Traditional Uses

• Eyestrain
• Immune system stimulant
• Hay fever, colds, coughs, congestion, and sore throats

Mode of Action

• No single constituent of the herb has been identified that would possess the therapeutic properties to explain the method of action

Drug Interactions

• Do not use with the acne product tretinoin; may adversely affect the skin

Cautions

• The tannin in eyebright may decrease the antibiotic activity of echinacea.
• The tannin in eyebright tea may be inactivated by the addition of milk or cream
• Application to the eyes is strongly discouraged
• 10-60 drops of tincture can cause toxic symptoms: confusion, dim vision, headache, light sensitivity, crying, swelling and redness of eye lids, weakness, sweating, excessive urination

Recommended Dose

• 200 mg three times per day. (Dose may vary from brand to brand)

References

• Balch, 1990; Nutriceutica, 1998; Smith & Boon, 1997; Tyler, 1993