Eyebright or Euphrasia rost ko Viana (syn Euphrasia Officinalis)has been used as natural remedy for all eye-related conditions since the 14th century. Legend says the plant Eyebright was known as Euphrasia in Roman times, named after the Greek migrate Euphrosyini (meaning ‘joy’). The plant actually brought joy to everyone who used it because it healed their eyes. It is even believed that the herb can improve vision even in those who are over 70 or 80.
The Euphrasia Plant
This is an annual plant that grows 2-8 inches tall. It has deep cut leaves and white or purple blooms. Its blooming season falls between July and September. It’s parasitic in nature and needs the vicinity of grass in order to thrive.
What Parts Are Used
When the plant is in its blooming stage, an extract is prepared; this is around July or August. This liquid contains several chemical compounds including tannin – Euphrasia-Tannin acid, glucose, and mannitol, which is a crystalline water-soluble sweet-tasting alcohol.
What Eyebright Does for the Eyes
In alternative medicine, this plant has been recognized as a powerful eye remedy beneficial for treatment of different types of eye infections. Plus, it has been found that eyebright promotes healing, kills eye viruses and bacteria and relieves eye dryness and pain.
Eyebright reduces eye inflammation caused by inflammation of the eyelash follicles as well as conjunctivitis – inflammation or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids. The plant extract can be used instead of eye drops.
What Eyebright Does for the Respiratory Tract
Eyebright extract is an extremely beneficial anti-inflammatory agent against hay fever, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and catarrh (inflammation of the mucous membranes). It can also be used as an astringent for dry congestion. It’s used as herbal smoking mix of the dried herb for bronchial cold. Last, but not least, it’s used for nasal irritations and seasonal allergies.
What Eyebright Does for Skin Wounds
The herb is used as an astringent to promote healing of skin wounds. It’s usually applied topically on the affected skin or used as a compress. It can also be used to treat acne and skin inflammation. Cold eyebright compresses are used to tighten skin.
The recommended dosage for adults is 2-4 grams of dried herb up to three times a day. To make tea, mix 200ml boiling water with 2 tsps. dry eyebright. Let the water get infused for fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally. Strain and drink a cup of the tea (unsweetened) three times a day. If you’re using the herb as eye drops, the recommended dosage is one drop 1-5 times a day.
Eyebright is available in the form of teabags, liquid, loose dried leaves, tablets, tincture, powder and oil. It can be obtained over-the-counter or online.