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Eyebright Organic |
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Eyebright Organic
EYEBRIGHT- ORGANIC
Euphrasia officinalis
History and Folklore
Once common in meadows everywhere, eyebright has become rare. This dainty little member of the figwort family lives in a semi-parasitic relationship with grass, which is why farmers and shepherds have accused it of stealing the milk from their cattle. Indeed, where eyebright grows profusely it sucks the nutrients from its grassy neighbours, although it does not damage them permanently, since it is an annual plant.
Eyebright received its English name for its flowers, which look like bright, sparkling little eyes. Its Latin name euphrasia derives from the Greek Euphrosyne, which means gladness. Whether it is so named because to see it brings gladness, or the gladness comes from its effects upon the eyesight, who knows, but the old herbalists placed great trust in this little herb and thought it a singularly excellent remedy to restore the eyesight. Despite the Greek name, the ancients, Pliny, Galen or Dioscurides did not mention it in their works.
Medicinal Uses:
The ancients warmly recommended eyebright for its restorative powers on the eyesight it prescribed compresses outwardly and tea taken inwardly. They also made a distilled water and a wine which they highly praised. They also claimed it effective for improving failing memory and one source even pronounces it a cure for epilepsy. However, later herbalists have dropped these claims. Today it is chiefly used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which make it useful in cases of watery and exceedingly runny mucous discharges. It is particularly recommended in cases where the catarrhal infection is affecting the eyes and tear ducts as well as the ears. It is sometimes included in formulations for hayfever since that is often characterized by thin runny mucous and inflamed eyes. It can be taken internally as a tea or used externally as a compress for red, weak, gooey or watery eyes.
Magical Uses:
In the old days eyebright was associated with thunderstorms and it was said that it would not be a good idea to pick it on a hot summer's day with thunder hanging in the air, since the lightening would strike where the eyebright was stored. However, it was of course considered highly effective as an amulet to restore and protect the sight. Practitioners of magic would use it to strengthen inner sight and vision.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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