Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)

Botanical Classification

  • Scientific Name: Euphrasia officinalis (various species exist, often referred to collectively as Euphrasia spp.)
  • Family: Orobanchaceae
  • Common Names: Eyebright, Augentrost (German), Luminet (French)
Parts Used
  • Aerial Parts (Leaves, Stems, Flowers): Used in herbal preparations such as infusions, tinctures, washes, and compresses.
  • Seeds & Roots: Rarely used in traditional medicine.
Constituents
  • Iridoid Glycosides (e.g., Aucubin): Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
  • Flavonoids (e.g., Quercetin, Apigenin): Antioxidant and anti-allergic effects.
  • Tannins: Astringent properties beneficial for mucous membrane health.
  • Phenolic Acids: Contribute to anti-inflammatory and antiseptic actions.
  • Alkaloids: Present in small amounts, may contribute to medicinal effects.

Medicinal Uses

Equine Use

  • Eye & Vision Support:

    • Helps reduce inflammation, irritation, and infections in horses with runny or swollen eyes.
    • Can be applied as an eyewash or compress for eye conditions.

  • Respiratory Support:

    • Useful for horses suffering from seasonal allergies, sinusitis, or coughs.
    • Can be added to feed in dry or tincture form to help clear mucus.

  • Gastrointestinal Support:

    • The tannins and astringent properties help with mild diarrhea or digestive inflammation.

Usage:

  • Infusion: used as an eyewash (once cooled).
  • Tincture:daily in feed or water.
  • Poultice/Compress: Applied to swollen eyes or skin irritations.

⚠ Precautions:

  • Avoid direct application into the eye—use as a wash around the eye instead.
  • Use cautiously in pregnant or lactating mares.
Canine Use

  • Eye Infections & Irritation:

    • Used as an eyewash for conjunctivitis, allergies, and eye strain.
    • Reduces tear staining in light-colored dogs.

  • Allergy & Respiratory Relief:

    • Can help with runny noses, sneezing, and hay fever in sensitive dogs.

  • Digestive Health:

    • Helps with mild diarrhea and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Usage:

  • Eyewash: Brew a weak tea, apply with a clean cloth.
  • Internal Use: Tincture in water or food.
  • Poultice: Used externally for skin inflammation.

⚠ Precautions:

  • Avoid direct application to the eye—always use a diluted wash.
  • Monitor for allergies if using for the first time.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Uses

  • Symbol of Clarity & Vision:

    • Eyebright was historically used to "clear the sight" both physically and metaphorically.
    • In folklore, it was believed to enhance wisdom and foresight.

  • Magical & Protective Uses:

    • In the Isle of Man and the UK, Eyebright was thought to protect against deception and illusions.
    • Carried as a charm to "see through lies" and promote truth and wisdom.

  • Traditional Healing:

    • Used by Manx herbalists for eye infections, colds, and coughs.
    • Common in herbal teas and poultices for vision support and sinus relief.

Conclusion

Eyebright is a valuable herb for eye health, allergies, and respiratory support in humans, horses, and dogs.

In UK and Isle of Man folklore, it was associated with clear vision, wisdom, and protection.

Caution should be taken when applying to the eyes, ensuring it is properly diluted and used externally.

Digestion

Inflamation

Respiratory

Wellbeing

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