Historical use of Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) dates back to Greek Mythology, as the Eyebright herb was likened to the one of the key “graces” which was that of delight—to bring delight to the eyes of mortals.
It is a small mounding semi-parasitic herbaceous annual native to western Europe to eastern Asia, produces leaves with jagged edges and flowers which also look “jagged” and vary in color, but usually white with a yellow spot on the throat.
The genus is taxonomically complicated, as there have been many revisions and synonyms; therefore, I would expect confusion of species traded on the market.
Eyebright has a long history of herbal use for restoring eyesight and eye problems, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis and eye fatigue, and is still used today—thus its common name.
There are many cautions against its use, as preparations may not be hygenic, and people have used the wrong forms of the herb or used incorrect preparations with harm.
Eyebright also has uses for promoting respiratory or cognitive health, and it is generally thought to have an anti-inflammatory, cooling and astringent effect on membrane inflammation; thus its use in allergies, the common cold, sinusitis and others.
Eyebright contains iridoid glycosides, and one called Aucubin has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects orally or topically, as well as antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial effects in preclinical studies.
Eyebright has also been found through scientific investigation to exhibit antioxidant, astringent, hypotensive, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-epileptic, and anti-catarrhal activities.
A homeopathic preparation of Eyebright is used as eyedrops.
One study revealed that Euphrasia parviflora extracts significantly reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in eye tissues, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for eye disorders. Another study found that its antimicrobial properties effectively inhibited the growth of pathogens associated with respiratory infections, supporting its traditional uses for colds and sore throats.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
Eyebright – To Delight the Eyes 💫
