Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)
Flowers: July to September. Height: 20 cm (8in).
The poet Milton mentions this plant in his book Paradise Lost (1667) in which Archangel Michael gives Eyebright to Adam to cure an eye infection.
Medicinal: Used since the Middle Ages as an eyewash for infection or inflammation of the eye. The dried herb was often combined with tobacco and smoked to provide relief for bronchial colds.
Culinary: During the time of Queen Elizabeth, Eyebright ale was popular.
Doctrine of Signatures: It has small white flowers with red spots resembling bloodshot eyes, suggesting the plant’s name and its eye-clearing action.
