Eyebright Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Eyebright is an herb used to support eye health, reduce inflammation, and relieve eye strain.
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is a traditional herb used to support eye health and relieve minor eye irritation. It has been used in European herbalism for centuries.
The plant contains compounds like aucubin and flavonoids that may have anti-inflammatory and astringent effects. It is commonly used in eye drops, teas, and supplements targeting seasonal eye discomfort.
Eyebright is taken for eye strain, redness, and allergies. While widely used in folk medicine, scientific evidence remains limited, and its internal use should be approached with care.
Other names & forms of Eyebright supplement : euphrasia officinalis, eyebright herb, eyebright extract
Benefits
Eyebright delivers key health benefits, especially for visual comfort, upper respiratory support, and mucosal membrane health:
- Supports Eye Health by soothing eye irritation and reducing redness.
- May help alleviate sinus-related discomfort and promote Lung Health by reducing mucous membrane inflammation.
- Provides gentle astringent effects that contribute to Skin Health by reducing puffiness around the eyes.
- Offers overall General Health support through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Dosage
The intake of Eyebright supplement varies and should be adjusted based on individual factors:
- Eye and sinus support: 300–600 mg/day of Eyebright extract (Euphrasia officinalis, standardized to iridoid glycosides).
- Traditional tea: 2–3 grams/day steeped and sipped 1–2 times/day.
- Eye washes: Must be sterile, commercially prepared (do not use homemade solutions).
- Recommendation: Avoid internal use in pregnancy; consult ophthalmologist before eye application.
Side Effects
Eyebright is often used to soothe eye irritation, but as you start, you may notice mild effects. Keep an eye out for:
- Occasional skin or eye irritation—itching or redness—when applied topically
- Possible temporary headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
- Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or stomach cramps—if taken internally on an empty stomach
- Rare allergic reactions—rash or swelling—in those sensitive to plantain or related herbs
- Temporary blurred vision if used in high concentration as a wash
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Diuretic and antihypertensive drugs: Eyebright’s astringent compounds may enhance effects of diuretics (e.g., furosemide) or supplements like Dandelion Root, impacting fluid balance—monitor blood pressure and hydration.
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents: Its mild vasoconstrictive action could add to warfarin or Garlic, increasing bleeding risk—check coagulation parameters.
- Topical eye medications: Using Eyebright alongside prescription eye drops (e.g., glaucoma treatments) may alter absorption; space application by at least 20 minutes.
- Antiinflammatory herbs: Combined with NSAIDs or supplements such as Turmeric & Curcumin, it could potentiate local anti-inflammatory effects—use with caution.
Precautions
Before you try Eyebright, confirm that you're not in any of these cautionary categories. If you are, check with your healthcare provider:
- Individuals with glaucoma or serious eye conditions: May alter intraocular pressure; avoid without specialist guidance
- People with contact lenses: Topical use may trap residue under lenses; remove lenses before application
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data for internal use; use only under medical supervision
- Those with hay fever or pollen allergies: Risk of allergic reaction; use cautiously or avoid
- Patients scheduled for eye surgery: Discontinue topical use at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Eyebright benefits:
A 2013 crossover RCT in 30 men with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis found 500 mg/day eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) extract for 4 weeks did not significantly change symptom scores versus placebo (ns).
No RCTs have evaluated eyebright for upper respiratory or dermatologic conditions, despite traditional uses.
In vitro, eyebright extracts show anti-inflammatory activity, but no human trials have confirmed efficacy.
Clinical evidence is lacking to support any use of eyebright in ocular or systemic inflammatory disorders.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Eyebright supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.