Quick summary

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is an herb traditionally associated with eye conditions. Current human clinical evidence is limited, with some trials investigating Euphrasia eye drops for ocular symptoms in neonates but without significant effects on primary outcomes. There is emerging interest in its potential symptom relief effects, but robust clinical efficacy data are lacking.

What is it?

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is a flowering herb native to Europe and parts of Asia, historically used in traditional medicine for eye-related ailments. It belongs to the family Orobanchaceae and is characterized by small, delicate flowers and a semi-parasitic growth habit on grasses and other plants.

Traditional uses

Historically, eyebright has been used in folk remedies to support eye health and to alleviate symptoms such as redness, irritation, and tearing. It has been applied topically in eye washes or taken as infusions to relieve various ocular complaints.

Active compounds

Eyebright contains several bioactive constituents, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. These compounds are believed to contribute to its purported anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, although detailed pharmacological profiles remain under investigation.

Potential benefits with evidence levels

  • Relief of ocular symptoms (reddening and tearing) in preterm neonates with ocular discharge
    Evidence level: Human clinical trial (Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled)
    Details: One randomized controlled trial in preterm neonates found that Euphrasia eye drops did not significantly improve the primary outcome of resolution of ocular discharge or reduce antibiotic use. However, it suggested a possible benefit in reducing reddening and tearing symptoms, indicating potential comfort improvement. These results were not statistically significant and require further study.
  • Potential integrative management support in ophthalmologic diseases (e.g., glaucoma)
    Evidence level: Narrative/minireview (General literature review, no direct clinical trial evidence for Euphrasia)
    Details: Reviews of nutritional and botanical compounds indicate potential supportive roles in glaucoma and other eye diseases. Specific clinical evidence supporting Euphrasia officinalis for these indications is not established.

Side effects

There are no significant adverse effects reported associated with Euphrasia officinalis in available clinical studies, including in preterm neonates. Toxicity concerns related to eye treatments are more commonly linked to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride found in some artificial tears, rather than the herb itself.

Drug interactions

No evidence or clinical data regarding drug interactions with Euphrasia officinalis were found in the available research.

Who should avoid it?

No specific contraindications for use of Euphrasia officinalis have been identified in current research. However, due to insufficient safety data, particularly during pregnancy and breastfeeding, caution is advised. Individuals with known sensitivities to plant-derived eye products or preservatives should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Evidence limitations

The clinical data supporting the efficacy and safety of Euphrasia officinalis are very limited. Most evidence comes from a single small randomized controlled trial in preterm neonates with ocular discharge that showed no significant primary benefit. Other literature consists mainly of reviews or general discussions lacking direct clinical trials. The absence of comprehensive data on drug interactions, contraindications, and safety in special populations limits definitive clinical guidance.

References

  • Meier-Girard D, Gerstenberg G, Stoffel L, Kohler T, Klein SD, Eschenmoser M, Mitter VR, Nelle M, Wolf U. Euphrasia Eye Drops in Preterm Neonates With Ocular Discharge: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. Front Pediatr. 2020;8:449. doi: 10.3389/fped.2020.00449. PMID: 32850558. PMCID: PMC7431947.
  • Mikha KN, Rasmussen CEØ, Ahrensberg SNG, Freiberg J, Wozniak RA, Alnoor UMK, Fineide F, Utheim TP, Heegaard S, Kolko M. Can the choice of artificial tears harm patients? A narrative review with an overview of the Nordic market. Acta Ophthalmol. 2025;doi: 10.1111/aos.17455. PMID: 39921541. PMCID: PMC12235687.
  • Musa M, Zeppieri M, Atuanya GN, Enaholo ES, Topah EK, Ojo OM, Salati C. Nutritional Factors: Benefits in Glaucoma and Ophthalmologic Pathologies. Life (Basel). 2023;13(5):1120. doi: 10.3390/life13051120. PMID: 37240765. PMCID: PMC10222847.
  • Halder S, Anand U, Nandy S, Oleksak P, Qusti S, Alshammari EM, El-Saber Batiha G, Koshy EP, Dey A. Herbal drugs and natural bioactive products as potential therapeutics: A review on pro-cognitives and brain boosters perspectives. Saudi Pharm J. 2021;29(8):101023. doi: 10.1016/j.jsps.2021.07.003. PMID: 34408548. PMCID: PMC8363108.

Last reviewed

June 2024

Informational disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking other medications. Evidence regarding Euphrasia officinalis is limited and further research is needed to confirm benefits and safety.