Euphrasia officinalisEuphrasia officinalis (Eyebright) – The German Commission E Monographs lists uses of Eyebright which include inflamed eyes, coughs, colds and catarrh (inflammation of mucous membrane). It is useful if an allergic response is the basis for sinusitis (Clinical Botanical Medicine, pg 209). E. officinalis contains Iridiode monoterpenes, lignans, flavonoids and tannins, some alkaloids, glycosides, sterols and volatile oils. E. officinalis is often used for allergic conditions affecting the eyes, middle ear, sinuses and nasal passages. The astringent qualities of this herb protect the mucous membranes of the eyes, thereby reducing the inflammation seen in allergic reactions that occur with hay fever or air pollution.