Eyebright

(Euphrasia officinalis) Part used: All that is above ground. Properties: Alternative, astringent, tonic. What it affects: Eyes, liver and blood.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 6 oz. frequently. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops frequently. Fluid extract: Take 1 tsp. frequently. Powder: Take 10 #0 capsules (60 grains) frequently.

Purposes: Internally, eyebright is the best single herb for the eyes. Drink the tea liberally and on a daily basis, to treat all eye problems. It aids in stimulating the liver to clear the blood and relieve those conditions that affects the clarity of vision. It relieves discomfort from eyestrain or minor eye irritation. It is good for itchy and or watery eyes. It has a cooling and detoxifying property that makes it especially useful in combating inflammation. It is also useful with inflammations of the nose and throat.

• Eyebright is also used for allergies, diabetes, cataracts, hay fever, impure blood, indigestion, nose and throat congestion, and upper respiration problems.

Externally, eyebright is used as an eyewash, especially combined with goldenseal, rue, or fennel for conjunctivitis, eye weakness, ophthalmia, burning and sore eyes, and other eye diseases. The infusion is made using 1 oz. herb to a pint of boiled water, steeped 20 minutes. A beverage tea can be made, using 1/2 oz. herb steeped in a pint of water.