Eye Bright

Light Conditions:

• Full Sun:
  Place Eye Bright in a location that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
• Partial Shade:
  In our climate, Eye Bright may grow well with 3 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, primarily morning sun
• Eye Bright thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
• Relocate Eye Bright to an area with more shade if leaves are consistently scorched by the sun.

 

Soil:

• Plant in well-draining soil.
• Eye Bright can tolerate various soil types, but it prefers sandy or loamy soil with good drainage.
• The plant has been reported to grow from sea-level up to 1000 metres near rivers, lakes, fallow rice fields and roadsides, and on waste lands, anthropogenic habitats, fields, pastures, and even periodically desiccating pools and ditches.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as grass clippings and wood chips) around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.

Watering Frequency:

• Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Once established, Eye Bright is relatively drought-tolerant, but it will perform best with consistent moisture.

Amendments and Fertiliser:

• Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertiliser during the growing season to support healthy growth and flowering. Follow the instructions on the fertiliser packaging for the appropriate dosage.
• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil at planting time to enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pruning and Maintenance:

• Prune the plant regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage bushier growth.
• Deadheading spent flowers can also promote continuous blooming.

Pest and Disease Control:

• Pest Monitoring:
  Monitor the plant for common pests such as aphids, spider mites and whiteflies. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
• Disease Prevention:
  Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf spots and mildew.

Propagation:

• Seed Propagation:
  Eye Bright can be easily propagated from seeds. Sow seeds directly in the garden in a well-prepared bed, or start them indoors and transplant seedlings once they are large enough to handle.
• Cuttings:
  You can also propagate Eye Bright from cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy plants, remove the lower leaves and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist until roots develop.

Eye Bright contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties. Here are the key constituents:

• Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids:
  These include Indicine (known for its potential anticancer properties, but also associated with hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) if ingested in large amounts over time) and Echinatine (another pyrrolizidine alkaloid with similar properties and risks).
• Flavonoids:
  These include Quercetin (a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation) and Kaempferol (another antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health and has anti-inflammatory properties).
• Saponins:
  These compounds possess antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, which can help in fighting infections and enhancing overall health.
• Tannins:
  Tannins have astringent properties, which can help in wound healing by promoting tissue contraction and reducing bleeding.
• Phenolic Acids:
  These include Caffeic Acid (an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects) and Chlorogenic Acid (known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps in regulating blood sugar levels).
• Essential Oils:
  These contribute to the plant’s aromatic properties and may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

While Eye Bright has various bioactive compounds that provide medicinal benefits, it is important to use the plant responsibly. Some of these compounds, particularly the pyrrolizidine alkaloids, can be toxic if consumed in large quantities or over prolonged periods. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using this plant for medicinal purposes to ensure safe and effective use.

Eye Bright is a versatile and valuable plant with a wide range of medicinal uses, making it a worthwhile addition to any garden.

 

Entire Plant -

Eye Bright enhances your garden’s beauty with its charming, fragrant flowers while also contributing to a healthy and sustainable environment. It attracts pollinators, creates habitats, prevents soil erosion and provides natural medicinal resources. Making a decoction made from the entire plant, combined with other herbs like St. John’s Bush and Minnieroot, can relieve menstrual pains, induce abortion and assist in cleaning the womb after a miscarriage. Additionally, a decoction of Eye Bright and Shandilay is effective for addressing bedwetting, highlighting the plant’s versatility.

 

Leaves -

The leaves of Eye Bright are particularly renowned for their wound-healing properties. When crushed into a paste, they can be applied topically to cuts, sores and ulcers, promoting faster healing and reducing inflammation. This natural remedy is especially useful for treating minor injuries and skin irritations. The leaves are also traditionally used to prepare herbal teas and infusions that help alleviate respiratory conditions such as fevers, coughs, colds and bronchitis. Their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties soothe the respiratory tract and reduce symptoms. Moreover, the leaves are beneficial for digestive health, offering relief from indigestion and diarrhoea when used in an infusion. They have also been used to manage conditions like arthritis and rheumatism, providing a natural remedy for joint and muscle discomfort.

 

Flowers -

The flowers of Eye Bright, in combination with the leaves, can be used to make herbal teas and infusions that alleviate respiratory issues, including fevers, coughs, colds and bronchitis. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the flowers make them effective in soothing the respiratory tract and easing symptoms, offering a gentle yet powerful remedy for common ailments.

 

Preparation Methods:

• Poultice:
  Crush fresh leaves to make a paste. Apply the paste directly to wounds, sores, or inflamed areas and cover with a clean cloth or bandage.
• Infusion/Tea:
  Steep a handful of dried or fresh leaves and flowers in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink the liquid to treat respiratory and digestive issues.
• Decoction:
  Boil the leaves (and flowers, if desired) in water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink the decoction to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and lower fever.

While Eye Bright offers various medicinal benefits, it is essential to use the plant responsibly and consult with a healthcare provider before using it for medicinal purposes. This ensures safe and effective use, especially since some heliotrope species contain toxic alkaloids that can be harmful if ingested in large quantities or over prolonged periods.

Soil Improvement -

As a hardy and adaptable plant, Eye Bright helps prevent soil erosion with its extensive root system. It also contributes to soil fertility by adding organic matter as it decomposes, improving soil structure and health.

 

Pollinator Attraction -

The fragrant flowers of Eye Bright attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies (such as Glasswing Butterfly (Greta Oto) and Tiger Butterfly) and other beneficial insects, enhancing pollination in your garden and supporting local biodiversity.

Eye Bright contains certain compounds that can be toxic, especially if consumed in large quantities or over extended periods. Here are the key points regarding its toxicity:

• Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs) -
  These include Indicine and Echinatine (these are the primary pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Eye Bright. While they have potential medicinal benefits, they are also known for their hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity)). PAs can cause liver damage if ingested in significant amounts. They can lead to conditions such as hepatic veno-occlusive disease, which can be severe and potentially fatal. Long-term exposure to PAs is associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly liver cancer, due to their mutagenic properties.
• Internal Use -
  Due to the presence of PAs, internal use of Eye Bright is not recommended without professional supervision. This includes consuming teas, tinctures or other preparations made from the plant. Symptoms of PA poisoning can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Severe cases can lead to liver failure.
• Topical Use -
  Using Eye Bright topically (on the skin) is generally considered safer than internal use. The plant’s leaves can be applied as a poultice for wound healing and inflammation. However, even topical use should be approached with caution, especially on broken skin, to prevent any absorption of toxic compounds.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding -
  Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using Eye Bright due to the risk of toxicity to the foetus or infant.
• Dosage and Duration -
  If using the plant medicinally, it is crucial to limit the dosage and duration of use to minimise the risk of toxicity. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential.

 

In summary, while Eye Bright has various medicinal properties, it must be used with caution due to the presence of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Always seek professional medical advice before using this plant for any medicinal purposes to ensure safe and appropriate use.