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Eyebright Side Effects

Eyebright is an herbal supplement, derived from the plant Euphrasia officinalis. Available in standardized extracts, tinctures, tea and capsules, eyebright is used as an alternative remedy for many conditions, including eyelid inflammation, sties, conjunctivitis (pink eye) and eye strain. People also use it for nasal and sinus congestion, coughing and hoarseness.

  1. Research

    • There is little scientific data on the effectiveness of eyebright, but none of the chemical components are associated with a significant beneficial effect. One study by Stoss et al., published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in December 2000, looked at the use of single-dose eyebright eye drops with 65 people experiencing conjunctivitis. Effectiveness and tolerability were evaluated by the patients and doctors and indicated "good" to "very good" in over 85 percent of the participants.

    Regulatory Agencies

    • The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated eyebright supplements for safety or purity, so people should be especially cautious about using the substance as a topical remedy for eye problems. No serious negative reactions or side effects to eyebright have been reported, but the lack of research and regulation has led regulatory agencies such as the FDA and the German Commission E to advise against its use.

    Eye Side Effects

    • The Healthline website notes that eyebright tincture has been associated with eye itching, redness, pressure and swelling, as well as vision changes and light intolerance. People should not use eyebright in the eyes if wearing contact lenses or if they have had recent eye surgery.

    Other Side Effects

    • In the 1996 book "Herbal Medicines," Carol A. Newall and other authors recommend using eyebright with caution because little is known about toxicity levels. They state that using over 10 drops of eyebright tincture can cause confusion, constipation, coughing, difficulty breathing, insomnia, nausea, perspiration, restlessness, sneezing and weakness in addition to the eye side effects.

    Allergic Reactions

    • People should always be watchful for an allergic reaction when using herbal remedies. Although these reactions are rare, symptoms include difficulty breathing, throat closing, facial swelling, rash or hives.

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