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.
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.

Digestion

Inflamation

Respiratory

Wellbeing

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)