Eyebright or Euphrasia officinalis as it's scientifically known as is a plant native to Britain, Europe, northern and western Asia and North America.

Eyebright's active constituents include vitamins A, C, D, and B complex, calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, iron, as well as zinc, copper, and iodine. Tannins, iridoid glycosides, rutin, quercetin, caffeic, ferulic acids, essential fatty acids, glycoside aucuboside, sterols and choline can also be found in eyebright.

As its name suggests, eyebright has been a recommendation among many experts for the treatment of eye conditions including conjunctivitis and blepharitis. The medicinal properties of eyebright have been recognized for thousands of years. In fact, it was coined the plant able to “cure all evils of the eye” during the 14th Century.

Years ago, eyebright was made into a solution and used as an eye wash. The tannins in eyebright makes it a good choice for decreasing inflammation in the eye. And the caffeic acids in eyebright - among other chemicals - have slight antibacterial properties.

In Iceland most conditions that affect the eye are treated with the juice from the pressed plant. In Scotland, a popular treatment for inflamed or weak eyes involves an infusion of eyebright in milk.

Today many experts also recommend eyebright as an alternative treatment for eye strain, eye infections, eye ulcers poor visions and sensitivity to light.

The antiseptic properties in eyebright make it a great choice for irritations of the eyes such as itching and burning.

Eyebright's abilities as an alternative treatment aren't just limited to the eyes either. It is also beneficial in treating allergies, coughs, colds, hay fever, sinusitis, sinus inflammation, earaches, headaches, throat and bronchial congestion and the flu.

The anti-inflammatory properties of the flavonoids in eyebright help reduce mucus secretion, relieve irritation, and improve tissue firmness. For this reason, the plant remains a top choice for symptoms such as watery eyes or runny nose that accompany with mild respiratory conditions.

The stems, leaves, and flowers of the Euphrasia officinalis plant are collected and dried for medicinal use. Often times eyebright is used in combination with other herbs such as goldenseal to treat eye afflictions.

* Important notes: The use of Eyebright should be avoided during pregnancy or lactation.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using eyebright or any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.