Medicinal herb eyebright, use at home for prevention and medicinal purposes. Eyebright herb: medicinal properties and contraindications Eyebright herb for the eyes medicinal properties
Nature has awarded plants not only with beauty, but also with many useful properties. Eyebright is a unique plant, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have been known to mankind for a long time. Its medical name is Euphrasiae herba. The grass is popularly called star eyebright, eye socket, eye grass, fireweed, crow's and magpie's tears, and less commonly - toad grass. Having learned about its healing properties, many are interested in what the grass looks like and where it grows.
Nature has awarded plants not only with beauty, but also with many useful properties.
Description of eyebright
Eyebright grass is an annual plant belonging to the Norichaceae family.
Eyebright blooms in the second half of summer and continues to bloom until mid-autumn. Snow-white or pale purple flowers, similar to small stars, are located one at a time in the axils of the bracts, forming complex spike-shaped inflorescences. A distinctive feature of eyebright is the presence of longitudinal stripes on all flower petals and the bright yellow color of the central part of its lower petals. The annual plant reproduces by seeds, which are collected in long-ciliated capsules along the edge. If you dig up the soil where grass grew in the fall, then in the spring self-sowing will appear in this place. Eyebright grows in many countries of central and southern Europe. On the territory of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, eyebright (crested) and common eyebright are common. You can meet it everywhere, but it prefers to grow in meadows, clearings, forests, and roadsides.
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Gallery: eyebright grass (25 photos)
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Medicinal properties of eyebright
The medicinal raw materials of the plant are flowers and leaves. They are harvested during flowering. The plant must be dried in the shade or in a well-ventilated area. You can also use electric dryers, the use of which increases process control. Dried raw materials must be stored in a dry place, since under the influence of moisture they can lose their healing properties.
Eyebright contains a large number of useful chemical elements. It contains disinfectant resins, ascorbic acid, essential and fatty oils. It contains such valuable natural compounds as coumarins and bitters. It contains plant glycosides - saponins and anthocyanins. Also, complex organic compounds (tannins) were identified in the flowers and leaves of the unique plant.
The annual plant is a real storehouse of microelements (silicon, magnesium, zinc, iron, manganese, etc.). Firefly is also rich in vitamins A, C and B.
Traditional medicine appreciates the drug because it has an anti-inflammatory effect, effectively relieves pain and is an excellent antispasmodic. The collection has an excellent astringent and enveloping effect, has a wide spectrum of antibacterial action, and is used as a sedative. Infusions from this plant can normalize high blood pressure. Traditional healers claim that the herb has decongestant and antacid (anti-acid) properties.
Applications of eyebright
Thanks to the rich composition of medicinal substances, alternative medicine has found use for this plant in the treatment of many diseases. It is taken in the form of infusions, teas, decoctions, lotions, baths and compresses.
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Eyebright is widely used to treat acute respiratory diseases, sore throat, bronchopneumonia and bronchial asthma. Powder from dry herbs in the form of a powder has a healing effect in the treatment of open wounds, eczema, boils, diathesis and skin tuberculosis. Eyebright powders and poultices are also effective in the fight against warts. The healing properties of the plant have been proven in the treatment of diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract. Decoctions and infusions are widely used for jaundice and allergic manifestations. Eyebright herb is effective in the fight against rheumatism and gout. It is one of the active components included in many cardiac preparations, since it contains cardiac glycosides. Traditional medicine recommends using eyebright for absent-minded attention, decreased or loss of memory. The plant has the ability to stimulate appetite.
Thanks to the rich composition of medicinal substances, alternative medicine has found use for this plant in the treatment of many diseases.
Eyebright tincture will be useful for neuralgic ailments and brain dysfunction. Useful herb helps to quickly get rid of headaches and minimize migraine symptoms.
The medicinal plant has proven itself well in cosmetology. It has a positive effect on the scalp and hair, improves blood circulation in small blood vessels, increasing the resistance of skin cells to hypoxia. Eyebright is known as a powerful remedy for fighting seborrhea and dandruff. It is a good remedy for removing redness around the eyes.
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Eyebright in ophthalmology
Eyebright is widely used to treat a wide range of eye diseases. It has been proven that it is truly an effective and beneficial medicine for the eyes. In modern pharmacology, plant extract is added to many eye medications and various dietary supplements.
Eyebright is a medicinal herb. White flowers, similar in shape to cornflowers, have a yellow spot on one of the petals. This distinctive feature will help you quickly remember what this plant looks like. In different regions of our country it also acquired local names. The most popular are eye socket and eye grass. There are others: chamomile grass, svetoche. Each of them talks about the eyes or eyes, which is clearly associated with its main purpose in homeopathy and traditional medicine - the treatment of eye diseases.
Botanical certificate
According to the description, Eyebright is a short-growing medicinal plant that belongs to the Norichnikov family. The straight, branched, red-brown stem rarely grows up to 50 cm. More often, its height fluctuates in the range of 2–20 cm. Petiolate-less, toothed, ovoid leaves are arranged in pairs. The lower ones fall off quickly, leaving the stem bare. Single flowers appear towards the top of each secondary stem. The sepals look like bells - white and pale lilac flowers open on them. The pointed, two-lipped petals have 4 teeth. The flowers also have 4 stamens. The fruit is a two-leaf capsule.
