Eyebright (Euphrasia spp.)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Common Names: Eyebright
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems)

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Description

Euphrasia spp. is a small, semi-parasitic annual herb native to Europe and parts of North America. It thrives in grasslands and meadows, drawing nutrients from nearby plants. Eyebright has long been valued for its traditional uses in eye health, respiratory support, and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine for centuries to support eye health and treat eye infections.
• Traditionally employed for colds, allergies, and sinus congestion.
• Applied topically as an eyewash for conjunctivitis and irritation.
• Taken internally for respiratory and mucosal membrane support.

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Constituents

• Iridoid glycosides
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Phenolic acids
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Antihistamine
• Antimicrobial
• Expectorant
• Decongestant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Eye Health and Infections:
Traditionally used for conjunctivitis, eye strain, and inflammation.

2. Respiratory and Sinus Support:
Helps alleviate symptoms of colds, sinus infections, and hay fever.

3. Allergy Relief:
Acts as a natural antihistamine, reducing seasonal allergy symptoms.

4. Mucosal Membrane Support:
Soothes inflammation in the throat and sinuses.

5. Skin Healing:
Used topically for minor wounds, eczema, and skin irritation.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Eyewash:

• Prepare a mild infusion, strain thoroughly, and use as an eye rinse (consult a practitioner before use).

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution.
• Eye Application: Must be properly filtered to avoid irritation.
• Allergies: Use cautiously if sensitive to plants in the Scrophulariaceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; beneficial for eye and sinus health.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used for respiratory relief and eye support.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Pitta, but may increase Vata in excess.

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Combinations

• For Eye Health: Combine with calendula and chamomile.
• For Sinus Relief: Combine with elderflower and nettle.
• For Allergy Support: Combine with goldenrod and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in summer.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Euphrasia spp.’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, reinforcing its traditional use in eye and respiratory health.

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Eyebright remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for eye health, respiratory support, and allergy relief.