelids for supporting eyesight and relieving eye complaints.
Key Constituents
Eyebright contains a range of naturally occurring compounds, including caffeic acid, ferulic acid, choline, amino acids, flavonoids, iridoids, phenethyl glycosides, tannins, volatile oils, bitter principles, beta-carotene, phytosterols, resin, carbohydrates and vitamin C. Notable constituents include aucubin, gallic acid, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol.
Important Information
Eyebright has traditionally been used as a bitter, astringent, cold and dry herb.
Eyebright is not recommended during pregnancy.
No contraindications are known. However, caution is advised when using Eyebright alongside antidiabetic medicines.
If you take prescription medicines, particularly antidiabetic medicines, or have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner before use.
For more detailed information about Eyebright, including its traditional uses, constituents, research and clinical considerations, please see the full herbal monograph.
Read More: Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)_Summary
