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Information about the herb Eyebright
Euphrasia officinalis, also known as Augentrost is part of the Scrophulariaceae plant family. Eyebright is found in England, Europe and North and West Asia.
Eyebright is a partial parasite. It contains chlorophyll but gets its water and minerals from its host.
Botanical Name: Euphrasia officinalis
Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae
Common Names: Augentrost, Euphrasia, Euphrasy, Red Eyebright
History: The name Euphrasia is from the Greek Euphrosyne, who was one of the Three Graces and was known for her joy, mirth and, gladness. Although known by the ancient Greeks it was not until 14th century that it is mentioned for 'all evils of the eye'.
Tradition: The tea of Eyebright rubbed on the eyelids was
used:
to induce and enhance clairvoyant visions
Plant Constituents of Eyebright
Contains:
- acrid bitter principle
- Euphrasia-Tannin acid
- glucose
- Mannite
- resins
- tannins
- volatile oil
Action:
- anti-catarrhal [an agent to ease catarrh (mucous inflammation)]
- anti-inflammatory [an agent to ease inflammation]
- astringent [a binding agent that contracts organic tissue, reducing secretions or discharges of mucous and fluid from the body]
- stimulant [an agent that excites or quickens the functional activity of the tissues giving more energy] to the liver to remove toxins from the body
- tonic (slight) [an agent that tones, strengthens and invigorates organs or the entire organism producing a feeling of well-being]
Medicinal Parts Used: Herb
Eyebright is used for:
Brain and Nervous System Conditions
- strengthens a weak brain and memory
Eye Conditions
- conjunctivitis
- weeping eyes
- clears the sight
- helps repair damage to eyes
- strengthens the eyes in weak eyesight
- acts specifically on the mucous linings of the eyes
and all conditions aggravated by:
- allergic reactions
- airborne pollutants
- car exhaust fumes
- chemical sprays
- cigarette smoke
- smoky atmosphere
Gastrointestinal Conditions
- benefits the digestion
- gastric disorders
Inflammatory Conditions
- catarrh
It can be used as a gargle for:
- catarrhal and inflammatory problems of the nose and throat
Respiratory Tract Conditions
- colds in general
- colds in the head
- hay fever
Other
- headaches
- mucous membrane conditions
Other Uses: It is used as an ingredient in Herbal Tobacco and smoked for
- chronic bronchitis
Eyebright has been used internally and externally to treat eye infections, afflictions and diseases, such as pink-eye and is often combined with Golden Seal. The herb should be used in an extremely diluted form.
Dosage:
Recommended dosage is as follows:
- 15-30mL per week of 1:2 fluid extract
Caution:
Eyebright should not be taken internally by persons with:
- liver problems
Do not take in large doses as it can cause:
- dizziness
- liver upset
- nausea
Global Herbal Supplies has Eyebright available in the following forms:
Information given by our website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical professionals. You should not use the information given for diagnosing a health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. The above information is just a guide to general circumstances and in no way should it contradict the advice that you have been given by your naturopath, medical doctor or specialist.