Eyebright
Pinegrass grows throughout Europe. It can be found in mountainous areas on slopes. The plant is found both in clearings and peat bogs. It begins to bloom with the arrival of summer, and the vegetative process continues until autumn.
For medicinal purposes, the upper part of the plant is collected. Dry under natural conditions, at a temperature not exceeding 40° C.
Pharmacological properties
The plant has an anti-inflammatory effect on the human body thanks to disinfectant resins and tannins. The bitter glycoside aucubin, found in its composition, acts as a barrier to the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Thanks to this component, a bactericidal effect is achieved, identical to the effect of treatment with plantain, which also contains this compound. The herb contains both essential oil and a blue coloring substance. But most of all, the plant owes its medicinal effect to iridoids (bitters).
Eyebright preparations have been used in folk medicine since ancient times to treat eye diseases. They effectively cope with inflammation:
- eye;
- lacrimal sacs.
The plant is also used to remove spots on the cornea.
Pharmacy drugs
Pharmacies sell the herb in the form of tinctures, capsules and drops.
Tincture | Eye drops | Capsules Star Eyebright |
|
Release form | Bottle 100 ml | Bottle 20 ml | Capsules - 30 pieces (2 blisters of 15 pieces) |
Compound | Active substance - eyebright | Eyebright (extract), cedar oil and resin | Eyebright herb and extract, vitamins A, B, C, rutin and zinc |
pharmachologic effect | Anti-inflammatory, tonic, astringent, analgesic, antiseptic, antiallergic. Promotes blood supply to the brain, which helps reduce eye pressure and normalize vision | Antiseptic and analgesic | The product is not a medicine, but has a regenerating and anti-inflammatory effect. The vitamin composition together with microelements normalizes the nutrition of eye tissue. Visual acuity improves. Inflammatory processes are relieved |
Indications for use for the eyes | Eye diseases: stye, conjunctivitis, fatigue, glaucoma, cataracts | Prevention of diseases of the organs of vision. Eye fatigue, for example, when working on a PC. Glaucoma, cataract | Used for inflammatory processes and eye fatigue |
Contraindications andharm | Pregnancy, breastfeeding, individual intolerance |
||
Dosage | Daily norms for oral administration: for adults - 1.5 tablespoons (0.5x3); for children 1 - 3 years old - 30 drops (10x3), 3 - 7 years old - 60 drops (20x3), 8 - 12 years old - 90 drops (30x3). Before treating children, the product must be diluted in water 50/50. When used for compresses and eye washing, the tincture is also diluted in a ratio of 1:5 | 1 drop each | Single dose for an adult - 2 pcs. |
Periodicity | Triple dose | Drip once a day before bedtime | Twice a day |
special instructions | Shake before use. Take orally on an empty stomach | Before instilling “Siberian eyebright”, the product must be warmed to body temperature | Take simultaneously with meals |
Durationtreatment | Six to eight months. An adult will need 6 bottles per course | One month | One month |
Storage conditions | Bottom shelf in the refrigerator. Keep away from children |
The drug "Stellar Lupus" is also sold in tea bags. Its pharmacological action is identical to capsules with the same name. The composition of the tea, in addition to eyebright, includes plants: elderberry, chamomile and calendula.
In order for plant-based products to be beneficial, you must read and follow the instructions for use.
Folk recipes
To treat vision pathologies, infusions are prepared from dry raw materials. Taken internally and externally as lotions and rinses. The juice is squeezed out of a fresh plant. The plant is also infused with dry wine. This tincture is taken internally and applied as a lotion to the eyes.
For myopia, the following ingredients are taken: eyebright and cornflowers 50 g each, honey and Cahors 600 g each, as well as 200 g of ground aloe vera. The components are first thoroughly mixed, left for three days, then boiled over low heat for about an hour. When the product has cooled, you can begin treatment. The daily norm is three tablespoons: one before meals.
To brew a daily dose of infusion for four oral doses, you will need:
- boiling water - 2 cups.
- dry collection - 1.5 tbsp. l.
The same product is also used for lotions - filter into a cup, moisten a clean bandage folded 3-4 times, and apply to closed eyes. It is also used for instillation. Only for this the infusion must be turned into a decoction, that is, brought to a boil. Then you need to carefully filter it. It is recommended to instill during the day, 2-3 times, 2-3 drops in each eye.
An alcoholic tincture of eyebright treats glaucoma and inhibits the development of cataracts. Take the medicine internally. For preparation you will need vodka and herbs, taken in a ratio of 5:1. Leave in the dark for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally. The daily norm for an adult is two teaspoons. To treat children over 12 years old, take 10 to 20 drops and reduce the alcohol concentration by 2 times, diluting with water. When properly stored (in a dark place), the medicinal properties are retained for five years.
To treat eye diseases, it is useful to take dry eyebright powder orally along with compresses. Take it on the tip of a teaspoon three times a day.
The use of herbs has become a real salvation in homeopathic veterinary medicine. Preparations for the treatment of eyes in animals are used externally: with the help of rinses and lotions.
Which can be found along road lines, in meadows, in high mountain areas, steppe parts and near lowland peatlands. The grass stems reach a height of 40 cm, and small flowers are located at the top and have a pale purple color and a yellow center, reminiscent of a half-opened chamomile.
