Eyebright (Euphrasia)
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Air
Folk Names: Euphrosyne, Augentrostkraut, Euphrasiae herba, Herba, Euphrasiae and Herbe d’Euphraise.
Parts Used: Arial Parts
Eyebright belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It’s scientific name is Euphrasia and there are around 450 species of herbaceous flowering plants in the Orobanchaceae family. The colour or eyebrights flowers vary with the most common being purple, blue-white and violet often with yellow markings.
The History of Eyebright
The name eye bright comes from one of the three Greek Charities, Euphrosyne of charm and gladness.
Eye bright has been used for hundreds of years but was referred to in texts until 1305 when it was assigned the sign Leo by Nicholas Culpeper. In the Elizabeth era it was used in ales and wine and was believed to add cheer to ones spirit.
Culinary Uses
Eyebright has long be used in teas, wines and ales. It is also used in British tobacco blends.
Medicinal Uses
Eyebright as its name suggests has traditionally been used for ailments of the eyes and is often used to treat disorders such as conjunctivitis by reducing inflammation in the eyes and tightening the mucous membranes.
Placing an infusion of eyebright on the external areas of the eye is said to reduce puffiness and dark rings or can be diluted further and used as an eyewash to remove debris and dust .
Magickal Uses Of Eyebright
Eyebright is often dabbed on the eyelids in an infusion to aid in clairvoyance. When used in this manner during the day is said to make what is usually unseen, visible. When used at night just before bed it is said to induce prophetic dreams.
Use in spells and mojo bags of truth when you need to see things clearly and objectively and remove deception from a situation. Eyebright can also be used in spells which allow us to see a silver lining in a dark situation.
Use eyebright to allow a second sight, add a sprinkle of the herb to a scrying bowl or mirror. It can also be used to see faeries.
Add eyebright to a mojo bag with peppermint or rosemary to boost memory while studying or to find something that has been lost.
Burning eyebright as an incense aids in clairvoyance and is an appropriate for celebrations of the ending of an era to make way for another, celebrations of grace or any joyous occasion.
Warnings
Eyebright is considered possibly safe when taken via mouth. Caution however should be taken when used directly in the eye and is not recommended as it can be contaminated leading to an eye infection. When taken as a tincture it can lead to side effects including but not limited to confusion, tearing, redness, vision problems, sneezing, nausea, toothache, constipation, cough, headache and itching.
We have listed known warnings about this plant. These warnings are a guide only and although some magical herbs are safe in small quantities they can be poisonous in large doses or if used incorrectly. If you are not experienced in herbs the rule to stick by is “when in doubt….don’t risk it”.
You can find a great range of herbs for sale for ritual and magickal use at our online shop https://thesacredwillow.com.au/
References: “Wikipedia.org”. Euphrasia. Retrieved 12/04/2016, “Herbs2000.com”. Eyebright. Retrieved 12/04/2016, “webmd.com”. Eyebright. Retrieved 12/04/2016, , Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Publications; 1st edition (October 1985). Print.
Disclaimer: This site is for informative purposes only and its content should not be considered professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy it is no replacement for the attention of a dedicated professional. The Sacred Willow and it’s propieters cannot be held responsible for any damage and/or injury suffered resulting from actions and/or decisions based on information found on the site. Please do not self diagnose any condition regarding your own or another’s health. Always seek professional advice or arrange a consultation.
Some of the information provided based on myth, folklore and tradition and may suggest some supernatural or medicinal powers, however we make no claims as to their medical, magickal, psychic or esoteric properties and are sold as curios only.
