Eyebright commonly is used in European folk medicine for blepharitis and conjunctivitis, as well as for a poultice for styes and the general management of eye fatigue.
The use of this herb for eye problems likely stemmed, in part, from the Doctrine of Signatures, a 16th century theory that held that a plant’s appearance pointed to the ailments for which it was to be used. John Gerard was aware of its properties; and Culpeper was so enthusiastic about the plant that he stated “If the herb was as much used as neglected, it would half spoil the spectable-makers’ trade”.