The healing properties of the herb are due to the presence of a large number of microelements in the composition:
- silicon
- iron
In addition, eyebright is rich in essential and fatty oils, resins, tannins and coumarins. Thanks to such a rich composition, this medicinal herb acts on the body as a sedative, antiseptic, hypotensive and astringent. Glycosides in the herb stimulate the heart and constrict the walls of blood vessels, increasing blood pressure.
Methods of use and healing properties
- asthma
- runny nose
- bronchitis
- eye diseases
- rhinitis
- angina
- eczema
- dermatitis
In addition, eyebright is effective for memory impairment, absent-mindedness, neuroses and epilepsy. In laboratory conditions, it has been proven that the use of the plant can slow down the decline in vision and normalize eye pressure. In many eye drops you can find eyebright extract in the list of main active ingredients.
Eyebright is no less effective as a powder for treating skin diseases and for healing wounds. Regular consumption of tea and water infusions stimulates and starts metabolic processes in the body.
Directions for use:
- The powder is used as a powder to eliminate dermatitis, warts, open wounds, pustules and abscesses. Using the powder internally normalizes digestion, prevents liver destruction and increases concentration.
- Tea from the leaves of the plant is used to treat inflammation of the vocal cords, asthma, sore throat and bronchitis.
- Alcohol extract is used internally to lower blood pressure, improve vision, memory and increase concentration.
- effective for lotions, eye drops and rinses. Washing your hair with a weak decoction can stop hair loss, accelerate hair growth, and eliminate dryness and dandruff.
Preparation of preparations at home and storage rules
The part of the plant that grows above the ground has medicinal properties. It is necessary to collect during the flowering period (August-September are the months of full ripening). After collection, the leaves, flowers and stems are washed and dried in the fresh air under shelters or in a warm, dry room. You can also use special dryers at low temperatures (up to 40 degrees).
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The dried plant is ground into powder or finely chopped, depending on the method of further use.
High humidity and proximity to other plants reduce the beneficial properties of eyebright, so it should be stored in tightly closed boxes made of thick paper, in dry, ventilated areas at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and dampness. A pantry or kitchen cabinet is suitable for this.
Alcohol tinctures for oral use should be stored in a dark glass container on the refrigerator door, shaking from time to time.
Decoctions can only be used in freshly prepared form - storage in the refrigerator reduces the beneficial properties.
Contraindications and side effects
Before using eyebright for medicinal purposes, you should take into account the individual characteristics of the body and remember the possible consequences of unconventional treatment. For example, a decoction of herbs in water increases blood pressure, so its use is contraindicated for hypertensive patients, for whom it would be more beneficial to take an alcohol tincture. There are also a number of restrictions:
- Ages up to three years
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Hypotension – plant extract tends to constrict blood vessels
- Individual intolerance
- Hypersensitivity to plant components
- Low stomach acid
- Chronic gastritis with low acidity
The use of herbs for the treatment of vision organs is considered a controversial issue. Despite what it has in this area, self-medication without medical supervision can lead to deterioration of the patient’s vision and general well-being.
Otherwise, it is a harmless plant that has no side effects and does not harm the body.
Recipes
There are several options for preparing medicinal mixtures depending on the disease and method of treatment: powder, decoction or extract.
Benefits for the eyes
Eyebright has a wide range of uses for the treatment of eye diseases - from relieving ordinary fatigue after reading or a day at work, to such serious ailments as glaucoma or cataracts. It is also used to maintain vision and for the following purposes:
- slowing down age-related vision changes
- decreased eye pressure
- improvement of visual adaptation when changing light intensity
- improved visual acuity
- eye and eyelid
Only freshly prepared tinctures and decoctions that have not previously been stored in the refrigerator are suitable for external use. Before use, they must be cooled to room temperature and strained thoroughly. Rinsing begins from the inner corner of the eye, gradually moving to the inner corner.
Keep your hands, cotton swabs and pipettes clean to prevent infection from getting into your eyes.
Universal recipes
Tinctures prepared using one of the methods described below are drunk instead of tea to improve vision and normalize digestion.
Option 1: pour a tablespoon of powder into a glass of boiling water and drink twice a day.
Option 2: 4 teaspoons of crushed flowers are poured into two glasses of water and boiled for 10 minutes. The cooled liquid is filtered and taken before meals four times a day, half a glass.
Option 3: Grind the herb to a powder and take three grams orally three times a day with 50 ml of boiled milk.
Alcohol extract
Alcohol tincture is an excellent antiseptic that is used in the treatment of warts and eczema.
100 grams of dry herb are poured with 500 ml of alcohol and left in a cool, dark place for a week. The finished extract can be stored in the refrigerator for five years - during this time it will not lose its beneficial properties. The extract bottle must be shaken thoroughly before use. Take twenty drops twice a day before meals. This method of treatment is suitable only for adults; it is not recommended for children under 16. For better absorption, drink the tincture with plenty of water.
Respiratory treatment
Elimination of nicotine addiction
To quit smoking, you need to gargle three times a day with a tincture of 50 grams of dry herb and a liter of water.
Elimination of dandruff, seborrhea and baldness
Washing the eyes and using baths for preventive purposes several times a day can be done for 1-1.5 months. If the eye disease is serious, these procedures should include eye drops and oral tinctures.
