Eyebright

Western Bulk Herbs – Eyebright

Eyebright heals mucous membranes and can help relieve congestion and improve ocular health and clarity. This herb goes to work on the mucous membranes throughout the body, with its anti-inflammatory and astringent qualities help relieve sinusitis and other congestive states. Try with goldenrod, elder flower, or goldenseal when dealing with catarrhal conditions. For relieving allergic reactions, especially those affecting the eyes, try with ephedra. Finally, try making a lotion for the eyes with this, goldenseal and witch hazel.

Latin Name:
Euphrasia officinalis

Common Names:
Euphrasia, eyewort, Augentrostkraut, Euphrasiae herba, Herba Euphrasiae, Herbe d’Euphraise

Parts Used:
Dried aerial parts

Properties:
Anti-catarrhal, astringent, anti-inflammatory

Traditional Uses:

Made into teas and poultices to help with head and eye issues. Was often brewed into wines and ales, which were recommended for daily use by herbalists of the time.

Topical Uses/Applications:

Can be made into a compress to help with conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Brewed herb compressed with goldenseal and witch hazel works well on the eyes.

Culinary Uses:

Can be made into ales and wines.

Folk Lore:

The herbalist Nicholas Culpeper assigned this herb to the star sign Leo, believing it would improve memory and relieve vertigo by improving the brain.

Chemical Properties:

Glycosides including aucubin, tannins, resins, volatile oil

Cautions:

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resources:

The New Holistic Herbal. David Hoffmann, 1990. Barnes and Noble Books, New York.
Howard, Michael (1987): Traditional Folk Remedies. Century. p.136