12/19/2025
I have another stye in my eyelid.π«€
So what's a go to Herbal Remedy for me?
Eye Brite Tea!
Scientifically, eyebright (Euphrasia) tea works, or is believed to work, due to its compounds like flavonoids, tannins, and aucubin, which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, helping reduce redness, swelling, and irritation from conditions like allergies or digital eye strain by potentially inhibiting histamine and fighting bacteria, though more clinical trials are needed, with current evidence primarily from test-tube (in vitro) studies.
Key Compounds & Actions:
Flavonoids: Inhibit histamine release, reducing allergy symptoms like watery eyes.
Tannins: Act as astringents, helping to dry up excess secretions and reduce inflammation.
Aucubin: An iridoid glycoside with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, protecting cells and potentially fighting bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus.
Caffeic Acid: Has antiseptic properties.
How It's Thought to Work (Traditional & Preliminary Science):
Reduces Inflammation: Compounds combat inflammation from allergies, infections, or screen time, soothing irritated eyes.
Fights Bacteria: May inhibit certain eye-infecting bacteria, though clinical proof for eye infections is lacking.
Antioxidant Protection: Protects cells from damage by free radicals, which can contribute to skin aging and eye issues.
Important Considerations:
Limited Clinical Proof: While in vitro (test-tube) and traditional uses show promise, strong clinical studies (human trials) confirming its effectiveness for serious eye diseases are limited.
German Commission E: Has not supported its use for eye conditions due to potential impurities in non-pharmaceutical products.
Safe Application: Always cool brewed eyebright tea and use it as a compress after consulting a physician knowledgeable in herbal medicine, as applying undiluted or impure preparations can be risky.
Eyebright is a wonderful herb for allergies, excess mucous and eye problems. It is particularly helpful for allergy season.