Evidence supporting the use of: Eyebright
For the health condition: Stye

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for various eye conditions, including styes. Historically, herbalists in Europe have recommended eyebright as a topical wash or compress for soothing irritated eyes, conjunctivitis, and minor eye infections. The rationale is based on the doctrine of signatures and anecdotal reports, rather than robust scientific studies. Some herbal texts from the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods mention eyebright specifically for “eye inflammations” and swelling, which could include conditions resembling styes (hordeolum).

However, modern scientific evidence supporting eyebright’s effectiveness for treating styes is minimal. There are few clinical trials investigating its direct impact on styes, and available studies focus more on general eye irritation or conjunctivitis, often with inconclusive or low-quality results. Chemical analyses of eyebright suggest it contains flavonoids and tannins, which may have mild anti-inflammatory or astringent properties, but there is no clear evidence these constituents impact the causative bacteria or inflammation specifically associated with styes. In summary, while the use of eyebright for styes is justified by tradition, it is not supported by strong scientific data.

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