Eyebright: medicinal properties and contraindications, composition, instructions for use, doctors' reviews, photos

The use of the eyebright herb for the eyes is practiced in order to eliminate a number of ophthalmic diseases. The first information about the use of the plant for medicinal purposes dates back to the 19th century. However, the rich composition of eyebright makes it a truly versatile traditional medicine.

What does eyebright look like and where does it grow

Eyebright is a herb belonging to the Norichnikov family. It is often found on roadsides, peat bogs, forest edges and among bushes. The height of the plant stem can reach 50 cm. The leafy part is ovoid and has pointed edges. Inflorescences form on the top of the stem. Their petals have a pale purple hue. A photo of eyebright herb will help distinguish it from other plants.

The flower diameter is 4-6 cm

In Russia, medicinal herb is found everywhere, except for the Far North. This is due to its unpretentiousness to weather conditions. The grass loves moist soil with a lime content. It does not need additional mineral fertilizers. Outside the Russian Federation, eyebright can be found in almost any European country.

Eyebright chemical composition

The high biological activity of the herb is explained by the content of a large amount of nutrients. Due to this, it is often used as the main component of dietary supplements. The eyebright plant contains the following substances:

• glycosides;
• essential oils;
• silicon;
• B vitamins;
• lignans;
• tannins;
• vitamin C;
• zinc;
• tannins;
• silicon;
• chromium;
• coumarins;
• gallotannins.

The content of ascorbic acid in the composition of the plant strengthens the immune system, which activates the body's defenses. Lignans act on the body like phytoestrogens. Tannins have an antioxidant effect, freeing the body from free radicals. Glycosides can regulate the work of the heart muscle, but in excessive quantities they can lead to the accumulation of toxins.

The minerals present in the herb have a positive effect on the function of the musculoskeletal system. B vitamins normalize the functioning of the nervous system. They improve the quality of sleep and reduce increased anxiety.

What heals eyebright

For medicinal purposes, eyebright is mainly used to treat ophthalmic diseases. But she copes well with other problems as well. Due to the content of organic substances, it suppresses inflammatory reactions and tumor processes. The oils in the plant act on the body like antibiotics. Glycosides, in turn, help to strengthen blood vessels and normalize the work of the heart. Eyebright is indicated for the following diseases:

• jaundice;
• angina;
• indigestion;
• age-related decrease in vision;
• high intraocular pressure;
• ophthalmic diseases of an inflammatory nature;
• increased acidity of the stomach;
• rheumatism.

Eyebright can be used for general health improvement. It has a stimulating effect on the immune system and eliminates inflammation. Preventive use of the decoction protects against the development of viral and colds.

The use of eyebright herb in traditional medicine

The beneficial properties of eyebright are conducive to its use in alternative medicine. Medicinal infusions, decoctions and alcoholic tinctures are prepared from it. Herbal tea from eyebright has a general tonic effect. For the preparation of medicinal products, raw materials are used in dried form. You can prepare it yourself or buy it at the pharmacy.

Most often, eyebright is used to increase the effectiveness of the main therapy. In some cases, it is used for preventive purposes. It has a powerful immunomodulatory effect, which reduces the risk of developing colds and infectious diseases.

Infusions

Components:

• 1 tbsp. l. pharmacy chamomile;
• 1 tbsp. l. dried eyebright;
• 300 ml of water.

Cooking process:

1. The herbs are mixed and placed in a deep container.
2. The resulting mixture is poured with hot water.
3. The drink is kept under the lid for 2 hours.
4. The finished infusion is filtered.

With physical exhaustion, eyebright increases appetite

The resulting medicine is used for the manufacture of compresses and internal intake. It perfectly removes discomfort and inflammation from the mucous membranes of the eyes. To prevent the infusion from spoiling, it must be used within 24 hours after preparation.

Decoctions

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. l. eyebright;
• 500 ml of water.

Recipe:

1. Eyebrush is placed in a saucepan and covered with hot water.
2. The container is put on a slow fire.
3. The broth is cooked for 10 minutes.
4. After removing from the heat, it is allowed to cool.
5. The finished broth is filtered, and then used for its intended purpose.

Before taking the broth, cool

For ophthalmic diseases, a decoction of the herb is instilled into each eye, 1 drop. The procedure is carried out 3 times a day. Compresses using a decoction are made twice a day. It is necessary to soak cotton pads in it and apply them to the eyes. The compress can be removed after 10 minutes. Inside, the broth is taken in 100 ml 30 minutes before meals.

