The Eyebright Herb(Western Herb)
LATIN NAME: Euphrasis officinallis The Eyebright herb is also known as Euphrasia. GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION: Eyebright is a creeping annual plant related to the snapdragon. It is semi-parasitic and only grows about a foot high. It has small, deeply toothed leaves and small scalloped edged white flowers with yellow spots and a black center with purple lines converge in the center, somewhat resembling a bloodshot eye. The Eyebright plant is the most widely recommended herb for eye strain, eye inflammation, stinging and weeping eyes, and over sensitivity to light. The Eyebright herb teas are used to diminish nasal congestion and coughs that accompany hay fever, colds and sinusitis. In the 1700’s dried eyebright leaves were mixed with tobacco, which was smoked to cure bronchial infections. TARGET AILMENTS: Take internally for: * sinus infection * hay fever * allergic rhinitis * coughs * upset stomach Apply externally for: * conjunctivitis * bloodshot eyes * sties * poor vision * eye strain * sensitivity to light * eye ulcers * eczema PREPARATION: The Eyebright plant is available in tincture, capsule, homeopathic tablet, and bulk herb in health food stores and herb farms. Parts used: Stems, leaves, flowers Collection: The stems, leaves, and flowers are cut off just above the root while it is still in bloom in the late summer and early autumn. Constituents: Glycosides, tannins, falvonoids Actions: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, tonic, decongestant Combinations: can be combined with Golden Seal and distilled Witch Hazel to make an eye lotion. It also combines well with Golden Rod, Elder Flower, or Golden Seal for catarrhal conditions. SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS: * This herb could cause a skin rash or nausea. If this occurs, reduce your dosage or stop taking completely. * Herbalist discourage use of homemade eyebright preparations because they are probably not sterile and everything that is applied to the eyes need to be sterile.
Back to Herb Index From Eyebright Herb
|
