Eyebright
Common names
Latin name
Family
Parts used
Botanical description, cultivation and harvesting
A small downy annual saprophytic plant. It has a square stem up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are opposite and ovate. The two lipped flowers are red, purple or white and grow in axillary spikes. It is native to Europe, Western Asia and naturalized in the USA. Grows in meadows, pasture and grassy areas, including by seashores. It is difficult to cultivate since it is saprophytic to grasses but seed is available and some have succeeded in growing it from seed. It is harvested during the flowering period, usually May-October.
History, folklore, taste and energetics
Astringent. The flowers are thought to resemble a healthy eye, according to the Doctrine of Signatures. Reputed by some to encourage clear sightedness on all levels and to give the ability to see fairies. The botanical name is derived from the Greek word euphrosyne, meaning gladness.
Constituents
Glycosides (aucubin), Saponins,Flavonoids, Lignans, Phenolic acids Tannins, Resin, Volatile oils
Actions
- Anti-catarrhal
- Astringent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-bacterial
- Antispasmodic
Traditional and current uses
- Eye lotion
- Nasal catarrh, rhinitis, sinusitis, ear problems, conjunctivitis, hay fever, colds, measles
- Mouth wash for throat and mouth inflammation
- Tones the mucus membranes
- A bitter liver tonic
- Dries up fluid mucus, not suitable for dry congestion