Tinctures

Components:

• 200 g of aloe pulp;
• 500 ml of natural honey;
• 50 g of a mixture of eyebright and cornflower;
• 500 ml of dry wine.

Recipe:

1. The wine is heated in a saucepan, not boiling.
2. Add honey to the container and stir until it is completely dissolved.
3. The herbal mixture is poured into a tinted glass bottle.
4. Wine and honey are poured into it.
5. The container is hermetically sealed with a lid and then shaken vigorously. This is necessary for mixing the components together.
6. The tincture is kept in a dark place for 3 days.
7. After a specified time, the container is opened, and its contents are again poured into a saucepan and brought to a boil. After that, the tincture is cooked over low heat for 45 minutes.
8. Cool the finished drink and take 1 tbsp. l. on empty stomach.

The duration of the treatment course will differ in each individual case. It is advisable to use the tincture until the symptoms of the disease disappear completely. After a short break, the treatment course can be resumed.

Tea

For myopia, eyebright tea is often prescribed. It improves visual acuity and protects against infectious diseases. It is recommended to be taken by people whose activities are associated with increased loads on the organs of vision. It is permissible to drink the drink no more than 4 times a day.

Components:

• ½ tbsp. l. dry grass;
• 250 ml boiling water.

Cooking process:

1. Eyebright is poured into a teapot and poured with hot water.
2. The brewing time is 5 minutes.
3. Tea is taken 15 minutes before meals.

Small amounts of tea can be consumed on an ongoing basis

How to brew eyebright herb

For eye treatment, eyebright should be brewed for no more than half an hour. The approximate ratio of dry mix to water is 1:10. Before using for medicinal purposes, the resulting product must be filtered. Especially if the solution is planned to be used for instillation into the eyes. A decoction for internal use can be made tastier by adding honey.

How much to drink eyebright for vision

According to the instructions for use, eyebright must be used for a long time. The optimal treatment period is 30-60 days. But sometimes it can be a longer period. The maximum daily dosage is 400 ml.

Contraindications

Due to its natural origin, eyebright rarely provokes adverse reactions. Despite this, its reception implies taking into account certain nuances. It is important to know not only the healing properties of eyebright, but also contraindications. These include the following:

• decreased acidity of the stomach;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• individual intolerance;
• age under 3 years old;
• anacid gastritis;
• hypotension.

At the age of 3 to 5 years, a remedy can be used only after individual consultation with a doctor. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, taking the herb is dangerous for the baby. Toxic substances can enter his body that do not affect adults.

In case of an overdose and violation of the eyebright reception regimen, it can provoke side effects. The most common of these are indigestion and headache. An allergic reaction to grass is very rare. But if it appears, it is necessary to take an antihistamine.

Eyebright application in cosmetology

In cosmetology, eyebright is used in combination with other medicines. This allows you to enhance the effectiveness of the procedures. The main advantage of eyebright is the ability to eliminate rashes and inflammation of the skin. In addition, compresses effectively deal with bags under the eyes and even out the complexion. The wound healing properties of the plant make it effective in treating the following diseases:

• burns;
• psoriasis;
• wounds and scratches;
• dermatitis.

To improve hair growth, a decoction of the herb is used as a rinse after washing. This procedure provides shine and strength to the hair. With regular use, they become softer and smoother. Eyebright's ability to regulate sebum production helps to get rid of dandruff.

Collection and preparation of grass

Eyebright is collected during the flowering period. This happens in July-August. It is during this period that the concentration of nutrients in the plant reaches its maximum. For medicinal purposes, inflorescences and the leafy part of the plant are used. After collection, the grass is thoroughly washed to remove dust and dirt.

The drying process is carried out at a temperature of 30-40 ° C. The raw materials are laid out on a flat surface in a thin layer. The room should be well ventilated. However, it is important to protect eyebright from direct sunlight. Harvesting can be done using a special dryer. In this case, the procedure lasts much faster.

It is customary to store the harvested grass in paper bags or tightly closed glass jars. It is important to avoid moisture and light. Once harvested, dried grass can be used throughout the year. If the storage rules are violated, the shelf life may be reduced.

Conclusion

The use of eyebright herb for the eyes is most relevant for people of age and those whose work is connected with a computer. The remedy effectively relieves discomfort and improves visual acuity.With proper use of the herb, the likelihood of side effects tends to zero.

Reviews of doctors about eyebright for the eyes