Eyebright 4:1

old French term for Eyebright, casse-lunettes, which means "break your glasses." The genus name, Euphrasia, is said to be derived from the Greek, Euphrosyne, who was one

of the goddesses of the Three Fates, and whose name means "gladness." This refers to the gladness one felt when his/her vision was improved by using this herb. Eyebright was used primarily in the Middle Ages as a tonic because of its astringent properties. However, today Eyebright is used more frequently for relieving eye problems such as eye strain,

pink eye and inflamed, irritated and sore eyes. Eyebright contains bitters, essential oils, several B vitamins and Vitamins A, C, D and E. Eyebright is also high in iridoid glycosides, flavonoids and tannins, which are astringent and beneficial for reducing inflammation. The plant's astringent properties also probably account for its usefulness as a topical treatment for inflammatory states and its ability to drain mucus. Eyebright's antibiotic and astringent properties tighten membranes and reduce mucus surrounding the eyes, effectively strengthening and improving circulation. Astringent properties found in Eyebright make it ideal for relieving excess mucus and infectious conditions generally associated with sinusitis allergies, colds and upper respiratory problems. Eyebright has recently been used for cleansing and purifying the blood, therefore stimulating healthy liver functions.