Despite all the beneficial properties of eyebright, doctors do not advise taking it as a panacea for all diseases and ignoring traditional medicine. This is especially true for serious ophthalmological diseases: cataracts, glaucoma, blepharitis, etc. The doctor may prescribe the use of eye drops based on eyebright as an additional treatment, in parallel with the main one. Ignoring such serious problems as eye pressure, trachoma, spots on the cornea and attempts to heal them exclusively can lead to rapid progression of the disease and deterioration of the patient’s condition.
There are often cases when improper eye treatment at home with eyebright led to the opposite effect - a sharp deterioration in vision. This is explained by the fact that ophthalmological diseases require an integrated approach, and the use of eyebright does not take into account the specifics of concomitant diseases and complications during treatment.
Despite the controversial
- glycosides (aucuban), coumarins and anthocyanins;
- flavonoids, tannins;
- bitterness, essential and fatty oils;
- resins and tannins;
- some aromatic acids;
- vitamins B, A and C.
- anti-inflammatory;
- painkillers;
- antispasmodic;
- calming;
- enveloping;
- antibacterial.
- with inflammatory processes of the conjunctiva and optic nerve, reduces redness, lacrimation, relieves swelling and itching;
- with eye fatigue after prolonged strain;
- with high light sensitivity of the organ of vision;
- with age-related changes.
- improve intestinal motility and normalize stool;
- cure catarrh of the stomach and colon;
- alleviate the condition of gastritis, accompanied by an increased level of acidity, enterocolitis;
- restore appetite, the absence of which is caused by diseases of the digestive system.
- tonsillitis;
- cough with sputum difficult to clear;
- inflammation of the vocal cords;
- bronchitis and asthma.
- 10 g of dry eyebright is poured into a glass of freshly boiled water and left for 3 hours. Take 1/2 cup 3 times a day.
- 2 teaspoons of dry eyebright are placed in a container with 250 ml of cold water, put on fire and brought to a boil. After the solution has cooled, filter and use for external use.
- 40 g of dry herb are placed in a liter of boiling water and left to infuse for 3 hours. The resulting solution is filtered and used for instillation, eye washing, compresses and lotions.
- 50 g of dry herb is poured into 200 ml of 70% alcohol and left for 10 days in a dark place at a temperature of 20 - 25°C. Shake the solution once every 2 days. The alcohol tincture can be stored for 5 years and used to relieve burning, dryness, eye fatigue, treat cataracts and glaucoma, and maintain visual acuity.
- In pharmacies you can buy eyebright extract, convenient for preparing infusions.
- Eyebright HerbNature’s Way capsules containing eyebright extract are considered a popular remedy for improving vision.
- Eyebright HerbBilberry Ginkgo Complex Plus Lutein dietary supplement based on eyebright and blueberries.
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Description and appearance
The genus Eyebright belongs to the Broomrapaceae family and includes about 200 species of annual plants growing in meadows, along roadsides and fields, in wastelands, in steppes and light forests, on dry slopes of rivers and ravines. In Russia it grows almost everywhere.
Most representatives of the genus are medicinal plants, which have been used by humanity for a long time to get rid of various ailments. Eyebright is especially famous. It has a wide range of therapeutic effects, including use in the treatment of eye diseases. This is what people call it - “eye grass”.
Eyebright is a small (10-15 cm) herbaceous plant with a straight, branching from the middle and slightly pubescent shoot of dark brown shades.
Leaves: small, oppositely located, sessile, rounded-ovate, toothed.
Flowers: small, two-lipped, white or purple in color with a rounded yellow spot on the lower lip and blue veins. Flowering lasts all summer and autumn.
Fruits: small dry hairy capsules filled with brown seeds.
Procurement of raw materials
Flowering shoots and leaves are used for medicinal purposes.
The collected parts of the plant are dried using devices or devices that can heat up and maintain a constant temperature of 40°C. If there are none, the shoots can be dried in the open air, under canopies or in a dry, warm and well-ventilated room.
The dried parts of the plant are crushed and stored in thick paper packaging or in well-closed jars in a dry place. Collected eyebright shoots retain their healing properties for one year.
Chemical composition
The terrestrial parts of eyebright are rich in important organic compounds:
These substances provide high biological activity of the plant. The composition of the “eye grass” includes a large number of micro- and macroelements: iron, chromium, magnesium, silicon, zinc, boron and manganese.
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Beneficial features
The chemical composition of the plant determines its healing properties. Eyebright has the following actions:
Being a small plant with an inconspicuous appearance, this plant is a real storehouse of substances useful to humans.
Eyebright for the eyes
The main healing specialization of eyebright is the treatment of eye diseases of various origins in adults and children.
The plant successfully copes:
With long-term use, the herb improves visual acuity.
Eyebright treats serious diseases such as myopia and farsightedness, cataracts and glaucoma.
Other healing properties
Eyebright is widely used for healing the digestive tract and allows:
Teas, decoctions and infusions from this plant are good for the prevention and treatment of influenza, colds, and respiratory diseases:
Compresses, baths and lotions from eyebright can get rid of diathesis, rashes, eczema and dermatitis.
Infusions are used in cosmetology. They promote hair growth and improve its structure. This is an excellent effective anti-dandruff remedy.
Traditional medicine recipes
Aqueous and alcoholic solutions are prepared from the resulting raw materials for internal and external use.
