Eyebright for Dogs

Main Constituents

• glycosides
• phenolic acid
• tannins
• resins
• volatile oil

Medicinal Activities

• anti-inflammatory
• astringent
• anticatarrhal
• expectorant

Common Uses in Dogs

This herb tightens the mucous membranes of the eye and is therefore most effective for treating eye problems, in particular, chronic inflammation, stinging and weeping eyes, and photosensitive eyes.

Due to the herb's ability to counter mucous, it is also often used to treat allergic conditions affecting the eyes, middle ear, sinuses, and nasal passages.

It can be taken internally as a tea or tincture, or used externally as an eyewash or compress.

Availability

Various preparations of the herb (such as tincture, water infusion) are available at health food stores. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).