Eyebright can help overall eye health
Eyebright As A Natural Health Supplement
Updated Apr. 25th, 2024 | Read Time: 1 Minute | What You Will Learn:
- Medicinal Properties of This Herb
- Key Health Benefits of Eyebright
- Popular Eyebright Supplement Varieties
- Important Information & Potential Side Effects
Eyebright is a popular herb in Europe for use during inflammatory eye conditions. It is a genus of about 450 species of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Orobanchaceae, with a cosmopolitan distribution. They are hemiparasitic on grasses and other plants. The common name refers to the plant's use in treating eye infections.
Medicinal Properties of This Herb
Eyebright acts as an astringent, meaning that it decreases eye secretions such as mucus and tears. It is also an anti-inflammatory, which decreases swelling and redness in and around the eye.
Key Health Benefits of Eyebright
It is recommended by natural health practitioners for:
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Blepharitis
- Eye Fatigue
- Allergic Eye Symptoms
It is also beneficial to ease the nasal cavity and sinuses (rhinosinusitis), allergies, hay fever, and many other conditions.
Popular Eyebright Supplement Varieties
Eyebright supplements contain the whole plant in encapsulated or tincture form. You can also purchase it as a loose herb or in tea bags. These forms are convenient for using this herb as an eyewash or applying it as a compress. Since each supplement is made with a different potency, follow the dosing directions on the manufacturer's label.
Important Information & Potential Side Effects
Although rare, these supplements might cause confusion, headache, nausea, constipation, cough, trouble breathing, and trouble sleeping (insomnia). If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and seek medical attention if necessary. It is not suggested to use these supplements when you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