Aqueous decoctions of universal use:
Infusions for eye treatment:
Alcohol tinctures of eyebright have a hypotensive effect. Water drinks increase blood pressure.
Use in pharmacology
Modern pharmacology uses the healing properties of the eye herb. It is included in some medications and dietary supplements:
Contraindications for use: stomach diseases accompanied by low acidity, pregnancy and childhood.
Eyebright is an effective remedy for treating many diseases. However, it is worth remembering that only with an integrated approach to treatment and on the recommendation of a doctor, this plant can bring maximum benefit.
The medicinal plant eyebright is famous throughout Europe and in some Asian countries as a powerful remedy for a number of diseases. It is highly valued, as it has a pronounced therapeutic effect for diseases of the eyes, stomach, and skin. There are several varieties of this herb, but not all of them are equally beneficial. To harness the healing power of a plant, it is important to know what it looks like, what exactly it does, and how to use it correctly.
Chemical composition
The Austrian scientist R. Wettstein was the first to identify the type of eyebright in 1896. But this plant is still an object of interest to scientists. Practice shows that it has a powerful therapeutic potential, which to this day has not been fully studied. But even the information that science has already managed to obtain is enough to know the characteristics of the chemical composition of plant materials and its effect on the human body. Through analysis and research, scientists were able to find out that the grass contains the following components:
- glycosides;
- essential oils;
- flavonoids;
- lignan;
- aucubin;
- catallol;
- tannins;
- bitterness;
- anthocyanins;
- coumarins;
- zinc;
- manganese;
- copper;
- iron;
- potassium;
- silicon;
- chromium;
- organic acids.
This list of substances in combination has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, cleanses blood vessels and strengthens them. Due to the synergy effect, the total effect of all components is higher than each one individually. Therefore, it is precisely this set of components and their high concentration that provides a pronounced therapeutic effect. This allows the herb to be used in complex therapy of chronic and acute diseases.
What it looks like and where it grows
Eyebright is a representative of the genus Eyebright, family Broomrapaceae. This species has pronounced medicinal properties and is widely used for the treatment of various diseases. This herbaceous plant has an annual development cycle and reproduces by seeds. Botanical characteristics:
- maximum plant height – up to 20 cm;
- leafy stems;
- leaves are rich green in color with a jagged edge, small;
- inflorescences are asymmetrical, axillary, milky-white with a yellow core.
After flowering, small seed-bearing fruits are formed. Flowering dates do not always coincide in different regions. In Russia, the plant is widespread in all regions, but in the southern part the flowering phase is activated at the end of June, and in the northern part you can admire the opened inflorescences and begin collecting raw materials only in August. You need to look for eyebright in fields, on the edges of forests; it grows and other plant species survive along paths in plantings and groves.
You can grow eyebright at home, but to do this you need to collect the seeds in time, when they are well ripe. In the middle zone this happens around the first half of September. The seeds should be left in the freezer for the winter, where they will undergo stratification and get rid of possible diseases that infect many wild plants.
Collection and storage
The collection of plant materials must be carried out strictly according to the rules. Failure to take precautions or delays in harvesting will result in the grass being useless or even dangerous. Here are the basic rules regarding collection:
- It is strictly prohibited to cut plants along highways and industrial facilities, as they accumulate harmful and carcinogenic toxins.
- Collection must be carried out in the morning in sunny weather, as soon as the dew has dried on the grass.
- To harvest grass, you need to use only clean containers and work with gloves, since you cannot wash the raw materials before drying.
Eyebright begins to bloom in the second half of summer. The optimal time for collecting raw materials is August. You can also cut the grass in September, but you need to choose the weather conditions that are as pleasant as possible. It is important that there is no rain for 5-6 days before harvesting. Here are step-by-step instructions for preparation:
- Cut off the above-ground part of the plant, without roots.
- Place in small bundles and tie with natural wool or cotton thread.
- Tie the inflorescences down in the attic or under a canopy so that the raw materials dry out.
- Make sure that the grass is not exposed to direct sunlight and there is no high humidity.
Chop the completely dried grass with scissors and place it in a dry container for storage. To preserve the healing properties and aroma of the plant, it is necessary to seal the container hermetically. Glass and tin jars are well suited for these purposes. It is not advisable to use plastic and fabric bags for storage. In synthetic containers, plant materials can absorb toxic substances, and in fabric they will evaporate essential oils and become less effective for treatment.
You can also wait until flowering ends and collect the seeds. Oil is prepared from them, which is used in cosmetology and the treatment of skin diseases. The seeds can be steamed with boiling water and drunk for gastritis, colitis, stomach ulcers and flatulence. They accumulate fats and fatty acids, which stimulate tissue regeneration and heal wounds. Also, these components help strengthen and restore the nervous system after stress and great emotional or mental stress.
Maximum storage time is 2 years. In order to preserve all the valuable properties of the grass over such a long period, it is important to organize suitable conditions:
- There should be nothing in the room that gives off a strong odor.
- Medicinal raw materials should be stored in a warm place where there are no frequent temperature changes.
- It is important to protect the grass from direct sunlight.
Properly collected and harvested herb has a pronounced healing effect. To get the maximum benefit from its use, it is important to know in what situations it helps overcome health problems. Listed below are the beneficial properties of this plant that science has been able to identify to date.
