Evidence supporting the use of: Eyebright
For the health condition: Eyesight (poor)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) has been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support eye health and relieve minor eye conditions such as redness, irritation, and conjunctivitis. The plant’s use dates back to the Middle Ages, where it was often incorporated into remedies for various eye complaints, guided largely by the "doctrine of signatures"—the historical belief that plants resembling certain body parts could treat ailments of those parts. However, scientific validation for these uses is very limited. There are few modern clinical studies assessing Eyebright's efficacy for poor eyesight or other eye conditions. Most available research consists of in vitro or animal studies that suggest Eyebright possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, but these findings do not directly translate to improvements in human vision. Current regulatory and health organizations, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA), note the lack of robust clinical evidence supporting Eyebright’s use for eye health. As a result, while Eyebright continues to be included in some traditional herbal formulations for eyes, its reputation is based primarily on historical use rather than scientific validation.
Other ingredients used for Eyesight (poor)
alpha-caroteneanthocyanins
berry flavor
beta-carotene
bilberry
blueberry
carrot
cryptoxanthin
turmeric
lutein
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
zeaxanthin
zinc
anthocyanidins
anthocyanosides
beta-zeacarotene
berry
Bioflavonoids
Carotene (unspecified)
Flavonoids
Other health conditions supported by Eyebright
Allergies (respiratory)Bloodshot Eyes
Conjunctivitis
Eye Infections
Eye Problems
Eyes (red or itching)
Eyesight (poor)
Inflammation
Sinus Infection
Stye
Wounds and Sores