Euphrasia officinalis is a small annual shrub not more than 8 inches (20cm) high, growing in the meadows and grass lands of Europe, that has been in use for eye problems as its name proclaims for at least 2000 years. Its active components are a variety of tannins, glycosides and essential oils.
- Astringent. In this capacity it is frequently used to reduce excessive discharge from the eyes and the sinuses.
- Eye tonic. Eyebright has the reputation of being the best herbal eye tonic, providing support for the associated mucous membranes as well. The herb is used as a tonic for the eyes, and to reduce the feeling of stinging, sensitivity to light, general eye irritation and involuntary weeping, catarrhal conditions, sinus congestion, etc.