- The anti-inflammatory effect is pronounced both externally and internally. Thanks to the presence of flavonoids and coumarins, herbal remedies soothe and relieve inflammation in infectious diseases and allergic reactions.
- The antibacterial effect is expressed only when applied topically. The herb is effective in combating skin infections caused by pathogenic microflora. Also, when taken orally, the infusion of the herb destroys Helicobacter (a bacterium that causes gastritis) and some types of intestinal infections.
- The hypotonic effect is used to lower blood pressure in hypertension.
- The diuretic effect is used to quickly remove excess fluid from the body, as well as to cleanse the kidneys.
- The choleretic properties of the herb are due to the presence of bitterness in its composition. This feature is used for congestion in the liver and gall bladder.
- The antitussive effect of eyebright is used for ARVI, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Infusion and tea from the herb thins mucus and speeds up its elimination.
- The hepatoprotective effect of eyebright is known even to traditional medicine, so the herb is recommended for use in preparations for chronic liver diseases. It stimulates the regeneration of hepatocytes (liver cells), normalizes metabolism, and prevents the development of cirrhosis in viral hepatitis.
- A mild laxative effect will help to quickly cleanse the intestines, normalize the digestion process and remove accumulated toxins from the body.
- Eyebright normalizes the secretion of enzymes necessary for complete digestion and absorption of food, so it is used immediately before meals.
- Eyebright helps cope with nicotine addiction and is used to further cleanse the lungs of tars and heavy metals that accumulate in the body over many years of bad habit.
- The soothing effect of eyebright is also used for sore and tired eyes. The complex of biologically active components helps with the presence of boils and inflammation of the mucous membrane. In addition, eyebright, when used internally, normalizes the functioning of the optic nerve and muscles, strengthens the eyeball and lens, due to which vision can be restored.
As you can see, eyebright is a powerful natural remedy that can support the body, stimulate its recovery, and also provide protection against various diseases.
Eyebright is recognized as one of the most effective plants for diseases of the eyes, respiratory system and digestive tract. It can be used alone or supplemented with other varieties of medicinal plants to enhance the effect. For different diseases, the treatment regimen, recipes, as well as the combination of herbs with other ingredients differ.
For eye diseases
Eyebright is also popularly called “eye grass”, as it helps to cope with diseases that affect this part of the body. Important rules of use:
- make sure there is no allergic reaction;
- Before use, treat your hands with an antiseptic;
- For compresses, use only a sterile bandage.
The infusion for compresses is prepared in a clean container from 200 ml of water and 1 tablespoon of herbs. In case of inflammation of the mucous membrane, redness and fatigue, cold compresses should be applied. If your eyes are affected by a bacterial infection, you can use a warm infusion. The compress is applied for 10 minutes, 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is from 2 to 8 weeks.
To enhance the effect of topical use, it is recommended to use eyebright tea internally, ½ cup 3 times a day. You can prepare drops for wetting and washing the eyes according to this recipe:
- 1 teaspoon chamomile;
- a pinch of fennel seeds;
- 1 tablespoon eyebright;
- 200 ml boiling water.
Pour in the herb mixture and leave with the lid closed until it cools completely. Use the liquid to wash the eyes with a syringe. You can simply wipe your eyelids with a cotton pad soaked in the infusion 4-5 times a day.
For gastritis and colitis
Stomach diseases can be treated with alcohol or vodka tincture of the herb. The dosage differs depending on the type of product:
- for alcohol – 20 drops 3 times a day for 3 weeks;
- on vodka – 30 ml 3 times a day for 1 month.
The medication is taken strictly 10–15 minutes before meals. It is necessary to combine treatment with dietary nutrition - avoid sour, fried, spicy and fatty foods.
For hepatitis
Eyebright is effective against viral and toxic hepatitis, but only at those stages when liver function is completely preserved. Relevant for minor liver dysfunction. If acute hepatitis develops, it is necessary to stop taking it for a while, as there is a risk of worsening the condition. Once remission is achieved, treatment can be resumed. For the treatment of hepatitis, a 6-month regimen is used:
- Take ½ teaspoon of eyebright powder three times daily for 2 months.
- 1 month break.
- Take 50 ml of infusion twice for 2 months.
- A single dose of water infusion in a volume of 50 ml for the remaining 30 days.
2 months after completion of the first stage, it is necessary to undergo diagnostics to determine how the drug works, undergo an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, and also perform a biochemical blood test.
Hepatitis is a chronic disease with a sluggish inflammatory process, so you should not rely only on grass. It must be used in combination with the main therapy as an adjuvant.
For diseases of the bronchi and lungs
For chronic bronchitis, pneumonia and persistent cough, a decoction is used for inhalation and oral administration. To prepare a decoction, you need to take 2 tablespoons of the herb and pour 500 ml of cold water. Boil under a closed lid over low heat; when it boils, wait 3 minutes and turn off. Breathe the steam of the infusion 3 times a day, but do not go out into cold air for 2 hours after the procedure. Therefore, to cure a cough, you need to plan your time correctly.
You need to take the same decoction internally, but drink it in small portions - 40 ml, every 3-4 hours. During the treatment period, it is advisable to avoid contact with cold air and be sure to drink plenty of fluids to thin the mucus.
