Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) has been used traditionally in Western herbalism for conditions affecting the eyes, sinuses, and upper respiratory tract. Its use for supporting the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx and help regulate ear pressure, is based primarily on traditional herbal practices rather than scientific validation. Historically, herbalists have recommended eyebright for catarrhal states—meaning excessive mucus production—of the upper respiratory tract, such as sinusitis, rhinitis, and sometimes ear congestion. The rationale is that reducing inflammation and mucus in the upper respiratory passages may indirectly support Eustachian tube function. However, clinical studies directly examining the effects of eyebright on the Eustachian tubes or middle ear health are lacking. The majority of research on eyebright focuses on its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties in relation to eye and nasal health, not specifically the Eustachian tubes. Thus, while its traditional use for respiratory and sinus conditions may tangentially relate to Eustachian tube support, there is minimal direct evidence—scientific or historical—specifically for this body system. The evidence is therefore rated low.

More about Eyebright
More about Eustachian Tubes

Other ingredients that support Eustachian Tubes

Other body systems supported by Eyebright

Products containing Eyebright