115-2 
syrup.* Euphragia is not mentioned in the Schola Salernitana, compiled about 
1100. ‘The earliest notice of Euphrasia, as a medicine, is in the works of Tragus.+ 
It was employed as a remedy in diseases of the eyes, by Fuschius, Dodonzus, 
Haller, and others, and has been a vulgar remedy in these diseases from time 
immemorial, throughout the whole of Europe. Fuschius recommended it in suf- 
fusions and cataracts. The Highlanders, of Scotland, make an infusion of it in 
milk, and anoint the patient’s eyes with a feather dipped in it. Hoffman employed 
it in jaundice; Villanova and Velebt, in weakness of the eyes. In 1836, Krameh- 
feldt employed it, with success, in rheumatic and catarrhal inflammat'on of the 
eyes and their lids; in cough, hoarseness, earache, and headache, which have suc- 
ceeded catarrhal affections; and glandulous, catarrhal, and scrofulous blephar- 
ophthalmia.§ 
Woodville says:|| “ Euphrasia derives its name from its reputed efficacy in vari- 
ous disorders of the eyes, for which it was used both externally and internally, and 
has long been so much celebrated as to be considered almost in the character of a 
specific, the ‘verwm oculorum solamen.’ But as there cannot possibly be a general 
remedy for all diseases of the eyes, the absurd and indiscriminate recommendation 
of Euphrasia as such, must receive but little credit from those who practice medi- 
cine on rational principles. It must be acknowledged, however, that some authors 
have stated peculiar complaints of the eyes, in which the use of this plant was 
thought more remarkably evident; and, judging by these, we should say that eyes, 
weakened by long-continued exertion, and those that are dim and watery, as ina 
senile state, are the cases in which Euphrasia promises most advantage; nor are 
old people to despair, for according to Hildanus and Lanzonus, several, at the age 
of seventy and eighty years, were recovered from almost entire blindness.” He 
further remarks that the Icelanders are in the constant habit of using the juice of 
the plant in all affections of the eyes; and adds that, « though the great reputation 
which Eyebright formerly supported for several ages, must have induced some 
practitioners to have used it; yet we do not find a single instance of its efficacy 
recorded in modern times. How far this remark ought to invalidate the positive 
testimonies in its favor, we leave others to determine.” 
Dr. John King remarks that four fluid ounces of the infusi 
: on morning and 
night, upon an empty stomach, has cured epilepsy. 
PART USED AND PREPARATION. — The whole fresh flowering plant, 
above the root, gathered from barren, sunny spots, should be treated as directed 
for Verbascum, Scrophularia, and Chelone (ante, pp. 110-2, 112-2, 11 3-2). The 
resulting tincture has a deep brownish-red color by transmitted light; a pleasant, 
vinous odor; a bitter, astringent taste; and an acid reaction. 
CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS.—Luphrasia-Tannic Acid, C,H, O,,.— This 
peculiar tannin gives a dark-green precipitate with ferric salts, and is only obtain- 
able by combination with lead. It is precipitable by glue, and tar 
on eee trate of antimony 
(Wittstein). 
* Allston, Mat. Med., 7, 139. { Ozann’s Fournal, 
+ Sprengel, op. cit. \| Med. Bot., 2, 369. 
@ Hamilton, Alor, Hom., as 278: Am, Disp., loc. cit. 
