Common eyebright

Eyebright is a plant whose parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine. Eyebright is also known as Euphrasia. Eyebright is taken orally to treat swollen and inflamed nasal passages, allergies, hay fever, colds, bronchial problems and inflamed sinuses. It is also used for cancer, coughs, conjunctivitis, earache, epilepsy, headaches, hoarseness, inflammation, jaundice, runny nose, skin conditions and sore throats. Despite the serious risk of infection, some people apply eyebright directly to the eye in the form of lotions, poultices or eye baths to treat conditions such as conjunctivitis, inflammation of the eyelids, eye fatigue, inflammation of the blood vessels, sticky eyes and inflamed eyes.

Eyebright is also applied to the eyes to prevent inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes. Eyebright is used as a colorant in food. Historically, eyebright was used in British herbal tobacco, which was smoked to treat persistent lung problems and colds.

How does eyebright work?

The chemicals in eyebright may act as a drying agent and kill bacteria.

How effective is eyebright?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of eyebright in the treatment of inflamed nasal passages, inflamed sinuses, colds, allergies, coughs, earaches, and headaches. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of eyebright for these conditions.

Safety and side effects

Eyebright may be safe and harmless for most people when taken orally. However, application directly to the eye may not be safe and harmless and is not recommended. The products used could be contaminated and cause eye infections. Side effects of eyebright tincture include confusion, headache, itching, redness, vision problems, sneezing, nausea, toothache, constipation, cough, breathing problems, sleep problems, sweating and others.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Not enough is known about the use of eyebright during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid eyebright.

Interactions

There is currently no information on interactions between eyebright and medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of eyebright depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At the present time, there is insufficient scientific data to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for eyebright. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.