Euphrasia Officinalis

Euphrasia officinalis, commonly known as eyebright, is a small, semi-parasitic annual herb native to Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of Asia. It belongs to the family Orobanchaceae and is characterized by its square stems, opposite leaves, and small white or purple flowers with yellow centers. The plant typically grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands, often attaching itself to the roots of grasses and other plants to obtain nutrients. Traditionally, eyebright has been used in herbal medicine to treat various eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis, due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. In Hebrew, it is known as עין-הפרש (ayin-haparash), while in German, it is called Augentrost, and in French, Euphraise officinale. The genus name Euphrasia is derived from the Greek word euphrosyne, meaning "merriment" or "good cheer," possibly referring to the plant's historical use in treating eye conditions that improve vision and, consequently, mood.