Scientific Name: Euphrasia officinalis
Constituents:
- Iridoid glycosides (aucubin, aucuboside, catalpol, euphroside, ixoroside)
- Flavonoids (apigenin & glycosides)
- Phenolic acids (caffeic & ferulic) & Tannins (Condensed & hydrolysable)
- Volatile oils
- Bitter principle
- Alkaloids
- Carbohydrates (arabinose, glucose, galactose) & Fatty Acids
- Resin
- Phytosterols (b-sitosterol, stigmasterol)
- Vitamins C & b-carotene
- Amino acids (lycine, leucine & valine)
Medicinal actions:
- Anticatarrhal
- Astringent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Laxative (Stimulant)
Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:
- Limited information available regarding constituents and pharmacology.
- Combines astringent and anti-inflammatory actions to produce an overall anti-catarrhal action and mucous membrane toxifying effect.
- Tannins have astringent properties which are likely responsible for usefulness as a topical treatment for inflammatory states and ability to reduce mucous and phlegm.
- Caffeic acid is bacteriostatic & iridoid glycosides (aucubin) have activity against hepatitis B in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated hepatoprotective, anti-tumor, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Volatile oils that are antibacterial against Miccrococus aureus, E. coli, some fungi and other microbes.
Pharmacy:
- Infusion
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Topical Compress
Safety & Toxicity Concerns:
- Caution should be be applied for any home-made preparations used for ophthalmic purposes (e.g. eye wash).
- Due to reported presence of unidentified alkaloids, avoid excessive doses or prolonged treatment, and in pregnancy & lactation due to unknown effects.
Interactions:
- None known.