Bronchial asthma is a dangerous condition in which any herbal remedy can cause a severe allergic reaction, including swelling of the larynx, which can lead to respiratory arrest. It is also dangerous to use the herb for bronchospasm. Eyebright is effective for such conditions, but before use you need to do an allergy test and consult your doctor.
For skin diseases
Skin infectious or allergic dermatitis, furunculosis and inflammation are most effectively treated topically. To do this, you can use a decoction of eyebright. There are three types of procedures using this medicinal raw material that are effective in treating skin diseases:
- wiping;
- compresses;
- baths.
In the presence of a pronounced, acute inflammatory process or boils, prolonged contact with moisture is contraindicated, so it is better to use an alcohol tincture or wipe with a water decoction. If there are long-term non-healing ulcers, irritation and mild inflammation, you can take baths with an infusion of herbs - 100 grams per 3 liters of water.
For nicotine addiction
Due to its ability to affect the human nervous system, the herb can be used by those who want to quit smoking. But it is important to understand that this is not a panacea. Eyebright only helps to normalize the condition during the period of withdrawal and cope with the obsessive desire to return to the addiction.
To treat smoking addiction, a strong infusion of eyebright is used in its pure form; it cannot be diluted with water. An infusion is prepared from 250 ml of boiling water and 3 tablespoons of herbs. You need to drink it 1 tablespoon before meals for 3 weeks. During this time, the body will cleanse itself and the desire to smoke will pass.
To achieve maximum effect, you can use a mixture of two herbs:
- thyme (inflorescences);
- eyebright.
You need to mix plant materials in equal proportions, brew in the same concentration - 3 tablespoons per 250 ml. Infuse and strain, store in the refrigerator. Drink for 3-4 weeks. It is also important to avoid temptations and not have contact with people who smoke during treatment. If during the day there is a strong desire to smoke a cigarette, you should chew a pinch of dry herb powder.
Application in cosmetology
The abilities of eyebright have been known to women since ancient times. In the old days, there was not a large amount of caring cosmetics for the beauty of skin and hair, so the ancestors had to use exclusively the power of nature. Eyebright can still help you look attractive today if you use it to take care of your appearance. This herb can solve the following problems:
- pimples, acne;
- peeling and inflammation of the skin;
- enlarged and clogged pores;
- loss of skin elasticity;
- dandruff;
- baldness;
- weakening of the hair follicle;
- slow hair growth;
- rosacea
To harness the power of this herb, there are several classic recipes and uses that you can use.
- For acne, it is useful to use a decoction of eyebright to wipe the face every 4-5 hours. During treatment you need to give up decorative cosmetics.
- Peeling of the skin and a tendency to inflammation are best treated with eyebright oil ointment. You need to infuse 3 tablespoons of the raw material in olive oil for 21 days, then decant and apply 2 times a day.
- If the pores are clogged, you should steam your face with an infusion of the herb, and then wipe it with a cotton pad soaked in an alcohol tincture. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a week.
- There are two ways to restore healthy skin turgor. Wipe your face 2 times a day with ice cubes made from a strong infusion of herbs. Instead of ice, you can simply use chilled liquid, applying it to the skin with a cotton pad.
- For dandruff, use an infusion to rinse your hair. You need to prepare it immediately before use - take 2 tablespoons of raw material for 1 liter of boiling water and leave for 30 minutes. Use every evening for 2 weeks.
- You can stop hair loss using a mask of 1 tablespoon of honey, the same volume of castor oil and 30 drops of alcohol tincture. Leave the mask on for 1 hour, repeat every 3 days. The same recipe is effective in weakening the hair follicle, for treating dull and damaged hair.
- To stimulate hair growth and make it healthier, you need to use the following mask: 1 teaspoon of turmeric, egg yolk, 30 drops of infusion, 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Rub into hair roots and leave for 20 minutes, repeat every other day.
- For rosacea, using cold compresses from the infusion is effective. You need to apply a bandage soaked in water broth for 10-15 minutes every evening for 30 days.
All these recipes are equally good, but only if the person is not allergic to the plant or other components of the medicine. Otherwise, they will only harm your health, appearance and create additional problems that are not always easy to eliminate.
You can prepare medicines from eyebright at home. To do this you need to know basic recipes and proportions. Otherwise, the medicines will be too strong or will not have the required concentration of active substances. You should not experiment with your health; it is better to choose classic recipes for the preparation of medicinal compositions, time-tested and proven to be safe and effective.
Infusion
An aqueous infusion is a liquid dosage form that contains up to 40–50% of active ingredients from plant materials. In this form, it can be taken by absolutely everyone, even those who have been diagnosed with liver disease (if such problems are present, the use of alcohol and vodka tinctures is strictly contraindicated).
The recipe is simple and quick - brew 1 teaspoon (heaped) of vegetable raw materials with a cup of boiling water, cover the vessel with a lid. The preparation time for this product is 30 minutes. After this, take a fine sieve or gauze, strain the liquid so that there are no residual raw materials in it, and divide the resulting medicine into 3 portions. This infusion should be prepared daily and stored throughout the day in the refrigerator. Bring liquid to room temperature before use. The infusion helps with the following pathologies:
- fatty liver disease (course of 21 days together with diet);
- psoriasis (3 courses for one and a half weeks with a break of 2-3 days);
- allergic skin reactions - externally for wiping and compresses 2-3 times a day;
- gastritis (for 7–10 days before each meal, 50 ml);
- inflammation of the eyes (compresses 2 times a day).
