Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is an annual herb that is common to dry fields and pasture lands in its native Britain and also in the U.S.

In ancient Greece, Eyebright was believed to be a gift from the goddess Euphrosyne, one of the three Graces. It was associated with joy, clarity, and improved vision. In European folklore, Eyebright was considered a magical herb associated with the fairy realm. It was believed to have the power to reveal hidden truths and provide protection against evil spirits.

Magically, eyebright symbolizes clarity, perception, and the ability to see beyond the surface. It is associated with enhanced vision, both in the physical and metaphorical sense.

It's magickal correspondents are: air, the sun, and Leo. It is named after one of the three Charities of the Hellenic Pantheon, Euphrosyne, Goddess of Joy and Mirth. It is also associated with the Tower Tarot card.

Magickal Uses:

Enhancing perception and intuition. It can be used in rituals or spells aimed at increasing clarity, insight, and the ability to see the truth in a situation.
Used in rituals or offerings to connect with the fairy realm and seek their guidance or blessings.
Protective spells or charms to ward off negative energies or enhance psychic protection. It is also believed to aid in divination practices and accessing higher realms of consciousness.

Healing Attributes:

For external eye irritations and inflammations, and to reduce general puffiness and dark circles, use milk instead of water and apply to the eyelids and surrounding area with a cotton ball.
Anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, making it useful in relieving symptoms associated with allergies, such as itchy and watery eyes.
Alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions like colds, sinusitis, and hay fever.

Eyebright can also be smoked to help relieve chronic bronchial inflammation. Eyebright tea may be drunk as needed for general allergy symptoms, dry coughs and sinus infections. This is also said to enhance memory function.

Health Warnings:

Dimming of eyesight can result from prolonged use, or use of strong concentrations of eyebright.

None of the traditional uses of eyebright have ever been officially studied.

Because the safety of eyebright’s use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, it is best avoided during these times.