In the realm of herbal medicine, Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) stands out as a time-honoured remedy, particularly renowned for its affinity with eye health. But did you know that this humble herb offers more than meets the eye? Eyebright has been used for centuries to address a range of ailments, and today, it's gaining recognition for its potential to ease the symptoms of hayfever.
Eyebright has a rich history rooted in traditional European medicine. Its use dates back to the Middle Ages when it was employed to treat various eye disorders, hence its common name. The herb is native to Europe and belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. With delicate white flowers tinged with purple and yellow, Eyebright has long been associated with clear vision and vibrant health.​
Eyebright
Euphrasia officinalis
.png)
Additionally, those with severe allergies should be cautious, as herbal remedies can sometimes cause allergic reactions.
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is a versatile herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for eye health. Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties make it an excellent natural remedy for hayfever, offering relief from itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and respiratory symptoms. Whether you're sipping it as a tea, applying it as a compress, or using it in homeopathic eye drops, Eyebright can be a valuable addition to your natural health toolkit.
References:
Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments. DK.
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices Of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press.
_edited.jpg)
Garlic
Garlic, is commonly associated with cooking, however, it also has roots (or perhaps bulbs 😊) in herbal medicine. Historically Garlic was used by physicians and herbalists of the ancient world primarily as an antiseptic, as well as being used as an antidote for poisonous bites – (maybe there’s something to the legend of Vampires and Garlic 😉). Traditionally it was also used to expel intestinal parasites and was considered a carminative for digestive problems such as diarrhea, primarily when caused by bacterial, fungal and viral infections.
​
​
Today your Naturopath or Herbalist may include Garlic in your health formulation for a wide variety of reasons. As Garlic is a potent circulatory stimulant, it may assist with cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, optimising cholesterol levels or arterial vascular disease. Or to aid digestive conditions such as small intestinal bacteria overgrowth, dysentery, stomach ulcers. Garlic may also be called upon to help relieve respiratory conditions such as catarrhal conditions, colds, influenza, bronchial congestion, asthma, or even to help with fungal and bacterial infections.
​
The compounds alliin & allicin are primarily responsible for the effects of Garlic. Alliin is converted by allinase to alliicin when chopped, crushed and exposed to air (oxidised).
​
Garlic in higher than culinary doses my adversely interact with some medications. Always seek advice from a suitably qualified Naturopath.
Allium sativum
Rosemary
.png)
Rosmarinus officinalis
This woody herb has been revered for thousands of years for is affinity for memory. Ancient Greek and Roman scholars would often be seen adorned with garlands of rosemary on their heads while studying and even Shakespeare’s Hamlet makes mention of Rosemary for remembrance, pray and love. Today we still follow these traditions with sprigs rosemary used on ANZAC in honour and memory of fallen service personnel.
​
Rosemary has been revered for thousands of years for is affinity for memory. Ancient Greek and Roman scholars would often be seen adorned with garlands of rosemary on their heads while studying and even Shakespeare’s Hamlet makes mention of Rosemary for remembrance, pray and love. Today we still follow these traditions with sprigs rosemary used on ANZAC in honour and memory of fallen service personnel.
​
Interestingly that many of the traditional uses of Rosemary are finding place with modern science. A 2018 Study n Rosemary found that it is able to help boos memory, reduce anxiety and improved sleep. Traditionally Rosemary is often used for indigestion and gastrointestinal complaints. The bitter constituents help to aid in stimulating appetite and digestive secretions.
Helping stimulate blood flow rosemary also aids in not only helping to relive inflammation and muscle tension but is also helpful in relieving headaches and migraines. This amazing brain tonic is also able to help boost mood and increase concentration, while calming anxiety.
​
Consuming rosemary in higher than culinary doses my adversely interact with some medications. Always seek advice from a suitably qualified Naturopath.
Andographis
.png)
More commonly associated with traditional medicine frameworks of Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Andrographis is a shrubby herb found throughout Southeast Asia.
​
Today in Western Herbal medicine Andographis is used it as a bitter tonic (trust me – It's bitter!) hence, it is often referred to as the king of bitters. This makes Andrographis an ideal digestive aid, however, it also possesses immunostimulant actions making it perfect for winter and the onset of a cold or flus.
​
Commonly practitioners will consider Andrographis for acute illness helping relief from upper respiratory infections including cold and flu, pharyngitis, tonsilitis and even COVID-19. Helping to improve general well-being and immune function and optimally prevent cold and flu.
​
The bitter compounds help boost digestive function increasing appetite and overall digestion as well as enhancing liver function.
​
Whenever considering taking a herbal supplement it is always advised to seek advice from a trained practitioner who can evaluate your personal health and recommended a product which is right for you.