Euphrasia Officinalis
In Paradise Lost, the poet Milton relates that the Archangel Michael used eyebright to cure Adam of the eye infliction suffered by his eating of the forbidden fruit. The name Euphrasia is Greek from Euphrosyne one of the three graces who was so named because of her mirth and happiness. It is believed that the ancient herbalists named the plant this because it brought happiness to those suffering from eye problems.
Back In The Day
In the fourteenth century, Eyebright was supposed to cure ‘all evils of the eye’ and is described as the source of ‘a precious water to clear a man’s sight.’ Matthaeus Sylvaticus, a physician of Mantua, who lived about the year c. 1280 – c. 1342, recommended this plant in disorders of the eyes. Arnoldus Villanovanus, who died in 1311, was the author of a treatise on its virtues, Vini Euphrasiati tantopere celebrati. How long before Euphrasia was in repute for eye diseases it is impossible to say, but in Gordon’s Liticium Medicina, 1305, among the medicines for the eyes, Euphragia is named ‘and is recommended both outwardly in a compound distilled water and inwardly as a syrup.’ Euphragia is not, however, mentioned in the Schola Salernitana, compiled about 1100.
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Eyebright contains Vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, and E, the minerals Sulfur, Potassium, Iron, Silicon, and a trace of Iodine, Copper, and Zinc. It’s known to strengthen all of the eye’s tissues. Eyebright provides elasticity and resiliency to the nerves and optic mechanics, which permit us to see.
Herbal Eyebright, Oil Version – Get Yours Here.
When the volatile oil is applied to the eye, it becomes activated by sunlight to work on the cornea, ciliary muscle, iris, ligaments, lens, retina, and optic nerves. The areas are strengthened and soothed improving the function and also retarding and reversing cataracts. Eyebright has antiseptic properties that fight infections such as conjunctivitis, ophthalmic, and all other eye problems.
As an anti-inflammatory eyebright relieves discomfort from eyestrain, stinging, over-sensitivity to light, weeping conditions, and chronic inflammation.
Medicinal Uses:
Allergies, Blood Cleansers, Cataracts, Catarrh, Colds, Congestion, Conjunctivitis, Coughs, Diabetes, Digestive disorders, Earache, Eye Disorders, Eye Infections, Eye Strain, Eye (strengthens), Glaucoma, Hay Fever, Liver Stimulant, Memory, Middle Ear Problems, Pink Eye, Runny Nose, Sinus Congestion, Sneezing, Sore Throat, Sties (dissolves), Ulcers, Vision Aid.
The Formula for the Eyes from Dr. Christopher – Get Yours Here.
Eyebright, Golden Seal, Bayberry, Red Raspberry, Cayenne (for internal and external use).
References:
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley