St Francis Eyebright(Euphrasia officinalis)
* used for inflammations of the upper respiratory tract, such as in the common cold and sinusitis; specifically for those attended by copious watery and acrid eye and nasal secretions
* used for inflammation of the eyes, including conjunctivitis and hay fever allergies Eyebright is an effective herbal remedy that has long been employed in Western medicine. In the fourteenth century, it was regarded as a cure for "all evils of the eye". Eyebright was considered slightly tonic and astringent and it was employed for all mucous diseases with increased discharges, specifically for the nasal membranes and acute catarrhal diseases of the eyes, nose and ears. Eyebright is an excellent remedy for mucous membrane problems. Its combination of anti-inflammatory and astringent properties makes it relevant for many conditions. Used internally, eyebright is a powerful anticatarrhal, and thus may be used to treat nasal catarrh, sinusitis, and other congestive states. However, the herb is best known for its use in eye conditions, including acute or chronic inflammations, stinging and weeping eyes, and oversensitivity to light. William A. Mitchell, Jr., ND notes that eyebright is a respiratory emollient that he uses to treat catarrhal diseases of the upper respiratory tract. He also recommends it as a treatment for the itchy eyes of hay fever. American herbal practitioner Alan Tillotson remarks that, "Use of eyebright tincture... is very effective for short-term symptomatic relief of allergy-related persistent burning, itching eyes with copious discharge of watery mucus." Administration:
25-40 drops (0.8-1.3ml), three times daily, in a mouthful of water, on an empty stomach Contraindications and Cautions:
Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. A NOTE ON TINCTURES
Tinctures are more readily absorbed by the body and have a high degree of bio-availability. As well, they have a long shelf life. Sometimes people ask us why tinctures are alcohol-based. There are very good reasons. Alcohol is critically important in the extraction of an herb`s medicinal ingredients. It also helps to stabilize and preserve them. Alcohol is the ideal carrier substance, conveying the therapeutic goodness of the herb to the body. In itself, too, science has proven that alcohol enhances the immune system and its defences. As for the amount of alcohol taken in an average dose of tincture, you`ll be surprised to learn that it`s about the same as what you`d find in an overly ripe banana! Tinctures remain the most practical way to take advantage of the amazing, health-giving power of herbs. Ingredients:
Certified Organic Eyebright
(Euphrasia officinalis)
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