The infusion can be prepared in a thermos. The proportions must be observed - take 1 teaspoon of herb for a 200 ml cup. That is, if the thermos is 0.5 liters, then you need to pour 2.5 teaspoons of raw materials into it.
Tincture
Alcohol tincture is a type of medicine in which it is possible to extract a maximum of valuable substances from raw materials, up to 80%. Alcohol is an organic solvent that breaks down the components of the herb at the molecular level, therefore, for the treatment of severe diseases that require an increased dosage of active substances, it is best to use an alcohol tincture.
Here's what you need to prepare this type of medicine:
- 200 ml medical alcohol;
- 2 tablespoons of medicinal dry raw materials;
- dark glass bottle with a sealed cap.
You need to pour the grass into a container, add alcohol and leave in a dark place for 2 weeks, shaking every 3 days. After this, there is nothing useful left in the plant material, so the tincture must be strained into a clean container and closed. Drink 20 drops before each meal, but the course should not last longer than 30 days. This tincture can be stored for no longer than 2 years, but if sediment appears during use, you need to settle the liquid and carefully strain through several layers of gauze or a cotton filter.
Decoction
The decoction can be prepared immediately for 3 days if there is a need for regular use. But you need to know how to prepare it correctly so as not to spoil the raw materials. The fact is that the herb contains substances that quickly disappear with the evaporation of the liquid. Therefore, you need to prepare the decoction strictly under a closed lid and insist in the same way. The decoction is stored in the refrigerator in a closed bottle. Do not use it if there is an unpleasant odor. The maximum shelf life is 4–5 days.
Tea
You can also prepare aromatic tea from the herb, which has a delicate taste and aroma. This is the safest type of medicine, since the concentration of active substances is quite low. The duration of tea treatment is from 10 days to 2 months. This dosage form is effective for the following diseases:
- Chronical bronchitis;
- angina;
- ARVI;
- pneumonia;
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
- hypertension;
- swelling;
- cholecystitis.
Tea is prepared from ½ spoon of raw material, which must be poured with boiling water and infused for 3-5 minutes. You can boil vegetable raw materials. Tea for colds, viral and bacterial infections can be taken with honey, lemon and grated ginger root to enhance the effect. Rules for using tea:
- quantity – 150 ml per dose;
- time – 15 minutes before meals;
- Frequency of use: 3–5 times a day.
It is important to combine tea with drinking plenty of fluids, as it has a pronounced diuretic effect. Loss of fluid during illness is dangerous for the body, as homeostasis and water-salt balance are disrupted, and toxins accumulate in the body.
Pharmaceutical preparations based on eyebright
The pharmaceutical industry has been using eyebright plant extracts as the main component for drugs for decades.
- Blueberry-F is a means for restoring vision, which combines extracts of two medicinal plants. Blueberries complement the properties of eyebright.
- Eyebright in capsules is a drug that is designed for long-term treatment of eye diseases and helps restore vision in case of myopia.
- Faurin - eye drops used for conjunctivitis and infectious eye diseases.
- Star eyebright - capsules in which the herb extract is supplemented with vitamins that restore vision.
Any eye medications can only be used as prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication is dangerous and fraught with negative consequences for the entire body. Before using pharmaceutical products, you need to study the instructions in detail and pay attention to the list of contraindications - they are different for each drug, since auxiliary components are used.
Contraindications for use
If you use herbal remedies or pharmaceutical preparations based on eyebright incorrectly, you can harm your health. Therefore, it is important to know in what cases the use of this herb is contraindicated.
- Pregnancy is a period when it is better to refrain from taking internal medications and herbal remedies. The plant can be used externally, but only with the permission of a doctor.
- Breastfeeding is one of the stages when it is better to completely eliminate the use of plant materials and eyebright preparations. The fact is that the active components that make up the herb are able to penetrate into mother’s milk, and with it into the child’s body. This is dangerous due to severe allergic reactions and other negative consequences.
- If gastritis with low acidity is detected, this is also a reason to refuse to take herbal remedies internally. It further inhibits the secretion of gastric juice, which can cause disruptions in food digestion and pain.
- Hypotension is another categorical contraindication. The use of medications or home remedies that contain eyebright can dramatically reduce blood pressure, which can even cause cardiac dysfunction and fainting.
- An exacerbation of cholelithiasis, accompanied by blockage of the bile ducts, is also a reason to stop taking the herb. The fact is that the components of the plant stimulate the secretion of bile, and if the ducts are blocked, it cannot exit normally, which is dangerous due to rupture of the bladder and peritonitis.
- An allergic reaction or hypersensitivity to plant raw materials is also a reason to refuse to use it. To identify the presence of an allergy, it is enough to test herbal-based products on an area of sensitive skin on the wrist - apply and wait 30-40 minutes. If the skin becomes red or itchy, such medications should not be used.
The use of eyebright in pediatric practice is also prohibited for patients under three years of age. For older children, eyebright-based remedies can be used externally, but only after consultation with a pediatrician and a specialist in herbal medicine.
Eyebright is a medicinal plant for many diseases. If you use it correctly, in the absence of contraindications, you can significantly speed up the body’s recovery process and protect it from the negative consequences of diseases.
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